Graham Shannon

Associate Solicitor

Job Role

I joined EMG Solicitors to help in the expansion of the firm’s growing Litigation Department with a particular role in the provision of advice in Employment Law both to employers as well as employees, workers and the self-employed. I qualified as a Solicitor in 1989 and have been practising as an Employment Law specialist for the last 15 years having previously advised clients in a wide range of Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence claims. In my previous practice I was the first Solicitor in Northumberland to be granted a contract to provide legal aid work in Employment Law which resulted in my accumulating a wide range of experience including Advocacy experience in the Employment Tribunal and Civil Courts.

Engagement with my clients attracted me to Law and has been the source of my enjoyment of practice ever since. My current role enables me to devote 100% of my attention and effort to my clients and I have the support of experienced colleagues to help me deliver the service I take pride in providing. I am routinely asked to advise in the drafting of Employment Contracts, Procedures and Policies as well as to advise on issues arising from the sale and transfer of businesses where I work alongside my colleagues in our Commercial Property department. I am also asked to advise on the enforcement and drafting of post termination restrictions. As a Charity Trustee I have a particular affinity with Employment issues arising in the ‘not for profit’ sector.

Experience

I joined EMG having previously worked as a Partner at a North Tyneside firm. As a Partner, I had responsibility for the firm’s staff and the development of related policies and procedures. I also have accumulated a substantial amount of experience with HR issues in the management of my own staff, so I have the benefit of the insight of an Employer in advising my clients.

In the context of Employment Law, I have advised on a multitude of issues covering a broad spectrum including Unfair Dismissal, Redundancy, Wrongful Dismissal and Discrimination in all of its forms. I have a particular interest in claims arising from Constructive Dismissal and discrimination claims arising from disabilities.

I sit as chair to the Trustees at CHOYSEZ, a charity involved in the provision of education to children excluded from mainstream education.

I hope to be taking up a part time position as an Associate Lecturer in the Law Department of Northumbria University teaching Civil Litigation to Trainee Barristers.

What do I Like about working at EMG?

The freedom to dedicate all my resources to my preferred area of practice and clients. The supportive colleagues positive and optimistic culture in the Firm and its investment in its people and the IT support necessary to deliver a quality service to our clients.

Outside EMG

I am a recreational runner, I enjoy hill walking, travel and food (eating and cooking). I’m also an aspiring musician and play guitar in a small group.

News & Articles posted by Graham Shannon

View all News & Articles by Graham Shannon