Two Saddleworth solicitors achieve Legal 500 status

Oldham law firm Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd has once again been recognised as a ‘Leading Firm’ in the 2025 edition of The Legal 500.

The firm’s employment department, co-led by joint heads Alan Lewis and Susan Mayall, has been acknowledged in this prestigious legal guide for the second consecutive year.

The Legal 500 is a prominent publication that assesses law firms and individual lawyers through a rigorous research programme, identifying the top performers across 150 jurisdictions and various practice areas.

Notably, Pearson is one of only six firms in the entire northwest to be ranked for services to both employees and employers.

The employment team has experienced an unprecedented level of growth in the last 12 months, and now has five specialist employment law solicitors, two paralegals and five legal assistants.

Saddleworth-based Alan and Susan have again been named ‘Recommended Lawyers’, with Lewis distinguished as a ‘Leading Partner’ - a title he has held for several years.

The Legal 500 describes a Leading Partner (formerly known as Leading Individual) as “the strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.”

Highlights from the Legal 500 commentary:

Comprehensive Expertise: Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers in Manchester offers unique legal and financial advice to employee clients, covering the full spectrum of employment matters.

Extensive Representation: The team has significant experience representing employees in group actions, handling executive termination negotiations, disciplinary matters, and advising on restrictive covenants.

Leadership in Employment Law: Alan Lewis specialises in disputes involving directors and senior executives, while Susan Mayall offers broad expertise across various employment issues, including discrimination and TUPE cases.

Since joining the firm in 2022, Alan has expanded the employment team by recruiting nine additional fee earners and support staff, emphasising the firm’s commitment to providing high-quality legal support and investing in technology to enhance service delivery.

He said: “Achieving a high ranking in The Legal 500, which is based on direct client feedback and the opinions of other members of the legal community, truly reflects our high standing in the legal profession.

"The Legal 500 is the leading directory of law firms in the UK and Susan and I feel immensely proud of all members of our team who have contributed to this ranking.”

Notable work highlights:

Representing numerous employees affected by the collapses of Axiom Ince and Metamorph Law in claims for protective awards.

Successfully acting for a director of a Big Four bank in claims for unfair dismissal and breach of contract, achieving re-engagement with full back pay and substantial compensation.

Providing ongoing employment law advice to approximately 60 employer clients on various issues impacting their businesses.

Assisting an HR consultancy with disputes involving restrictive covenants against former and current employees.

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