A spotlight on Richard Devall

This month we shine the spotlight on Richard Devall, Partner and Head of Employment and Immigration in the Thames Valley.

With almost 30 years’ experience in the region, Richard tells us about what first attracted him to a career in law, the type of advice he provides, his most memorable experience, his top tip for clients and what led him to living and working in the Thames Valley.

What first attracted you to a career in employment and immigration law?

In a word, ‘people’. I believe people are the most significant asset and liability for any business and people never cease to amaze, for better or worse.

What type of legal advice do you provide and to what sort of clients?

As an employment and business immigration lawyer, I take the time to really get under the skin and understand the culture of each of my clients’ businesses. Working with clients across a range of sectors, particularly defence, pharmaceutical, technology and manufacturing, I provide relevant advice whilst always maintaining a commercial perspective.

I provide support on the employment and immigration aspects of corporate acquisitions and re-organisations, looking to ensure that employees are respectfully treated throughout. I regularly support clients with employee engagement and talent management, making sure you attract and retain the individuals you need in your business. And should you find yourself dealing with something which could be contentious, I advise on whistleblowing, discrimination, and dismissals along with the enforcement of restrictive covenants.

I also have a particular expertise in international legal work, focussed on overseas businesses investing into the UK, client global expansion programmes and global mobility. Another key area of expertise for me is business immigration, assisting clients with international employee transfers both into and out of the UK.

What is you most memorable legal experience and why?

There are many, but nothing will ever be more memorable than being part of the legal team acting for the victims’ families in a successful landmark civil case against the alleged perpetrators of the Omagh bomb – in terms of death toll, the worst single atrocity in almost 30 years of the Troubles of Northern Ireland

What is it about the Thames Valley specifically which led you to work there?

Having been living in Singapore, I came to the Thames Valley for the first time for my training contract. At the time, I thought I would go back to Asia on qualification, but I found everything here – my wife, beautiful countryside, great towns and cities, Heathrow Airport and London on your doorstep. The region has done nothing but grow and develop and I have grown and developed with it. Long may it continue.

What is your number one tip for clients?

Work with a lawyer you connect with and trust.

Outside work, how do you like to spend your spare time?

Whatever the weather, I’m standing in fields watching my two boys play rugby or football or I’m on a riverbank watching them row. I get a huge amount of enjoyment and pride from coaching junior rugby at Newbury Rugby Club, and I’m an avid supporter of Reading Football Club (goodness knows why!!).