Employment Law
Expert employment law services protecting both employers and employees across all workplace matters.
Employment Law
Our employment law team provides comprehensive legal services covering all aspects of workplace relations, from contract negotiations to tribunal representation. We understand the complexities of modern employment law and provide practical, commercially-focused advice.
Our Services
- Employment contract drafting and review
- Disciplinary and grievance procedures
- Redundancy and restructuring advice
- Employment tribunal representation
- HR policy development
- Executive and senior management advice
Specialised Services
Employment Contracts
Comprehensive employment contract services including drafting, reviewing, and negotiating terms.
Discrimination Claims
Expert representation in discrimination cases covering all protected characteristics.
Unfair Dismissal
Comprehensive unfair dismissal services for both employees and employers.
Redundancy
Expert redundancy advice covering consultation, selection, and compensation.
Workplace Harassment
Comprehensive workplace harassment prevention and resolution services for employers and employees.
Disciplinary Procedures
Expert guidance on fair and legally compliant disciplinary procedures for employers and employees.
Whistleblowing Protection
Comprehensive whistleblowing protection services for employees reporting wrongdoing in the workplace.
Workplace Wellbeing & Mental Health
Legal support for workplace mental health issues, stress management, and employee wellbeing initiatives.
Why Choose Gardner Champion?
- Experienced employment law specialists
- Practical, business-focused advice
- Strong track record in employment tribunals
- Proactive HR support and training
Need expert legal advice?
Contact us for a personalized consultation and quote for your specific legal needs. All our fees exclude VAT.
Get Free ConsultationDetailed Information
Why Employment Law Matters
For Employers
As an employer, you need to ensure compliance with ever-changing employment legislation while maintaining productive working relationships. We help you develop robust HR policies, handle difficult employee situations, and protect your business from costly employment disputes. Our proactive approach helps prevent problems before they arise, saving you time, money, and stress.
For Employees
As an employee, you have rights that must be protected. Whether you're facing discrimination, unfair treatment, wrongful dismissal, or other workplace issues, our team will fight for your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome. We understand the emotional and financial impact of employment disputes and provide compassionate, effective representation.
Our Approach to Employment Law
Prevention Over Cure
We work proactively with employers to develop comprehensive HR policies and procedures that prevent disputes from arising. This includes regular training sessions, policy reviews, and ongoing compliance monitoring.
Strategic Resolution
When disputes do arise, we focus on finding the most efficient and cost-effective resolution. This might involve informal negotiations, formal mediation, or, when necessary, robust tribunal representation.
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Request a free estimateFrequently Asked Questions
Help Guides
How to Handle a Workplace Dispute
A step-by-step guide to resolving workplace disputes effectively and protecting your rights.
Step-by-Step Process
- 1Document everything: Keep detailed records of all incidents, conversations, and relevant communications.
- 2Review your contract and company policies to understand your rights and obligations.
- 3Try informal resolution first by speaking with your manager or HR department.
- 4If informal resolution fails, consider filing a formal grievance following your company's procedure.
- 5Seek legal advice if the matter remains unresolved or if you're considering legal action.
- 6Gather supporting evidence including witness statements, emails, and relevant documents.
- 7Consider alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or ACAS conciliation.
- 8If necessary, pursue formal legal action through employment tribunals or courts.
Helpful Tips
- Act quickly as there are strict time limits for employment claims
- Keep all communications professional and factual
- Consider the impact on your career before taking formal action
- Document everything from the beginning of any dispute
Important Warnings
- Don't resign without seeking advice as this may affect your ability to claim unfair dismissal
- Be careful about what you post on social media during a dispute
- Don't breach confidentiality or disclose confidential information
Preparing for an Employment Tribunal
Essential steps to prepare for employment tribunal proceedings and maximize your chances of success.
Step-by-Step Process
- 1Gather all relevant documents including contracts, policies, emails, and correspondence.
- 2Prepare a detailed chronology of events with dates and key facts.
- 3Identify and contact potential witnesses who can support your case.
- 4Complete the tribunal application form accurately and within time limits.
- 5Prepare your witness statement and supporting evidence.
- 6Attend any preliminary hearings and follow tribunal directions.
