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Averta Employment Lawyers Recognised Again in Chambers UK 2026
Averta Employment Lawyers has once again been recognised as a leading firm in the Chambers UK 2026 directory, maintaining its long-standing reputation as a top employment law practice for its work advising senior executives, directors and professionals, as well as providing strategic advice to SMEs and owner-managed businesses.
The directory describes Averta as “a really strong boutique practice with some of the most experienced and respected practitioners.”
Chambers highlights the firm’s particular expertise in settlement agreements, restrictive covenant disputes, harassment and discrimination claims, and its skill in negotiating exit strategies for senior executives. The team is also noted for its experience with pensions issues, whistle-blowing claims, and redundancies.
Client feedback in the 2026 guide includes:
“They distinguish themselves by having a core offering, enabling them to be masterful at what they do. I would always recommend Averta because they have integrity and they care about every case.”
“The team at Averta made me feel comfortable and at ease at one of the most stressful times in my career and this distinguished them above all others in this industry.”
“Averta gave sensible and level-headed advice that helped me make the right decision in negotiations. They were always available.”
Founding partners Alan Jones and David Sykes were both individually ranked once again. Chambers notes:
“Alan Jones advises executive-level employees on a full suite of matters including discrimination, wrongful termination, and breach of contract claims. He is particularly skilled at negotiating termination packages.”
“David Sykes has a broad practice representing employees across the full spectrum of employment law. He acts for individuals facing redundancy, handles whistle-blowing claims and advises senior executives on contract negotiations.”
Consultant Martin Chitty was also recognised as a Senior Statesperson:
“Commended for his work providing HR and in-house legal teams with employment support on corporate transactions. He also offers advice on day-to-day employment issues, as well as litigation.”
Commenting on the recognition, Alan Jones, co-founder of Averta Employment Lawyers, said:
“We are delighted to once again be recognised by Chambers for the quality of our work and the trust our clients place in us. This ranking reflects the team’s continued focus on supporting individuals through some of the most challenging moments in their professional lives.”
David Sykes, co-founder, added:
“Chambers remains one of the most respected guides in our profession, and it is always rewarding to see client feedback reflected in the rankings. We’re proud that Averta continues to stand out as a firm that combines experience with a personal, pragmatic approach.”
Partner Andrew Lester commented:
“Averta’s strength lies in the depth of its experience and the genuine care we show to our clients. The recognition from Chambers reinforces the importance of the work we do in helping individuals navigate complex employment issues with confidence and clarity.”
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About Averta Employment Lawyers
Averta Employment Lawyers LLP is an employment law firm based in Solihull, specialising in advising senior executives, directors, and professionals. Established in 2005, the firm has built a national reputation for providing practical, strategic advice on employment law issues including settlement agreements, contractual matters, and discrimination claims.
For further information, please visit www.averta.com
or follow Averta on LinkedIn
Averta Employment Lawyers ranked in Legal 500 2026
Boutique employment firm once again recognised in Tier 2 in the West Midlands for employment law expertise
Solihull, 2 October 2025 – Averta Employment Lawyers LLP has again been recognised as a leading employment law practice in the 2026 edition of the Legal 500 rankings, securing a Tier 2 position for its work advising senior executives, directors and professionals, as well as providing strategic advice to SMEs and owner-managed businesses.
The Legal 500 guide highlights Averta’s expertise in handling complex employment issues, including exit negotiations, settlement agreements and discrimination claims. The firm is also noted for its advice on contracts and service agreements for senior appointments.
Legal 500 focuses on the firm’s “highly experienced” partners Alan Jones and David Sykes, recognising their extensive experience in advising clients on sensitive matters such as sexual harassment, whistleblowing and discrimination claims. Sykes is also commended for his work in managing large-scale redundancy consultations, including virtual meetings. Associate solicitor Izzy Canbury is highlighted as a key member of the team, providing vital support to clients.
Alan Jones, partner at Averta, said:
“We are delighted that Legal 500 commends us for our work for senior executives, which can often be highly complex and very personal. Our priority has always been to give clear, practical advice at times when it is most needed.”
David Sykes, partner at Averta, added:
“The strength of our team lies in the breadth of experience we bring to every situation. Whether advising on discrimination claims, contractual terms or large redundancy processes, we are committed to helping clients navigate what are often career-defining moments.”
Andrew Lester, now a partner, has been further developing the firm's expertise in redundancy exercises, while Yassar Sadiq has joined as an associate solicitor to provide additional support. Earlier this year, Martin Chitty also joined the firm, adding to the number of highly experienced consultant solicitors advising both individuals and employers.
Read the full Legal 500 ranking here.
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About Averta Employment Lawyers
Averta Employment Lawyers LLP is a niche employment law firm based in Solihull, specialising in advising senior executives, directors and professionals. Established in 2004, the firm has built a national reputation for providing practical, strategic advice on employment law issues including settlement agreements, contractual matters and discrimination claims.
Izzy Canbury promoted to Senior Associate Solicitor at Averta Employment Lawyers
Solihull, July 2025 – Averta Employment Lawyers has promoted Izzy Canbury to Senior Associate Solicitor.
Canbury joined the firm in 2016 and qualified in 2020, becoming an associate in 2022.
David Sykes, director and co‑founder of Averta Employment Lawyers, commented:
“Izzy has consistently demonstrated dedication, technical proficiency and a genuine commitment to supporting our clients. Her promotion reflects her impressive professional growth and the high regard in which she is held within our team. She’s a huge asset to Averta and our clients.”
Canbury added:
“Averta has helped me develop the expertise and I have been able to use my interpersonal skills to guide individuals through complex workplace transitions, which can be complicated and stressful. As a Senior Associate, I look forward to further supporting our clients and now using my experience to help growing our team.”
Averta shortlisted for Birmingham Law Society 2020 Legal Awards
Averta Employment Lawyers has once again been shortlisted
for Law Firm of the Year (sole practitioners and firms up to five partners)
following its success in winning in 2015 and being shortlisted in 2017.
Alan Jones, director at Averta Employment Lawyers said:
“It’s a credit to the team here that we are recognised as one of the leading
firms in the Birmingham area. Our
reputation is incredibly important to us, and I’m delighted to join a short
list of firms hoping to be successful in the award process’’
Shortlisted nominees will be interviewed by a panel of
judges from the legal sectors and the winners announced at the awards ceremony
in March at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham.
Averta advises on all employment law matters, with a focus
on the issues affecting senior executives and strategic advice to SME’s and
other businesses. Averta has also been named as one of The Times Best Law Firms
in 2019 and 2020.
The Legal Awards event has become a permanent fixture in the Midlands business calendar showcasing the achievements of the region’s legal community over the past year.
See the shortlist here - https://birminghamlawsociety.co.uk/the-2020-legal-awards-shortlist/
