Bates Wells
Bates Wells is noted for its specialist expertise in advising NGOs, as well as institutional clients in the medical and sciences spaces such as the Royal College of Nursing. Further clients in a broad range include the Kuwait Investment Office, which the firm assisted with litigation pertaining to the interplay of employment law and diplomatic immunity. Practice head Lucy McLynn is a highly experienced litigator with particular expertise in employment status matters and discrimination claims. Rachel Mathieson, promoted to partner in April 2023, is also central to the team, as is Paul Jennings.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Paul Jennings - very responsive, pragmatic and thoughtful. Considers practical business implications and is very solutions orientated.'
'Lucy McLynn - high-level solutions orientated - problem solver with positive client focus.'
‘I have been very impressed with the team's breadth of clients and sectors, both nationally and internationally. Their commitment, expertise and knowledge are second to none.’
‘Lucy McLynn is an incredibly committed, knowledgeable lead of the employment team. I value her pragmatism, commercialism, wide-ranging expertise and desire to find a solution. I can't recommend her highly enough.'
‘The team has an outstanding reputation for working with charitable organisations. Team members have an in-depth knowledge of employment law and practice, and prepare for cases in a thorough and professional way, with a particular attention to detail.’
‘Attention to detail; knowledge of the law and collegiate working are particular strengths, along with approachability.’
‘Very knowledgeable in their sector - provided our charity with much-needed assurance.’
‘Rachel Mathieson and Lucy McLynn were two great individuals who helped put our minds at rest.’
Key clients
- British Red Cross
- Royal College of Nursing
- Center for Global Development
- UNICEF
- 118 Group
- The Science Museum
- Royal College of Psychiatrists
- Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO)
- Genesis Technology
- Glencar Construction Ltd
Work highlights
- Acting for the Center for Global Development in an ongoing case concerning the conflict between gender-critical beliefs and trans inclusion.
- Acts for the Kuwait Investment Office (the world’s oldest sovereign wealth fund) in complex litigation about its status in the UK, and whether it is subject to the jurisdiction of the English courts, including Employment Tribunal decisions.
- Advises UNICEF on all day-to-day employment issues.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Lucy McLynn