Seldon v Clarkson Wright & Jakes

The Tribunal considered the remitted issues in this long-running case which concerned whether a mandatory retirement age of 65 in the partnership deed of a solicitors’ firm was justified direct age discrimination.
 
The Tribunal found that the retirement age was justified at the time that Mr Seldon retired in 2006 because of the need to reflect the expectations of the partners and associates, ensure succession and fulfil the needs of the partnership. The Tribunal held, in accordance with the guidance provided by the Supreme Court, that the consent of the partners to the clause was particularly relevant, as was the fact that at the time of retirement the Default Retirement Age for employees was 65.
 
Thomas Croxford and Emily Neill represented the partnership, Clarkson Wright and Jakes.