Michael is a partner in our employment team and has over 13 years’ experience in employment work.

He has a diverse range of experience in advising both employers and employees. His practical, supportive and commercial approach to advising clients has seen him build a large and loyal base of clients across Hertfordshire and North London.

Michael handles a broad spectrum of work ranging from advice on policies and contracts to conducting complex litigation. Recently Michael has been involved in a number high-profile disputes in the Employment Tribunal, Employment Appeal Tribunal and Court of Appeal. He has developed a specialism in advising on complex employment status disputes, sexual harassment investigations and claims, whistleblowing and potentially age discriminatory policies (employer justified retirement age).

Michael works closely with our corporate and dispute resolution lawyers to deliver comprehensive advice to commercial clients on matters ranging from serious fraud to director/shareholder disputes and the employment aspects of insolvency.

Expertise

With an extensive experience of advising on all aspects of disciplinary, performance review and sickness absence processes Michael is often called upon on an urgent basis to advise his clients on general HR issues or disputes within the workplace.

Michael regularly delivers seminars and training around the latest developments in employment law. As a promoter of equal opportunities and women’s rights, Michael is often asked to speak and comment on the topic of menopause in the workplace.

Michael studied Law at the University of Reading before undertaking the Legal Practice Course at the College of Law in London. Michael trained with Debenhams Ottaway, qualified in 2009, he was promoted to associate in 2015, made senior associate in May 2019 and was promoted to partner in 2023.

In Touch

Michael is a member of the Employment Lawyers Association.

  • Michael Kerrigan in particular always takes the time to make verbal contact to fully explain the movement on claims and discuss legal points where directions are required. He adopts a clear and easy approach to explain legal implications. This provides an opportunity to fully assess the commerciality element for us as a corporate business.

    The Legal 500 UK 2023

  • We refer all of our conflict work to Michael Kerrigan. The feedback from contacts who we refer is always positive and they like his style and empathetic approach.

    The Legal 500 UK 2023

  • Louise Attrup and Michael Kerrigan are both accomplished solicitors. Their direct and efficient approach in explaining legal arguments ensure that we are presented with all the information required to make decisions on how we proceed with litigations. Excellent and sound legal advice received from both.

    The Legal 500 UK 2022

  • Michael is experienced in representing clients in claims of unfair dismissal, age discrimination and victimisation, among others. He knows how to look after a client and is very knowledgeable.

    Chambers UK 2022

  • Michael has been a very trusted lawyer for two companies I have worked for over the past few years; he is extremely diligent and knowledgeable in his profession of employment law and I would not hesitate to recommend him.

    Camilla Gibbs

  • Initially, you were able to give me advice immediately. Once engaged the service was clear and I was treated with respect. Everything I expected I got (and this is not my first experience of legal services.

    Mrs Brenda Morris

  • The responsiveness and general manner of Michael was excellent; he was extremely supportive and clear in any advice he gave.

    Client

  • [Michael was] willing to go above and beyond what was strictly necessary, to get the resolution.

    Ms K Blake

  • Michael provided excellent understanding of my needs and was able to facilitate discussions with the other party on my behalf, which took a lot of pressure off myself. I appreciated his frequent updates and advice throughout. I appreciated that there was no pressure for any other future services from the company.

    Bruce Murdoch

  • When I called to discuss an appointment, my query was dealt with in a professional, clear, helpful way – unlike other local solicitors I contacted with the same query.

    Claire Owen

  • Michael is extremely professional and always goes over and above what is expected to make sure we get the best possible advice. We have worked together for many years and we are extremely happy with the service we receive.

    Jamie Cook, Managing Director of Louella Belle Ltd

  • Michael has been dealing with my case and I just wanted to say he is a fantastic solicitor. He made a very stressful issue for me far easier and always took the time to listen to me. I found him to be very pragmatic with his advice, professional and he always responded very quickly. He was a pleasure to deal with and he is most certainly a credit to Debenhams Ottaway. I would not hesitate in recommending him to others.

    Client

  • My matter was dealt with quickly and efficiently and as well as direct contact with the lawyer, the support staff were equally as professional and efficient.

    Sandra Levy

  • Michael understood what I needed and was able to help me.

    Gary Cooper

  • Michael had great attention to detail, care and dedication when supporting me throughout the matter. His knowledge and expertise reassured me and gave me total confidence that I would achieve the desired outcome with Michael’s support. His communication and personable approach made the process seem effortless.

    Client

  • Prompt and clear advice about how the procedure would unfold, what issues would need to be considered and clear advice at decision points.

    Richard Brown

  • Really quick turnaround and a very professional service provided by Michael Kerrigan. He was very helpful throughout the whole process and explained all aspects of the legal documents. Highly recommended!

    Randhir Mahida, Cardif Pinnacle

  • Michael was informative, knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with on a difficult and emotive case.

    Tom Mason

  • Michael was very professional and responded quickly to my queries. I would highly recommend him.

    Yesim Faulkner

  • I cannot thank Michael Kerrigan enough and unreservedly recommend him; his knowledge, his professionalism and his care, and attention to his clients is indisputable

    Legal 500 UK 2024

  • Michael is a top-quality professional who knows his craft inside out.

    Chambers UK 2024

  • He is very knowledgeable and passionate in employment law. He can always bring clarity to a client on employment matters.

    Chambers UK 2024

  • I felt confident from the very first meeting with Michael Kerrigan that I was working with the very best, and knew that, whatever the outcome, I was receiving the best possible advice and guidance.

    Chambers UK 2024

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