Ellis Jessica Walby

About me

Employment problems can cause commercial tension and I strive to neutralise that by comprehensive and methodical resolution of those issues. Working life is not always plain sailing, so good advice is key. I strive to be proactive and commercial, identifying possible problems before they arise, and understanding the bigger picture.

One of my roles is to strengthen my clients’ future business protection through post-termination restrictions, confidentiality provisions, garden leave clauses and social media policies. These can be used to enforce my client’s rights, so that their business isn’t compromised.

From employment contracts, service agreements and settlement agreements to acting for employers on Employment Tribunal claims, I work with a wide range of clients, from senior directors to junior staff, and from SMEs to well-known international brands.

Outside work, I can often be found at the side of a football pitch, cheering my son and his team on.

I sit as a Committee Member of the Employment Lawyers Association (UK) Junior Committee.

“You are on fire!” Two employment tribunal settlements lead to testimonial

When a client required expert advice during two employment tribunals, she turned to Employment Associate Ellis Jessica Walby. Both tribunals were discrimination claims and involved multiple parties – making them even more complex and costly to deal with. Ellis provided support and, importantly, understanding for her client; her tenacious approach led to both employment tribunals being settled in the same 24 hours after several months of work. Following these successful settlements, her client provided this short, but to the point, testimonial: “You are on fire! Thank you so much.” Ellis is looking forward to working on similar cases in the future.

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Expert held led to great outcome for client after discrimination at work

Ellis Jessica Walby successfully negotiated eight months’ pay without any need to go to a tribunal for a client who had suffered alleged discrimination in the workplace. Combining a calm and reassuring manner and a robust approach, she both supported the client and secured an excellent outcome, with peace of mind that her client can now move on to pastures new. The client said: “Everyone needs you in their corner when going through something like this. I (very wrongly) thought the process would be cold and indifferent and you brought a real warmth whilst being an absolute bulldog! Thank you so much for all of your hard work and support on this, it made a huge difference to this whole process and I really appreciate it.”

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Help and advice for director in need of new start

When a senior director found herself struggling with severe mental health issues, caused by a damaging workplace culture, she turned to Ellis Jessica Walby for professional advice. Ellis supported and strategically advised this director, successfully negotiating a favourable exit package which afforded the director a solid financial safety net to recuperate without needing to source a new role during her recovery. The director said: “Ellis has been brilliant - very clear, and extremely kind, as well as superbly effective at getting an outcome for me that supports my wellbeing - after a horrible few months.”

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Peace of mind and an enhanced settlement after pandemic led to redundancy

When a mother was made redundant from a job that she had held for well over a decade, as a result of the economic impact of Covid-19, she came to Ellis Jessica Walby for employment law expertise and support to help guide her through the settlement process. Ellis successfully negotiated enhanced settlement terms for her and oversaw the finalisation of a legally binding agreement that provided her with peace of mind – as well as the financial package to which she was entitled. The client said afterwards: “Fabulous news, thank you again for all your support on this matter. It really is very much appreciated. You have been a breath of fresh air through this process, so thank you again.”

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Improved redundancy package follows expert employment advice

When a mother was made redundant from a job role she truly enjoyed, which regrettably followed an already challenging year for her personally, she knew that she needed calm, responsive, employment law expertise to help guide her through the settlement process. Ellis, Cheltenham solicitor successfully negotiated improved settlement terms for her and oversaw the finalisation of a binding agreement that gave her peace of mind – as well as the financial package she was entitled to. Once settlement had been agreed, she said: “Thank you so much for your prompt and seamless assistance with my requirements. It has been great to work with you. Many thanks.”

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My Awards

Legal 500 - Recommended Lawyer 2024

Top Tips & FAQs

Discover my top tips

Be as open and honest as you can when giving instructions and providing me with the background information. The more information I have and the more accurate that information, the better I can assist you and ensure the best possible outcome.

Take time to consider what your primary aim is and then relay it to me in full. The greater my understanding of your ultimate goal and what's at the heart of your matter, the smoother the journey will be.

The value of a paper trail cannot be underestimated. If one particular incident concerning your job is troubling you, make sure you accurately document it while it's fresh in your mind. If your problem is an ongoing one, ensure you keep an authentic paper trail of the issues at stake over a period of time.

Read questions I’m frequently asked

My employer's told me that I need legal advice on this settlement agreement – is that right?
Yes. If your employer has placed a settlement agreement before you, you will need to take independent legal advice on the terms and effect of the agreement and your ability to pursue any claims that you may have, in order for it to be a legally binding agreement. The good news is that, whilst they are under no obligation to do so, employers often think commercially and fund a large percentage of legal fees, if not the full cost, of you obtaining this legal advice. It's vital that you understand what you're signing - and why.

Surely I have a claim?
Possibly, but this is entirely dependent on the specific facts of your individual case. It is of paramount importance that you take specialist legal advice as soon as an issue begins to arise, as this is likely to save you time, stress and money.

I understand that you're a solicitor – can you guide me through my divorce/draft my will/help me with my house sale/purchase?
This is often asked by various family members, friends and LinkedIn contacts. I enjoy helping anyone, but you will need to speak with a lawyer specialising in that particular area. That being said, I can certainly put you in touch with the right lawyer who can help you!