Employment Law for employees

If you're experiencing difficulties at work, such as being treated unfairly, not getting paid what you deserve, or being discriminated against, we're here to support you. We're experts in settlement agreements and other legal issues related to personal employment. If you've got work-related worries, count on us to provide the advice and assistance you need. You typically have just three months to take action against your employer if you wish to proceed to an employment tribunal, so time really is of the essence.

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Karen Bussell, Personal Employment solicitor in Plymouth, Nash & Co Solicitors

How we can help you

If you think that you've been treated unjustly or unfairly by your current, past, or future employer, our expert legal team is here to help you. You typically have less than three months to take action against your employer if you wish to proceed to an employment tribunal, so time is of the essence.

Of course, not all situations end up going to a tribunal: it might be that you need help with a settlement offer, or need help in resolving disputes with your employer. Our seasoned team combines years of legal practice with a practical approach to offer guidance on an array of workplace-related issues. We step in to support individuals when they encounter challenges at work. These can be extremely intricate and delicate, so we will always present our client with the options available to them and our advice in relation to next steps in each case.

call Speak to one of our Employment Solicitors on 01752 827016

Sharmaine Nethercott, Personal Employment Solicitor in Plymouth at Nash & Co Solicitors

Settlement Agreements

A settlement agreement is a contract between you and your employer used to resolve employment law disputes. When you sign a settlement agreement, you normally agree to waive all your claims against your employer, and your employer will usually agree to terms such as paying you a sum of money or agreeing to give you a reference. The agreement will also usually end your employment on agreed terms and there will be a confidentiality clause preventing you from discussing your dispute with anyone else.

If you're offered a Settlement Agreement, it's essential to seek independent legal advice before signing anything. Our experienced and specialist employment solicitors will help you understand the terms of the agreement, and ensure you're making an informed decision.

An employee in discussion with their employer who is taking notes alongside text about Settlement Agreements

Typically, the employer will cover the cost of the legal advice needed to review and understand the Settlement Agreement. The contribution towards the legal fees will usually be outlined in the agreement itself; however, if negotiations are lengthy and exceed the employer's contribution, you may have to pay the additional legal fees.

It’s important to remember that Settlement Agreements are not 'take it or leave it' deals. You can negotiate terms such as the amount of financial compensation, the wording of any reference, and any restrictions on future employment.

Louis Brown, Employment solicitor at Nash & Co Solicitors in Plymouth

Resolving workplace disputes

Employment disputes can be stressful, and upsetting and, because of this, it’s usually best to resolve the issue without the need for employment tribunal proceedings. Our specialist lawyers have the experience and knowledge to help you do just this.

We’ll help you find the best possible solution, and we’ll always set our your options, so that you’re clear on how you would like to proceed. These could range from raising a formal grievance with your employer, using alternative dispute resolution such as mediation, or whether you should proceed to seeking assistance through ACAS as a first step to making a claim through an employment tribunal.

A stressed employee staring at a laptop alongside text about Employment Tribunal costs

Employment Tribunal Costs

The cost to pursue a claim depends on the nature of the claim itself, the number of witnesses involved and the length of the hearing. As a general estimate, the cost of preparing for the Tribunal hearing is:

Simple case such as unpaid wages or a straightforward unfair dismissal claim: £5,000 -£7,500 (excluding VAT)

Medium complexity case such as sex discrimination or a constructive unfair dismissal case: £7,500-£10,000 (excluding VAT)

High complexity case such as disability discrimination or whistleblowing: £10,000-£20,000 (excluding VAT)

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Fill out the form below and let us know whether you would like us to call you, or email you. One of our Commercial Dispute Resolution team will be in touch as soon as we can. If your enquiry is urgent then please call us on 01752 827016.

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