Demonstrating vast experience in a broad range of education law matters, such as acting for children with Special Educational Needs in judicial reviews and tribunals, the Bindmans LLP education law practice also acts in discrimination, safeguarding and free speech cases within the education sector, as well as acting for clients in admissions, exclusions and education transport cases. Karen May heads the team, specialising in judicial review and tribunal cases and is praised as ‘a real leader in the field’. Other key members of the team are John Halford with a focus on judicial reviews and litigation; crime, fraud and regulatory partner Kate Goold who is reputed for her extradition work, and Alex Temple who ’is clearly the next big thing in education law’.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The team was amazing. As a parent who has felt like the system let my child down my faith was restored by the team at Bindmans. They endured my son was at the heart of every decision whilst also ensuring the law was followed. Everything was made clear, and I was kept informed throughout the whole process.’

  • ‘Karen May is kind, professional, respectful and amazing at her job. You can tell she’s passionate about her profession and ensures that you as a parent of a SEN/ disabled child are informed thoroughly of the whole process. Her communication is amazing and I felt heard and that my child would finally receive the education he was entitled to. I am extremely happy and thankful for the help and support we received.’

  • ‘Bindmans has a well-respected education practice. They know how to make successful applications for legal aid. They are tenacious on behalf of their clients, but more realistic than many claimant-only firms. Knowledge on the law and the system. I consistently recommend Bindmans to individuals looking for education solicitors.’

  • ‘Karen May is a real leader in the field. Wonderful with clients and a terrific negotiator of settlements- she achieves great results for her clients.'

  • 'Alex Temple is clearly the next big thing in education law. Very articulate, he was the standout presenter at the Legal Action Group Education Law Conference. He acts in complex judicial reviews, particularly concerning the Equality Act 2010, school exclusions and higher education issues. A real standout performer.’
  • ‘Bindmans has excellent cross-sector expertise and resources in order to assist counsel focus on the key issues. On each occasion I have worked with them the relationship between counsel and solicitors has been collaborative and fruitful.’

  • ‘Emma Vardey was exceptional - a real pleasure to work with. Highly competent and collegiate.’

  • ‘Karen May is a tremendous lawyer and really cares about her clients.'

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Karen May

Other key lawyers

John Halford, Kate Goold, Alex Temple