Employment
UK Guide 2025 : North East
Band 2
Enhance your profile
Build a stand out Profile to get your rankings recognised by legal buyers
Learn moreDiscover other firms ranked in Employment
Chambers Review
Collingwood Legal is a specialist employment firm that houses an experienced team of employment experts. It is able to advise on all types of issues faced by employers, including collective redundancies, restructurings and TUPE matters. It is also noted for its expertise in equality, diversity and discrimination issues as well as whistle-blowing claims. The firm advises both employers and senior executive individuals.
"It has a great ability to simplify complex issues down to the key fundamentals to navigate toward a resolution. Between them, I don't think there is anything that they haven't handled."
"Any support we need is managed by the most qualified and experienced person, with back up from other members of the team as required."
"Collingwood Legal provides me with confidence, clear advice and good support when dealing with difficult employment issues. The team knows and understands its clients' needs."
"Clearly expert in its field. We have never been unsupported or left without guidance or help to resolve a matter. The firm is very flexible and responsive."
"Collingwood Legal's service levels simply could not be better. It feels like part of our team."
Collingwood Legal advised a multi-academy education trust on matters relating to voluntary trade unionrecognition.
Paul McGowan is the managing partner of Collingwood Legal. His employment practice covers the full span of workplace issues, as he is frequently sought out to advise clients faced with litigation matters, as well as non-contentious issues. "Paul has built up an excellent business and is very professional and attentive to his clients, building trust and strong relationships." "Paul is a highly regarded, very experienced practitioner. He's super responsive, on the ball, very knowledgeable and really dependable. He's my go-to for complex, unexpected, novel situations." "Paul has excellent knowledge and is responsive, clear and astute." "I have always found Paul to be exceptional."
Paul Johnstone is recognised for his disputes work, particularly due to his standout knowledge of discrimination. He is also noted for his strategic advice on matters such as TUPE, and has expertise on trade unions. "I appreciate that Paul is direct and pragmatic." "A brilliant lawyer with a wealth of experience and knowledge. He is flexible, responsive and willing to help at anytime. He has had a huge influence on our practice. I could not rate Paul higher." "Paul is a street fighter and a real grafter." "Paul Johnstone is outstanding."
Charlotte McBride has expertise in a wide range of employment law matters, including TUPE, unfair dismissal and discrimination claims. She also has experience in independent investigations. "Charlotte provides a very good professional service and understands our needs, tailoring the support we require." "I cannot fault Charlotte on anything. She is very professional and approachable." "Charlotte is excellent and her knowledge and customer service is superb."