- 7Consider settlement negotiations if appropriate.
- 8Prepare for the final hearing including cross-examination practice.
Helpful Tips
- Be honest and consistent in all your statements
- Practice explaining your case clearly and concisely
- Dress appropriately for the tribunal hearing
- Arrive early and be prepared for a long day
Important Warnings
- Don't lie or exaggerate as this will damage your credibility
- Don't ignore tribunal directions or deadlines
- Be prepared for the emotional stress of the process
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Additional Information
Our Process
Our employment law process begins with a detailed consultation to understand your situation and objectives. We'll assess your case, explain your options, and develop a strategy tailored to your needs. For employers, this might involve policy development, training, or dispute resolution. For employees, we focus on protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome. We keep you informed throughout the process and work efficiently to resolve matters as quickly as possible.
Timeline
Timeline varies depending on the complexity of your case. Simple contract reviews can be completed within a few days, while complex tribunal cases may take several months. We'll provide realistic timelines at the outset and keep you updated on progress. Most employment disputes can be resolved within 3-6 months, though some complex cases may take longer.
Costs & Fees
We offer flexible fee arrangements including fixed fees for straightforward matters and hourly rates for complex cases. All our legal fees exclude VAT. Many employment matters are eligible for legal aid or no-win-no-fee arrangements. We'll discuss costs upfront and ensure you understand all potential expenses. For employers, we can provide cost-effective retainer arrangements for ongoing HR support.
What You'll Need
- Employment contract and any variations
- Company handbook and policies
- Correspondence and emails related to the matter
- Witness statements and contact details
- Financial records (for compensation claims)
- Medical reports (for disability discrimination cases)
- Performance reviews and disciplinary records
- Any previous legal correspondence
Pricing & Service Information
Our Legal Fees
£1,500 - £5,000+ VAT
For employment tribunal representation (unfair dismissal and wrongful dismissal claims)
VAT at 20% will be added to all our legal fees
Additional Costs (Disbursements)
These are costs paid to third parties on your behalf:
Employment tribunal fees
No tribunal fees for bringing claims
Expert witness reports
Medical or financial expert reports if required
Counsel fees for hearing
Barrister representation at final hearing (if required)
What's Included
- Initial case assessment and advice on merits
- Preparation of tribunal application or response
- Gathering and reviewing all evidence
- Witness statement preparation
- Correspondence with other party and tribunal
- Case management hearing attendance
- Full tribunal hearing representation
- Settlement negotiations throughout the process
- Regular updates and progress reports
What's Not Included
- Barrister fees (if representation needed at final hearing)
- Expert witness reports beyond basic case requirements
- Costs of obtaining medical or other evidence
- Appeal to Employment Appeal Tribunal
- Enforcement of tribunal awards
Typical Timescales
6-12 months from initial instruction to final hearing
Many cases settle before final hearing. Timeline depends on tribunal availability, case complexity, and whether interim applications are required. Early conciliation through ACAS typically adds 4-6 weeks before tribunal claim can be lodged.
Key Stages of Your Matter
Initial Consultation & Case Assessment
We assess the merits of your case and advise on prospects of success
ACAS Early Conciliation
Mandatory conciliation period before tribunal claim (4-6 weeks)
Tribunal Claim Preparation
Detailed claim form (ET1) drafted with full particulars and evidence
Evidence Gathering & Disclosure
Collecting documents, preparing witness statements, exchanging evidence
Preliminary Hearing (if required)
Case management hearing to set directions and timescales
Settlement Negotiations
Ongoing negotiations to achieve settlement without full hearing
Final Hearing Preparation
Finalizing witness statements, preparing hearing bundle, briefing counsel
Final Hearing & Judgment
Full tribunal hearing with judgment and remedy determination
Example Pricing Scenarios
Simple unfair dismissal claim
Straightforward case, settles before final hearing
£2,400-£3,000 (inc VAT)
Complex unfair dismissal with discrimination
Multiple claims, full tribunal hearing required
£5,400-£7,200 (inc VAT)
Wrongful dismissal (breach of contract)
Contract claim with notice pay dispute
£2,100-£3,600 (inc VAT)
Get Expert Legal Advice
Contact our employment law specialists for a consultation.