A tribunal advocate through and through, Paul Wilson has over 20 years’ experience representing employers and employees in Employment Tribunals across the UK. A veteran of many appeal cases in the EAT and above, Paul is considered a ‘safe pair of hands’ for the most complex and high value tribunal claims. Paul’s expertise has been independently acknowledged by Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners respectively, having been regularly recommended over the years.
Paul’s client base is broad and varied, reflecting his all-round strength as a tribunal advocate. He regularly represents Respondent clients of all sizes, from small businesses to public authorities, NHS Health Trusts and major plcs. Paul also represents individual claimants. His particular understanding of the manufacturing, local government and health sectors also sets him apart. Paul deals with a wide and broad range of employment law issues including unfair dismissal, whistleblowing, TUPE, collective consultation and all strands of unlawful discrimination at work.
Paul also brings a rare and rounded insight from both working in-house and in industry to his clients. Formerly the In-house Counsel for Make UK (which represents UK manufacturers), and also formerly an employed barrister with (now) global law firm Squire Patton Boggs, Paul will detect the issues that might impact a claim or appeal at an early stage, as well as engage effectively with the most complex of issues. Clients commend Paul’s approachable style. Whether in picking up the phone for a quick second opinion or to vet a new claim, Paul understands the importance of building long-lasting relationships based on trust and clear communication.
With strong respondent clientele and a complementary, regular range of Claimant work, Paul’s contentious experience in the tribunals and appellate courts over more than 20 years truly sets him apart. A skilled veteran of many reported appeal cases, not to mention hundreds, if not thousands, of Tribunal claims, Paul is a firm believer in the principle of practicing only in your areas of core strength. Paul’s experience rivals his fellow leading tribunal advocates nationally – a feature independently acknowledged by directories over several years.
A sample of Paul’s relevant and leading experience in those claims and appeals includes:
Paul has considerable experience in dealing with employment law disputes when they move into the civil courts and in particular wrongful dismissal claims and applications for injunctive relief to enforce post-termination restrictive covenants.
In addition, he has the unusual “niche” experience of dealing with disputes involving Commercial Agents and with the Commercial Agents (Council Directive) Regulations 1993 – including the quantification of compensation under the regulations.
Paul’s vast experience in the tribunals has influenced his style and approach as an advocate. He appreciates the fundamental importance in considering the human side of an issue or set of proceedings. He balances this against a robust, assertive and principled approach in which he is not afraid to fight for a client’s interests to the last point, without fear or favour.
Clients regularly remark on Paul’s honest, calm and measured appraisal of the issues and wider approach to dispute resolution. His incisive style cuts through the issues in even the most complex and factually dense cases.
A truly focused employment tribunal and appeals specialist, Paul’s understanding of employment law and procedure ensures that tribunal litigation in which he is involved will proceed on a sure footing. He regularly delivers training, seminars and conference sessions on tribunal/ appeals practice and procedure.
Employment Law Bar Association
Employment Lawyers’ Association
Industrial Law Society
“Paul is a strategic lawyer with a vast knowledge of employment law. He is great at managing clients and explaining the strengths and weaknesses of claims and defences clearly and concisely. He is excellent at cross-examining witnesses.” Legal 500 2024
“Paul is able to grapple with complex areas of law and relay this to clients constructively and concisely. He works tirelessly to achieve great results and is always on hand to help and give advice.” Legal 500 2023
Paul Wilson successfully defends Trent College against religious belief discrimination
“Managing Litigants in Person” Employment Law Seminar
New High Court ruling regarding Debenhams furloughed employees
Paul Wilson re-joins St Philips Employment Group
English