Full Profile
Having represented both private and public sector organisations in a number of high profile tribunals throughout the UK, Stephen is regularly involved in providing strategic advice and training to clients in the local authority, transport, charity, sports and further and higher education sectors.
Chambers Guide to the Legal Profession, in ranking him in its top band of specialists since 1999, has previously described Stephen as having "a good balance between knowing the law and presenting it in a sound and not over-stated way" as well as being "able and well-prepared" and "a leading player" in relation to his employment law expertise.
Chambers has stated that Stephen, "has a very pragmatic approach, a great depth of knowledge and handles negotiations superbly." Also, he has been recognised as a leading individual by the Legal 500 and was inducted into the exclusive Legal 500 Hall of Fame in 2018 in recognition of his experience and renown in his practice area.
Stephen was the recipient of the 'Solicitors Poll - Individual' Award at The Law Awards of Scotland 2009.
Stephen served as President of the Employment Law Group from 2014 to 2019.
Stephen has been the Editor of the Pay chapter in Harvey's Industrial Relations and Employment Law since 2020.
Experience
- Institute and Faculty of Actuaries v Davda [2023] IRLR 615
- L v K [2021] SLT 897, Inner House, Court of Session (Computers; Dismissal; Indecent photographs of children; Teachers; Restricted powers of appeal tribunal to intervene)
- Baisley v South Lanarkshire Council [2017] ICR 365 (Rejection of ET1 on submission and ET discretion to accept defective claim)
- Stephen was the lead external adviser in the negotiated settlement of Glasgow City Council's equal pay liability which has a published value of £580m
- HBJ Claimants v Glasgow City Council [2017] IRLR 993 (Job Evaluation Scheme challenge) Stephen acted as junior counsel in the Inner House appeal
- Lynch -v- East Dunbartonshire Council [2010] ICR 1094 (Lis alibi pendens as a plea in the Employment Tribunal)
- Davidson v Dallas McMillan [2010] IRLR 439 (Restricted reporting orders)
- Aegon v Roberts [2009] IRLR 1042 (Unfair dismissal and pension loss)
- Cannop v Highland Council [2008] IRLR 634 CS (Equal pay and grievances)
- Highland Council v TGWU [2008] IRLR 272 EAT (Equal pay and grievances)
- McCarthy v North Lanarkshire Council [2006] no 101122/06 (No injury to feelings damages in equal pay cases)
- Dryden v Greater Glasgow Health Board [1992] IRLR 469 (Constructive dismissal)
- Reid v Camphill Engravers [1990] IRLR 268 (Unlawful deduction from earnings)
