Since the abolishment of tribunal fees in 2017, there has been a significant increase in the number of claims being brought by employees against their current or ex-employer.
Statistics from the Ministry of Justice show that the number of single claim receipts has increased by 9,700 (14%) in the last recorded quarter (April to June 2019) when compared to the same period in 2018. In 2018/19, the highest maximum award in the same period for unfair dismissal was £948,000.
These figures show that employees are more willing than ever to seek to bring a claim at the Employment Tribunal if they perceive that they have been treated unfairly by their employer.
Employers must ensure that they have clear and fair policies and procedures in place and that they follow them correctly.
Often, the first that an employer knows that a claim has been issued is when they are contacted by Acas or indeed, when a claim form arrives on their doorstep.
If you receive a claim, you have a limited amount of time to respond and should contact us immediately.
Our Team will assist in defending any claims. Depending on the nature of the claim, this may include applying to have the claim struck out, negotiating a settlement or representing you at the Employment Tribunal.
We can also ensure that your currently policies and procedures are up to date and fit for their intended purpose.
For more information on Employment Tribunal claims, please contact us on 0345 646 0406 or fill in our online enquiry form and a member of our Team will be in touch.