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An employment dispute of any kind can be a stressful and challenging experience. It can result in loss of income and potentially damage your future career prospects.
We will ensure that your dispute is handled in the best possible way and will strive to achieve a positive outcome from the situation.
We have extensive experience representing our clients in a range of employment disputes including breach of contract, unfair and wrongful dismissal, discrimination, bullying, harassment, work-related stress and contractual disputes.
With strong skills in negotiation and alternative dispute resolution, we will work to find a positive way forward without the need for an Employment Tribunal or court action.
However, where this is required, we have the necessary expertise to advocate for your employment rights and secure a result that helps you move forward.
If you are facing a dispute at work and would like to talk to our East London employment dispute solicitors, ring us on 0208 989 3000. Or use our simple contact form to request a call back and we will be happy to answer your questions.
Why choose Huggins Lewis Foskett for your employment dispute?
Our employment law team has decades of experience assisting employees at every level, from job applicants and entry-level workers to senior executives and directors. With in-depth expertise in all aspects of employment law, we will simplify the process, providing you with a clear understanding of your rights and the outcomes of taking legal action.
We are dedicated to safeguarding your employment rights and achieving the best possible outcome for you. We have a strong expertise in negotiation and alternative dispute resolution and we strive to find positive resolutions without resorting to an Employment Tribunal. If legal action becomes necessary, you can rely on our experienced team for strong representation, ensuring a fair result on your behalf.
Our employment dispute service
Workplace complaints
When you face a workplace dispute or issue, our employment dispute lawyers are ready to offer support and guidance right from the start.
Often, disputes can be resolved amicably through discussions and negotiations. We can help you initiate informal conversations with your employer or former employer, help gather and prepare evidence, or draft a formal written complaint on your behalf if escalating the dispute becomes necessary. Our goal is to make the process clear and accessible, providing the assistance you need at every stage.
Settlement agreements
Employers generally prefer resolving employment disputes without going to an Employment Tribunal to protect their reputation. One effective way is through negotiating a settlement agreement with the employee.
A settlement agreement is a formal arrangement where the employer agrees to terms like:
- Paying a sum of money
- Ceasing unlawful treatment
- Terminating employment
In return, the employee agrees to waive claims, and they will no longer be able to take the employer to an Employment Tribunal. This agreement only becomes binding after receiving independent legal advice.
Employers often cover the legal fees associated with the settlement agreement to avoid Tribunal proceedings. Consequently, settlement agreement negotiations offer employees a successful, low-risk approach to resolving employment disputes.
ACAS early conciliation
Before initiating an Employment Tribunal claim, you will have the option to engage in ACAS Early Conciliation. We can advocate for you in discussions with an ACAS conciliator, serving as a mediator between you and your employer or former employer.
Participation in Early Conciliation is optional, however, if you decide it's not suitable for you, you must still contact ACAS to obtain a reference number before proceeding with your claim to the Employment Tribunal.
Employment Tribunal
If you and your employer can't agree in settlement discussions or Early Conciliation, we can help you start a claim with the Employment Tribunal.
If you decide to proceed, our Employment Tribunal solicitors can offer advice on the strength of your claim, explain the relevant laws, help with documentation (including evidence and witnesses), offer strong representation in the Tribunal hearing, and seek costs from your employer if you win.
Our aim is to assist you throughout, ensuring you understand the process and providing support in pursuing an Employment Tribunal claim.
Everything you need to know about employment disputes
What counts as an employment dispute?
An employment dispute is a conflict between employers and employees, over issues such as unfair treatment, discrimination, harassment, wrongful dismissal, or contractual disagreements.
These disputes may be resolved through informal discussions, mediation, or formal legal proceedings, such as an Employment Tribunal.
How do I know I have a valid case for an employment dispute?
You may have a valid case for an employment dispute if you have experienced issues such as breach of contract, unfair and wrongful dismissal, discrimination, bullying, harassment, work-related stress, unfair treatment or contractual disputes.
It is advisable to seek the guidance of an employment dispute lawyer who can assess the specifics of your situation and determine the strength of your case.
How are employment disputes settled?
A dispute with an employer can be settled through various means, including informal discussions, mediation, settlement agreements, or formal legal processes such as Employment Tribunal proceedings. The resolution method depends on the nature of the dispute and the parties involved.
How long does an employment dispute typically take to resolve?
The time it takes to resolve an employment dispute varies depending on the complexity of the case, how long negotiation takes and whether legal action is taken. Some cases may settle in a matter of weeks through informal means, while cases involving tribunals, can take several months.
What kind of compensation can I expect if my employment dispute is successful?
Successful resolution of an employment dispute may lead to compensation, which can include financial awards for lost earnings, redundancy payments or compensation for the emotional turmoil and stress caused. The specific compensation will depend on the nature of the dispute and how it is resolved.
Our employment dispute fees
We understand that you may be concerned about the financial implications of pursuing a claim against your employer.
We strive for transparency in our pricing, ensuring you have a clear understanding of costs before making any decisions.
In certain situations, your employer may cover the expenses for your legal advice. This is typically the case when a settlement agreement is offered to resolve a dispute, and your employer is likely to cover the cost of independent legal advice for you, as it is a requirement for the agreement to be legally binding.
When you bear the cost of your legal advice, we will keep you informed about fees and any associated expenses throughout the process.
For an overview of our fees, please refer to our pricing page.
Our employment dispute team
Fee Earners
Secretaries
Teresa Tapster
Leah Caroo
Speak to our employment dispute solicitors in East London
Need clear, professional guidance on an employment dispute or any related issues?
Call our employment dispute solicitors in East London now on 0208 989 3000. Or use the simple contact form below and we will get back to you soon.
