4 of the best employment lawyers in Belfast

To assist with identifying the premier employment law specialists in Belfast, the city's leading practices have been evaluated against the following criteria:

• Specialist Expertise: Selection favours solicitors who focus primarily on employment law rather than general legal practice.
• Track Record: Assessment focuses on the firm's history of achieving successful resolutions in tribunals and out-of-court settlements.
• Fee Transparency: Priority is given to firms providing clear, upfront cost estimates and flexible pricing models.
• Communication: Advocates are chosen for their ability to explain complex legal procedures clearly and maintain client contact throughout the case.

Workplace disputes can be exceptionally stressful. Securing the support of a knowledgeable, dedicated employment solicitor is critical to ensuring legal rights are protected.

The following four employment lawyers in Belfast consistently deliver outstanding results.

How much do employment lawyers in Belfast charge?

Employment solicitors in Belfast typically charge between £200 to £500 per hour, depending on their seniority and the complexity of the case. For specific services, such as reviewing settlement agreements, some firms offer fixed fees ranging from £500 to £1,800.

1. McCartan Turkington Breen Solicitors

Phone: +44 28 9032 9801

Business hours:

• Monday to Friday: 9 am to 5 pm
• Saturday to Sunday: Closed

Website

McCartan Turkington Breen Solicitors handles the full spectrum of workplace disputes, including discrimination, harassment, and unfair dismissal. The firm has established a reputation for executing complex litigation, notably leading the landmark holiday pay class action for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) to the Supreme Court.

Led by partner John McShane, the employment department is recognised for meticulous preparation and tenacity. A complimentary, confidential initial consultation is offered, allowing prospective clients to assess legal options without obligation. Clients praise the team for clear communication and proactive case updates, though some have noted occasional administrative scheduling adjustments.

The process was handled efficiently from start to finish

“I had an excellent experience with Thomas Brangam at MTB Solicitors. He was professional, friendly, and kept me updated throughout my personal injury claim. The process was handled efficiently from start to finish, and I’m really pleased with the outcome. I’d highly recommend Thomas and the team at MTB for anyone needing a reliable and supportive solicitor.”

• Joseph Woods, Google review

I am honestly blown away by these guys

“I am honestly blown away with these guys, especially Harry McAleese, who dealt with my case. From day 1, each person I ever spoke to was so friendly and helpful. When I needed to change appointments, they set it up; it was no bother to them at all. I would definitely recommend them to anyone without hesitation. Thank you so much for everything you have done for me.”

• Cheryl Bell, Google review

2. Francis Hanna & Co Solicitors

Phone: +44 28 9024 3901

Business hours:

• Monday to Friday: 9 am to 1 pm, 2 pm to 5 pm
• Saturday to Sunday: Closed

Website

Francis Hanna & Co Solicitors is a versatile firm offering expert employment law advice to both individual employees and corporate employers. The firm regularly advises on issues such as unfair dismissal, redundancy, and contract disputes.

The legal team is widely respected for a patient approach, taking the time to explain complex legal frameworks to clients during stressful periods. They act as dedicated advocates, focusing on achieving amicable resolutions where possible whilst providing clear strategic advice. Due to the thoroughness of their casework, some clients have reported occasional delays in response times.

They provide an excellent service for your legal requirements

“I would not hesitate to recommend Francis Hanna and Co solicitors. Every member of the team was professional, efficient and dealt with my legal needs swiftly. They always acted in my best interests, being strong advocates for me and making sure I received a good outcome. Francis Hanna and Co. have the expertise and experience to deal with a wide range of legal issues and will take the time to explain the process fully. They provide an excellent service for your legal requirements.”

• Laura, Google review

Their efficiency was outstanding

“I recently worked with Karen Connely of Francis Hanna & Co, a family solicitor in Belfast, and I can’t recommend her and her company highly enough. From the outset, they were incredibly helpful, taking the time to understand my situation and explaining complex legal matters in a clear, compassionate way. Their efficiency was outstanding-every step of the process was handled promptly, with regular updates that kept me informed and reassured. They navigated my case with professionalism and care, achieving a positive outcome that exceeded my expectations.”

• Billy Stein, Google review

3. O’Reilly Stewart Solicitors

Phone: +44 28 9032 1000

Business hours:

• Monday to Friday: 9 am to 5 pm
• Saturday to Sunday: Closed

Website

O’Reilly Stewart Solicitors provides comprehensive employment law services, specialising in constructive dismissal, discrimination claims, and contract drafting for both corporate entities and individuals. The firm has a strong reputation for representing clients before the Industrial Tribunal, recently securing a significant unanimous award for a constructive dismissal claimant.

The firm is noted for providing reassuring client support throughout complex legal proceedings. The team remains meticulous in evidence gathering and cross-examination. As the employment department is relatively compact, it operates with a focused caseload to ensure personalised client care.

I could not have asked for more

“Many thanks to Stuart (and Lisa) for all your professional help and continuous updates throughout the course of my journey with O’Reilly Stewart Solicitors. I could not have asked for more, and I wish you both continuous success.”

• Eugene McArdele, Google review

Very professional and dedicated

“The best experiences I could have. Highly recommended O’Reilly Stewart Solicitors, especially Paula and Thomas. They are very professional, very dedicated, they were always willing to answer all my questions without hesitation, very fast and above all, reliable. I thank them enormously for all the help and support they provided!”

• Adelina Bejan, Google review

4. Oracle Solicitors

Phone: +44 28 9002 2371

Business hours:

• Monday to Sunday: 9 am to 5:30 pm

Website

Oracle Solicitors provides expert counsel on a broad array of employment law matters, serving both corporate employers and individual employees. The firm regularly advises on unfair dismissal, redundancy procedures, and organisational restructuring.

The team is noted for practical, plain-English advice, avoiding complex legal jargon to ensure clients fully understand their options. Watford Council has praised Oracle for strategic guidance during major workforce changes. While the firm remains efficient in resolving cases, some clients have reported occasional delays in returning initial enquiry calls.

Professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly supportive

“I had a wonderful experience working with Maggie Guade! She was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly supportive throughout the entire process. Maggie went above and beyond to ensure everything went smoothly, and her attention to detail truly stood out. It’s rare to find someone so dedicated and personable. I highly recommend her services to anyone looking for a reliable and trustworthy professional. Thank you, Maggie!”

• Narobika Abrham, Google review

I have heartfelt appreciation and gratitude for her highly professional work

“I started my journey with Sir. Kiven, who was very friendly, easy to find and very helpful. Then he handed over my claim to the brilliant, creative and clever solicitor Maggie Guada, who has done more than an amazing job. I have heartfelt appreciation and gratitude for her highly professional work. I will remain thankful to her always. I highly recommend her.”

• Sarah Dawood, Google review

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