Resolving workplace disputes
Workplace disputes can be disruptive, costly and reputationally sensitive. We help you to assess the risk of potential or actual claims early, set a clear commercial strategy, and resolve claims on sensible commercial terms where possible. Where litigation cannot be avoided or is the right course of action for your business, we provide robust support through all stages of the Employment Tribunal process.
We always say that we cannot prevent a disgruntled employee or former employee from bringing a claim - but we can put you in the best position to defend it and, where possible, resolve the dispute on commercially sensible terms.
Where a claimant has threatened or started Employment Tribunal proceedings against you, we will support you through each stage of the litigation – from drafting a defence to preparing documents and witnesses and instructing a barrister to represent you at a final hearing.
We believe that litigation should not be undertaken lightly. It is unpredictable and distracting, eating up valuable management time and money that could be better utilised elsewhere. Legal proceedings often taken several months (or even years) and costs are generally not recoverable in the Employment Tribunal, unless one party has behaved particularly unreasonably. In our experience, if a case reaches a final hearing there are rarely any real winners, even if the decision goes your way.
There are often good reasons to settle claims. We will typically provide an early assessment of the merits of the claim, advise on its likely value and suggest some settlement parameters, to assist in formulating a commercial strategy for resolving the dispute.
However, there may be occasions where litigation is necessary or unavoidable. Employers with a reputation for settling everything can be exploited by opportunists. You may have an important point of principle to uphold or a claimant may simply be unreasonable in their expectations or demands. Where a decision is made to fight a claim, we will always look after your interests and give you realistic advice on what to expect.
We are experienced in navigating the employment tribunal process, advising on strategic options to put you on the front foot and encouraging claimants to engage in alternative dispute resolution (such as ACAS conciliation or judicial mediation). We also work with specialist employment law barristers who can represent your business and advocate on your behalf at Employment Tribunal hearings.
Get advice on resolving workplace disputes
Speak to our team for clear, practical guidance tailored to your circumstances.
