Unsuccessful tribunal claimants should pay costs for failed cases

The use of social media as a marketing tool has increased dramatically and is now essential. I have a LinkedIn account and have just started on Twitter. It’s important to remember these are business accounts. Some solicitors still don’t get that!

What law would you like to see changed?

Costs should be awarded automatically against claimants who bring unsuccessful claims. Currently, cost awards are the exception rather than the norm. Though I’ve secured costs awards for clients on numerous occasions, I’ve been frustrated in hearings I’ve won where the claimant didn’t have to pay my client’s costs. Tribunals shouldn’t be risk free forums for claimants.

What is the most exciting work you have ever done?

Defending a race discrimination claim which alleged 19 people were racist and in which the claimant wanted £3m damages. It was a massive responsibility with a difficult opponent, but we won.

Who in the legal world do you most admire?

Those lawyers who start a firm from scratch and build it up. It takes real guts to go it alone and real talent to make it a success.

I have a couple of lawyer friends who have done just that and listening to them talk about what they have already achieved and their plans for the future is impressive.