Catherine Casserley

Catherine specialises in discrimination, human rights law and employment law. Her knowledge of the Equality Act 2010 ("EqA") is exceptional (she advised and drafted for it on behalf of clients during its passage) with particular expertise in disability discrimination. She represents and advises in very complex and sensitive discrimination matters in employment and non employment. In the employment field, in addition to discrimination she has developed expertise in whistleblowing and complex worker contractual claims. She has appeared in ground breaking cases involving discrimination and human rights covering private and public law, including Aylott v Stockton on Tees (direct disability discrimination, employment) Preddy and Hall v Bull and Bull (sexual orientation and discrimination), Paulley v First Buses (both Supreme Court ) ; in the High Court, Rowley v Cabinet Office, BSL users and covid briefings; Ali v Reason and Nott (belief and political parties); Abrahart v Bristol Uni (education and disability). Her instructions range from individuals to large organisations and NHS trusts ; and outside employment cases range from assisted dying to education discrimination and seeking judicial review of juror participation. She also advises organisations on strategic litigation and legal policy issues arising from employment and/or general disability issues. She was involved in drafting the initial EqA Codes of Practice on Services, and technical guidance. She has been a specialist adviser to two parliamentary committees. Publications include Blackstones on the Equality Act 2010 and Legal Action's Discrimination in Employment A Claims Handbook.