clear employment law advice,
calmly delivered

Malcolm Mackay WS oversees each matter personally, drawing on trusted specialists where appropriate,
and ensuring that the final advice reflects his experience, judgement and practical approach.

Malcolm Mackay WS, recipient of the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award at the Scottish Legal Awards. read more
mmws koi
a lifetime in employment law read Malcolm's profile in The Times

experience, perspective and practical advice

Malcolm Mackay WS has spent more than four decades working in employment law, advising on everything from everyday workplace issues to complex disputes, discrimination, TUPE and litigation.

His approach is grounded in a simple principle: prevention is usually better than cure. Where problems do arise, the aim is to understand what matters, reduce unnecessary conflict and find a solution that can actually work.

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a case that changed the law

Brown v Rentokil

Malcolm Mackay WS represented Mary Brown in the landmark Brown v Rentokil case, with Mackay Simon WS acting on her behalf as the case progressed through the UK courts and ultimately to the European Court of Justice.

In 1998, the Court ruled that dismissing a woman during pregnancy because of absence caused by pregnancy-related illness was contrary to equal treatment law. The decision became an important development in the protection of pregnant women at work.

view the European Court judgment

justice · wisdom · humanity

The three koi at the heart of mmws reflect the qualities Malcolm brings to his work: patience, perseverance, perspective and a belief that difficult situations are best approached with humanity.

Artwork used by mmws

a reputation built over time

what people say about Malcolm

“Hi Malcolm. Just a quick text to wish you a very merry Xmas and a happy new year 2023 AND to thank you for everything you did for me on a legal and emotional level. You are one of The Good Ones in this world and you genuinely saved/changed my life. I'll forever be grateful. I'm loving my new job at xxxxxx working with great people. It would not have been possible without you. THANK YOU.”

SM, Lothians

WeDo Scotland

on Malcolm receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award

“A legendary employment law pioneer & entrepreneur.”

“Thank you for all your hard work. I appreciate it more than you will ever know.”

CF, London

“Malcolm Mackay is a legal visionary.”

Senior employment lawyer

“Malcolm Mackay is a legend in employment law.”

Employment law specialist

“Malcolm Mackay is years ahead of his time.”

Law firm management professional

“Malcolm Mackay is a force for good.”

LA, health and safety