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Laura McMaster, Duncan Lewis

Laura McMaster

Solicitor

Contact Information

Profile / Experience

I am an In-House Employment Solicitor at Duncan Lewis. I am also a practising employment solicitor.

As an ‘in house’ solicitor, the company is my client. I guide and support Duncan Lewis in internal matters relating to employment law and good employment practice. I assist the company in achieving its strategic vision and forward growth.

Prior to joining Duncan Lewis, I was a dedicated employment solicitor acting for external clients. With Duncan Lewis, I still act for clients where appropriate.

I have substantial experience advising on a wide range of employment matters. I principally act for employers and senior employees.

My work includes: general advisory work and documentation; sensitive employee matters and processes; business restructures, redundancies and TUPE; employee exits and settlement agreements (with values up to/exceeding £1m), and post-employment matters and post-termination restrictions. I have significant experience with negotiated exits, conciliation/mediation and Employment Tribunal claims.

I often advise in situations where individuals have combined employment, director and shareholder status. According to Legal 500, I am “particularly adept” in the realm of complex senior-level exits (on both sides of the fence).

I want my clients to be confident in owning their decisions: this is done by ensuring that each client understands their options and can proceed in a way that’s right for them. I am outcome-focused and provide clear and practical advice. My approach is described as professional but understanding and without unnecessary formality.

My main additional focus, developed throughout my career and as a strategic lead, is on mental health and wellbeing. I also have significant experience in areas including EDI, mentoring and relationship building. I have written regular articles for the firm and external publications. I am a member of the Employment Lawyers Association and a qualified Mental Health First Aider. I have been ranked as a Leading Associate in the Legal 500 for multiple years.



Education

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice (LPC) / Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) (combined LLB Honours) – College of Law
  • MA Classics and Ancient History – University of Warwick
  • BA Hons Classical Civilisation – University of Warwick

Career

  • Duncan Lewis Solicitors – In House Employment Solicitor and Practising Solicitor (2025 - Present)
  • PDT Solicitors LLP / Cripps LLP (following a merger) – to Managing Associate (2018 - 2025)
  • Cripps LLP – Trainee Solicitor / Associate (2015 – 2018: Admitted as Solicitor 2017)

Awards

  • Legal 500 - Leading Associate, Employment (2026: Kent, Surrey Sussex) (ranked for multiple years).
  • "Laura McMaster is particularly adept at assisting employers with complex senior-level exits, with a strong focus on negotiated terminations, restrictive covenants, and reputational risk management issues" (Legal 500 2026).
  • Membership & Accreditations

    • Practicing Certificate
    • Member of Employment Lawyers Association
    • Qualified Mental Health First Aider

    Interests

    • I enjoy horse riding, photography, history and travel (and combining these wherever possible).
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