Employment tribunal claims can be a costly and time-consuming process for businesses. Not only do they disrupt operations, but they can also damage your company’s reputation. At Birch Law, our experienced employment law team is dedicated to helping you defend against such claims effectively.
Understanding the employment tribunal process is crucial. From ACAS conciliation to the potential tribunal hearing, our experts guide you through every step. We can assist with drafting comprehensive responses to claims, preparing for cross-examination, and presenting your case effectively.
Understanding the Employment Tribunal Process
The employment tribunal process can be complex, and it’s essential to understand the key stages involved:
ACAS conciliation: Before a claim can be brought to the tribunal, the employee would usually contact ACAS for conciliation. This is an attempt to resolve the dispute without the need for legal proceedings.
Issuing the claim: If conciliation fails, the employee can issue a claim to the employment tribunal.
Response: You will have a specific timeframe to respond to the claim, outlining your defence.
Tribunal hearing: If the claim cannot be resolved through settlement or preliminary hearings, the case will proceed to a full tribunal hearing.
Common Types of Employment Tribunal Claims
Some of the most common types of employment tribunal claims include:
Unfair dismissal: This occurs when an employee is dismissed without a fair reason or without following a fair procedure.
Discrimination: This covers various forms of discrimination, such as age, sex, race, disability, and religion or belief.
Whistleblowing: Employees who make protected disclosures can bring claims if they suffer detriment or dismissal as a result.
Prevention is often better than cure. Birch Law offers proactive advice on employment law compliance. By reviewing employment contracts, handbooks, and HR policies, we can help you identify potential vulnerabilities and implement measures to reduce the risk of claims.
How Birch Law Can Help
Our employment law experts can provide comprehensive support throughout the entire employment tribunal process, including:
Advising on potential claims: We can help you identify potential risks and take steps to minimise the likelihood of claims.
Drafting settlement agreements: We can assist in negotiating and drafting settlement agreements to resolve disputes without going to tribunal.
Representing you at the tribunal: Our experienced solicitors will vigorously defend your case at the tribunal hearing.
By engaging Birch Law early in the process, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome and protect your business’s interests.
If you are facing an employment tribunal claim, don’t hesitate to contact our expert team for advice here.
