A Valuable Insight: Chadwick Lawrence Hosts Mock Tribunal

Navigating the complexities of employment law can be daunting for HR professionals. To bridge the gap between theory and practice, Chadwick Lawrence recently hosted a mock tribunal. Attendees learned about the complexities of determining whether conditions like menopause constitute a disability.

Held at Weetwood Hall Estate, Leeds, the mock tribunal offered a unique chance for attendees to gain first hand experience of tribunal procedures and decision-making.

Chadwick Lawrence hold value in hosting mock tribunals as it offers the chance to reflect their commitment to equipping businesses and professionals with the knowledge to handle legal challenges effectively.

This particular event delved into the case of Denise Barker v. Dawson Accountants Limited, a fictional yet realistic scenario designed to replicate the high-stakes environment of a genuine tribunal.

The anatomy of a tribunal

Participants observed every stage of the tribunal process, from opening statements to witness cross-examinations and closing submissions. The session was led by seasoned employment law experts, Sam Pawson, Sunnia Khaliq, Bethan Brooke, Madeleine Partland, Oliver Newton, Carol Gledhill, Adele Guest, Jack Oldroyd, Diarmuid Bunting, Tom Wood, Kashif Ali and Ellie Jones.

The team played the roles of the Employment Judge and legal representatives for both claimant and respondent. This immersive approach enabled attendees to witness first-hand how employment laws are interpreted and applied in contentious scenarios.

Key aspects explored during the mock tribunal included:

• Legal definitions of disability under the Equality Act 2010. Attendees learned about the complexities of determining whether conditions like menopause constitute a disability.
• Procedural strategies. Observers gained insights into crafting persuasive arguments, cross-examining witnesses effectively, and addressing tribunal judges’ questions.
• Practical outcomes. The tribunal demonstrated how rulings are made, shedding light on potential remedies such as compensation for injury to feelings or reinstatement.

Learning beyond the courtroom

The event wasn’t merely an academic exercise – it was a platform for professional growth. Following the tribunal, the facilitators hosted an interactive debrief, encouraging participants to discuss the outcomes, challenges, and lessons learned. This session fostered lively discussions about best practices in HR processes, including managing performance issues sensitively and making reasonable adjustments for employees with disabilities.

Attendees appreciated the hands-on approach. One HR professional remarked. “This was my first time coming to a Chadwick Lawrence tribunal and it was great to see. I learned a lot about what it would look like should a case ever get that far. It was good to receive the pack beforehand and read through so I knew the case and the people involved before the hearing started.”

Why it matters

Employment disputes can escalate quickly, often leading to reputational damage and financial loss. By hosting these events, Chadwick Lawrence empowers businesses to mitigate risks through robust HR policies and informed decision-making. These sessions also enhance the skills of future legal professionals, contributing to a stronger, more informed workforce.

As Chadwick Lawrence continues to host these invaluable mock tribunals, their commitment to fostering professional excellence remains unwavering. For HR teams and aspiring solicitors alike, such initiatives offer a rare glimpse into the realities of employment law, preparing them to face challenges with confidence and competence.

Keep an eye on our Eventbrite page for any future events.