Michelmores LLP remains a go-to outfit for clients in both the public and private sector, particularly those active in health, education, and retail. The Exeter-based practice handles matters ranging from high-profile tribunal litigations involving discrimination and whistleblowing to employee relations issues and corporate transactions. Lead partner James Baker is particularly well-versed in contentious employment work, while Andrew Tobey‘s areas of experience include TUPE outsourcing issues, senior executive termination, and breach of covenant injunction claims. Rachael Lloyd's capabilities extend to union-related matters, data protection, and TUPE. Bethan Jones left the firm in December 2023.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Excellent service, straight-talking team that provides accurate, concise advice.’

  • ‘Kate Gardner is by far THE BEST employment lawyer in the country in our opinion. Kate knows our business inside and out, provides us with practical operational advice and in a cost-effective manner.’

  • ‘The employment team that we work with at Michelmores are well-versed in the law, providing practical legal guidance tailored to the specific needs of our business and workforce. Rachael Lloyd is our key contact and is always extremely responsive and provides quick, clear guidance on matters when we raise them for advice.’

  • ‘Every individual that we have worked with on various matters at Michelmores has been knowledgeable, kind and helpful. Rachael Lloyd is attentive, knowledgeable, thorough and always helps us get clarity on legal questions in a timely and efficient manner.’

  • ‘Very good.’

  • ‘James Baker is exceptional.  Advice is always effective and tailored to meet the needs of the client. I could not be happier with service.’

Key clients

  • Forestry Commission
  • On-Running AG
  • Marylebone Cricket Club
  • Burrington Estates
  • Gooch and Housego plc
  • Hawksmoor Investments
  • Bandvulc Tyres
  • Wilton Bradley Retail Group
  • LiveScore Group
  • First Databank
  • Photo-Me International plc
  • British Beer & Pub Association
  • Otter Brewery Limited
  • Wild Planet Trust
  • Haynes Publishing Group plc
  • Relyon Beds Limited
  • Mint Velvet
  • Greenslade Taylor Hunt
  • South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust

Work highlights

  • Acted for the client on an unlawful deductions from wages claim that arose out of a TUPE transfer.
  • Instructed to defend South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust against claims of race discrimination and sexual and racial harassment.
  • Advised Greenslade Taylor Hunt on the dismissal of a long-serving employee relating to widespread bullying and harassment allegations.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

James Baker

Other key lawyers

Andrew Tobey, Rachael Lloyd, Matt Warren, Siobhan Murphy, Kate Gardner