Paris Smith LLP fields a team of ‘very well-known and respected lawyers’ who are well placed to handle restrictive covenant actions, employment tribunal cases, and senior level exits. The group demonstrates considerable strength in the transport, recruitment, and education sectors, with Southampton-based practice head Clive Dobbin bringing extensive experience in complex discrimination and TUPE claims to the practice. David Roath is a specialist in business protection and director exits, while Claire Merritt routinely supports clients from the education industry with contentious issues, including restrictive covenant disputes in the High Court.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘David Roath is for me the standout practitioner in the firm. He is available most of the time and on short notice, gives clear and practical advice, is totally professional, but also approachable and helpful.’
‘There is expertise in all areas. They are quick to respond at all hours and their advice is spot on!’
‘Clive Dobbin, he is top drawer, so good on all aspects of employment law.’
‘They are the leading Solent-based law firm. Strong roots in local business have been fostered by years of high-quality work. They are expert but also have a good personal touch. A joy to work with.’
‘David Roath - calm under pressure, unflappable, excellent legal knowledge and tactical nous, great to work with.'
'Clive Dobbin - a star individual, great with clients, easy to work with, strong legal knowledge and always has a great grasp of the detail of a case, strong commercial sense.
'It employs very well-known and respected employment lawyers who have been practicing in Southampton for many years. They offer an excellent service and lend pragmatism and robust advice to all scenarios.'
‘Clive Dobbin is always accessible, shows great knowledge and I trust him implicitly to give me sound advice.’

Key clients

Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
AFC Bournemouth Limited
Hampshire Cricket (Ageas Bowl PLC)
Randstad UK
Barfoots of Botley Limited
Stannah Stairlifts Limited
Churches Fire & Security Ltd
Mayflower Theatre Trust Ltd
Keltbray Limited
Draper Tools Limited

Work highlights

Representing an NHS consultant in a tribunal claim involving whistleblowing.
Representing a company director in their exit from a national manufacturer, including advising on a subsequent settlement agreement.
Advised a local service provider on the enforcement of restrictive covenants, including representing a client in an application for injunctive relief.