Journey to law
Having studied French at university Harriet was looking for a career which would open up a wide variety of opportunities and challenges. She found this in law, and later specifically in employment law as a trainee in the early 2000s. It was an area which was rapidly developing and therefore constantly interesting. Harriet was also immediately drawn to the human aspect of employment law. As an employment lawyer she can help not only businesses and organisations navigate their way through what can be a minefield, but also make a very real and valuable difference to people’s lives.
Harriet has over 20 years’ experience as an employment adviser to both employers and employees. Her clients range from large international banks, hotels and charities to senior directors, teachers and managers. Harriet’s significant experience acting for individuals gives her a valuable insight into both sides of an issue. She believes in finding creative solutions to problems to avoid protracted disputes. Harriet provides clear, pragmatic and sensitive advice. Her clients have also described her as down to earth, responsive and an innate problem solver.
Harriet sits on the Employment Lawyers Association training committee and has spoken on many areas of employment law including pregnancy and maternity discrimination, managing sickness absence and the strategic aspects of running discrimination claims. She has provided media commentary on topical employment law issues and co-authored the book ‘Employment law practice: strategies for success’.
Jones Chase was recommended by a close friend and I worked with Harriet to manage my exit from the company post a merger. Harriet’s advice was informative, balanced and valuable throughout the process, including final negotiations where she helped achieve a positive out come for me. I would highly recommend working with her to anyone needing employment law advice and support.
I would have no hesitation in recommending JonesChase to any company or individual needing the services of an Employment Solicitor. From initial contact and throughout my case Harriet’s support, guidance and clear advice was first class in its efficiency and speed of turnaround. Thank you for your support in my negotiation.
Having used Harriet to help with a separation from a previous employment, obtaining support in reviewing new employment contracts is something I would heartily recommend. Harriet was able to help me identify and focus on the key issues that I should be aware of and try to negotiate with a prospective new employer. She has been invaluable in making my latest transition.
Harriet literally came to my rescue at what was unquestionably the most difficult moment of my entire professional life. I was referred to her when I had been given only a few working hours to make some very significant decisions. She dropped all she could to prioritise me and she gave me level headed advice and support. She worked quickly and thoroughly and made herself available even during her time off when critical deadlines were looming. She provided reassurance as well as reality checks, and she was empathic at a time when that seemed in short supply elsewhere. I cannot recommend her highly enough.
I was very pleased with the professionalism and quality of the advice and guidance that I received from Harriet throughout my case and would highly recommend the team at Jones Chase to anyone looking for someone to represent them in these matters.
I realised early on that many problems arise due to a lack of information and understanding on both sides. I believed, and still do, that educating all parties as to their rights and obligations would help them avoid and resolve disputes.
I have worked at both large and small firms during my career and believe that Jones Chase has the best aspects of all of these. I am able to make a real difference as an individual lawyer at the firm and have the flexibility needed to make home and work life compatible. There is a real team feel and people are looked after and valued.
Jones Chase has their clients at the front of everything and all the staff work tirelessly to achieve the best outcome possible for them. This is coupled with a genuine desire to make the firm a happy place to work.
What gets me out of bed in the morning is knowing that no two days are the same. The work is fast paced and incredibly interesting. I relish the challenge of finding a solution to whatever lands on my desk that day.
- Cycling
- Coffee
- Children (mine, naturally)