Shoosmiths LLP

Alex joined Shoosmiths on qualification in September 2018 and has been practicing in the team ever since, gaining promotion to Senior Associate in September 2022. He acts for clients of various sizes across a range of sectors (including technology, charities and manufacturing) and is well-versed in all aspects of employment law.

Alex’s particular expertise is in Employment Tribunal litigation and has had a great deal of success in representing both employer and employee clients at the Tribunal. Alex has acted on many different types of Tribunal complaints, from simple claims for unlawful deductions from wages to complex disputes relating to whistleblowing and discrimination. Where appropriate, Alex conducts his own advocacy – recent results include successfully defending an unfair dismissal claim and demonstrating that a purported contractor was, in fact, both a worker and an employee.

Alex is not afraid to be robust when necessary and has obtained costs awards from the Tribunal in favour of his clients on several occasions. However, Alex provides pragmatic and commercial advice to clients on their best option in all the circumstances and will recommend settlement if appropriate.

Alex also uses his Tribunal litigation experience to advise organisations as to the consequences of management decisions, allowing him to give advice that is real world in its application. Clients recognise this in the very clear and calm way that Alex provides his advice. He has an unflappable style which has bought great praise from clients, impressed by his ability to distil complex concepts into readily understood advice, while at the same time remaining calm in challenging situations.

Outside of the Tribunal sphere, Alex is adept at supporting employees who have been offered a settlement agreement through what are inevitably very difficult circumstances. He has a proven track record of negotiating improved severance packages (in some cases significantly) for individual clients.