“Pensions have a reputation for being confusing and boring, but it doesn’t have to be that way. I love to unravel the complexities of trust law and legislation, and give my clients advice that is clear, concise and actionable.”

Kirsty is a pensions law specialist who helps trustees and employers to navigate complex pensions issues with confidence.

She is particularly experienced in resolving historic member benefit issues, advising on statutory debt implications, redrafting pension scheme documentation, acting in relation to scheme mergers and consolidations, and managing sensitive member disputes.

Most recently she has guided schemes through Guaranteed Minimum Pension equalisation and conversion, and advised on risk transfer projects including buying out benefits with insurers.

Areas of practice include:

Sector experience includes:

Admitted

2008: Scotland

Relevant experience

•   Advising trustees of a multi-billion-pound defined benefit pension scheme on a range of legal issues, including corporate activity, member disputes, general code compliance and funding matters.
•   Acting as lead adviser to a number of pension schemes in the Scottish university sector, including advice on data protection, contingent assets, benefit changes and historic equalisation and escalation issues.
•   Collaborating as part of a multi-adviser team to secure benefits for all members of a UK defined benefit pension scheme including bespoke ongoing terms for members in service.
•   Advising trustees and employers on the implications of the Virgin Media court ruling for pension schemes contracted-out on the reference scheme basis.
•   Advising a multinational employer in connection with a number of pensions and related issues, including the replacement of their occupational pension scheme’s trust deed and rules and the establishment of group life assurance trusts.
•   Providing bespoke training for a range of clients on trustee duties, managing conflicts, discretionary decision-making and current legal issues.

“Kirsty Headden is delightful, hugely knowledgeable, and her advice is well-thought-through and articulate.”

Legal 500 (2024)

Further testimonials

“Her commercial vision is very strong. She’s very supportive, able and value for money-focused.”

Chambers (2024)

“Kirsty Headden is always available and on top of issues”

Legal 500 (2024)

“Kirsty is a delight to work with as well as being technically gifted.”

Chambers (2023)

“Kirsty Headden acts for a range of trustees and institutions, offering particular strength in scheme amendment and equalisation matters.”

Chambers (2022)

“She gives well-considered and practical advice.”

Chambers (2021)

Further information:

Recognition and memberships

Leading Associate, Legal 500 (2024)
Shortlisted, Employment Rising Star of the Year, Legal 500 Scotland Awards (2023)
Member, Association of Pension Lawyers (2008)