Jake Davies

I practise in all areas of employment law, including unfair and wrongful dismissal, contractual terms, deductions from wages, TUPE and restrictive covenants. I specialise in discrimination law, including race, sex, disability, age and religion. I regularly appear for both Claimants and Respondents in the Employment Tribunals, as well as in the EAT where complex points of law are involved.

My advice at an early stage of an employment-related dispute often leads to a successful resolution of the problem without the need for litigation. I advise employees who are considering resigning, and employers faced with a potential constructive dismissal claim. I advise both sides in respect of contractual terms and grievance or appeal procedures.  

My approach

My first objective is to understand the full story and give the best advice at the relevant stage. I believe that the greatest mistake a barrister can make is to give his or her client false expectations and place him or her in a position where costs are needlessly incurred. It is important to take a realistic view of the risks of litigation and contractual negotiation. If litigation is necesssary or has already commenced, my approach is to identify and concentrate on the key factual issues and legal principles. There is no point ruining a good point with many weak ones, or taking a "kitchen sink" approach. I believe effective cross-examination is fundamental to successfully running a claim in the Employment Tribunal. A barrister should know everything a witness might say and have a full and detailed knowledge of any document a witness might rely upon. I full involve my clients in my preparation for a trial.

About me

I have practised in the field of employment law since I came to the Bar some fifteen years ago. My practice has become more and more specilaised and I now do little else apart from breach of contract claims in the High Court. I have appeared in the EAT on various occasions in the last few years, and more recently in the Court of Appeal in a high profile religious discrimination case. I live in London and am married with a child.

What my clients say

I am listed as a Leading Junior in employment law in the current issue of the Legal 500.

Professional & academic

First Class honours degree in history from Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge. CPE in law from City University. Vocational training at the Bar School.

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