Jo Keddie, head of employment at the law firm Forsters, recently secured a tribunal award of nearly £1.5 million for Jonathan Reeves, a former Goldman Sachs executive. An employment tribunal found that Reeves was unfairly dismissed from his role after experiencing sex discrimination while on parental leave following the birth of his child.

Keddie described the case as particularly challenging due to the need to obtain compelling evidence supporting damages related to reputational harm and career disruption, often referred to as “stigma” damages. She explained that building a clear evidential link between the litigation and the subsequent adverse impact on Reeves’s career prospects was a key hurdle. The tribunal ultimately accepted that although Reeves won the case, his future job opportunities had been seriously affected by the dismissal.

Quantifying the future financial losses and the ongoing impact on Reeves’s career trajectory also presented a significant obstacle. Keddie cited the complexity of translating these less tangible consequences into a quantifiable award as a notable difficulty in the case.

Reflecting on her approach to litigation, Keddie emphasized the importance of curiosity and courage in exploring innovative legal arguments. She expressed admiration for Baroness Hale, the former president of the UK Supreme Court, highlighting her influential work in constitutional and equality law, including her role in the Gina Miller prorogation case.

Keddie also shared a lighter moment from her legal career, recalling a remote court hearing during the COVID-19 pandemic in which the presiding judge’s attempts to maintain order were interrupted by the loud demands of his backyard chickens, an experience that challenged her to maintain composure.

When discussing the most rewarding and frustrating aspects of being a lawyer, Keddie noted that effecting positive change in challenging cases is among the best parts of her work. Conversely, she pointed to delays within the tribunal system as a significant barrier to timely access to justice.

Looking ahead, she advocated for urgent reforms to tribunals, emphasizing the need for increased financial investment and prioritization to improve the system’s efficiency.

Outside of work, Keddie’s preferred way to mark both successes and setbacks is with a glass of sparkling wine, which she said helps her celebrate achievements and maintain perspective during difficult times.