Question 1

Do I need a solicitor for an Employment Tribunal?

Accepted Answer

No. There is no requirement to use a solicitor. Claimants can represent themselves or be represented by someone who is not a solicitor or barrister. Whether representation is appropriate, and by whom, depends on the complexity of the case and your circumstances.

Question 2

Can someone represent me at ACAS?

Accepted Answer

Yes. During Early Conciliation you can appoint a representative to communicate with ACAS on your behalf. WorkplaceDisputes.uk can act as your representative during this stage where appropriate.

Question 3

Can you help before I've raised a grievance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Early advice is often the most valuable. We can help you understand the situation, decide whether a grievance is the right step, and prepare it properly if it is.

Question 4

Can you help with a disciplinary hearing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can help you understand the allegations and evidence, prepare your written response and prepare for the hearing itself. Whether we can attend with you depends on your employer's policy and the circumstances.

Question 5

Can you review a settlement agreement?

Accepted Answer

We can help you assess the offer, understand your position and negotiate terms. For a settlement agreement to be legally binding you must receive advice from a relevant independent adviser on its terms and effect; we will explain how this requirement is met in your case. [Arrangements to be confirmed.]

Question 6

What is ACAS Early Conciliation?

Accepted Answer

It is a process run by ACAS that generally must be started before an Employment Tribunal claim can be issued. A conciliator offers to help both sides explore whether the dispute can be settled. Participation in discussions is voluntary, but notifying ACAS is generally a requirement.

Question 7

How long do I have to make an Employment Tribunal claim?

Accepted Answer

Most claims must be started within three months less one day of the relevant event or the termination of employment, although different rules apply to some claims and the ACAS Early Conciliation process affects how the deadline is calculated. Because the rules are strict, take advice about your specific deadline as early as possible. We do not provide an automated deadline calculator.

Question 8

Can you help organise my evidence?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Organising correspondence, building a chronology and identifying the documents that matter is a core part of what we do at every stage of a dispute.

Question 9

Can you communicate with my employer for me?

Accepted Answer

In many situations, yes — for example in settlement discussions or formal correspondence. In internal processes, employers often expect to deal with you directly, and we will help you prepare for that.

Question 10

Do you act for employers as well as employees?

Accepted Answer

No. WorkplaceDisputes.uk supports employees only and does not act for employers.

Question 11

Do you offer remote appointments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Initial consultations and most ongoing work can be conducted remotely by video or telephone.

Question 12

Do you represent clients throughout the UK?

Accepted Answer

Our focus is on workplace disputes in England and Wales. Employment law in Scotland is similar in many respects but has procedural differences, and Northern Ireland has a separate system. Please tell us where you work when you get in touch and we will let you know whether we can assist.

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