Forbes Solicitors assists FE colleges, multi-academy trusts, academies, maintained schools, and independent schools on the full range of issues impacting educational establishments. Jonathan Holden is the national head of the department and has particular experience in advising educational institutions and public sector clients; he is also an expert in the Local Government Pension Scheme. Key members of the Lancashire-based team are Ruth Rule-Mullen, who specialises in employment law; Gemma Duxbury, who handles the creation of academy trusts; Catherine Kennedy, who is the key contact for property matters in relation to education; and Stephen McArdle, who supports clients in litigation. In Manchester, Laura McHugh is a key contact for public sector clients.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘What sets Ruth Rule-Mullen and Forbes Solicitors apart is their comprehensive understanding of both Employment Law and the practical challenges faced by academies and school trusts. Under Ruth's leadership, the education team at Forbes Solicitors demonstrates a commitment to staying ahead of the curve in employment law and education policy developments, ensuring that clients receive accurate and up-to-date advice tailored to their specific needs.’
‘We have the privilege of working closely with Ruth Rule-Mullen who is flexible and offers us unwavering legal and employment support, enabling us to navigate even the most challenging circumstances with resilience and success.’
Key clients
- Bishop Frazer Trust
- Blackburn College
Work highlights
- Acting for Cidari Multi Academy Trust in defending claims of disability discrimination, unfair dismissal, breach of contract and personal injury, by a Deputy Head Teacher of one the schools within the 10 school trust.
- Assisting Herts for Learning Education, offering legal support for employment matters, contractual queries, procurement support and data protection issues.