Nicholas G Smith

Practice Areas

With over three decades of experience in Employment Tribunal (ET) litigation, Nick is the most seasoned employment law advocate based in the West of England. He has built a formidable reputation for his trial advocacy nationwide, handling some of the most complex, sensitive, and high-value cases in the country.

He inspires confidence leaving clients reassured that they are in safe hands- making the transition from solicitor to counsel a seamless process.

Nick has exceptional skill in witness handling- vital in evolving ET landscape where nuanced cross-examination and sensitivity are critical. He brings a rare combination of insight, intuition, and finely tuned preparation to the trial environment. His ability to read witnesses and tailor his approach—whether robust or restrained—makes him a trusted choice for difficult cases.

Often Instructed in remedy hearings with realistic values over £1m - where outcomes can be career or business-defining, clients rely on his strategic acumen to navigate complex factual and legal terrain.

Nick has been Band 1 ranked in all the leading legal directories for over 20 years and is widely regarded as the go-to advocate for high-value, legally intricate, and sensitive employment matters. His appellate and High Court experience is extensive.

As a member of ELA since its inception and the chief architect of three employment teams —including Guildhall’s Employment & Discrimination team in 2012—Nick has consistently led from the front. He is an advocate who inspires confidence- respected not only for his legal knowledge but also for his accessibility, teamwork, and good humour.