In this series, we introduce some of the people that make up Stephens Scown. We learn about their expertise, what drew them to join the legal profession and find out a little bit about who they are outside of work.
Here we introduce Charlotte Cole, a solicitor in our Employment team.
Can you share with us a little bit about your role and a typical day?
As a solicitor in the employment team, I am involved in a variety of aspects of employment law, advising both employers and employees with their employment needs.
I spend a portion of my time working as part of the team on our HRExpress service. HRExpress involves advising and supporting employers on a day-to-day basis with their HR and employment law related queries. No day is the same on HRExpress, and we are able to provide pragmatic and detailed advice on dealing with a variety of workplace issues that employers may face.
I am also involved in representing both Claimants and Respondents in the employment tribunal. We regularly act on matters including issues of unfair dismissal and different types of discrimination, with the aim of achieving the best possible outcome for the client. My work on tribunal cases can include drafting claims and responses, drafting applications to the tribunal, advising throughout the lifespan of a case and negotiating settlement.
Why did you choose to specialise in employment law?
I have recently qualified into the team as a Solicitor, having worked in various teams at the firm as a trainee solicitor since September 2022. During my time as a trainee I completed seats in the rural property team and the construction disputes team, gaining valuable experience in both contentious and non-contentious work.
Ultimately, however, I have always had a passion for employment law. I have truly enjoyed my time as a trainee in the firm and have loved being qualified into the team. I really enjoy the wide-ranging work that employment law can present, and the opportunity to work on both contentious and non-contentious matters. Employment law is a fast changing area of law, particularly in the recent year with a host of changes anticipated from the Labour Government.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of the job is being able to support clients through situations in the workplace that can be very stressful and potentially overwhelming on all parties involved. Employment law is directly relevant to so many people, whether that is as an employee and/or as someone who is responsible for employees in their own roles. It is rewarding being able to ease the pressure that clients may feel through providing clear, concise and practical advice, while also taking into account the very ‘human’ nature of this area of the law.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you be and why?
Growing up, having seen family members run their own small business, I had always been interested in that type of role. If I weren’t a lawyer I could see myself having worked in another sector with an aim of owning my own business one day. I really enjoy travelling, so I would have enjoyed having a business maybe organising exciting trips for other people!
How do you spend your time outside of work?
Outside of work I like to have a good balance of an active lifestyle, but also taking time to reset and relax. I enjoy spending time catching up on the latest shows. Being keen to stay fit I have recently started running (starting with couch to 5K) and often spend time at Pilates classes during the week.
I have recently been on a long-anticipated trip to travel Australia, and I would love to spend more time seeing new places, both closer to home and abroad. It is fascinating being able to experience new places and cultures.
Since being back from my travels I have also started learning how to crochet, so yes, my friends and family can now expect exclusively crocheted gifts from now on!
What does it mean to work for Stephens Scown, what makes us different?
Working for Stephens Scown has been a great experience so far. As a B Corp there is a real emphasis on taking care of both people and the planet, which are important values for me, while still being able to excel as a business professionally and commercially. Stephens Scown strikes a good balance between these aspects. Being a B Corp aligns well with my own personal values and I think means our firm stands out from others.
I have also recently used some of my volunteer leave to give back to the community and the environment by planting trees on Dartmoor. I feel really lucky to work for a firm which supports and encourages us to give back.