Employment Disputes
Resolving disputes in the workplace requires an in-depth understanding of an organisation, its needs and priorities, and the people involved. Our lawyers have the emotional intelligence, commercial understanding and legal expertise to guide you towards a practical resolution.
Experience
Our specialist experience allows us to implement the appropriate procedures, handle unexpected curveballs and explore alternative solutions to employment tribunal proceedings, such as mediation. Our market-leading safeguarding work has given us expertise in crisis management and a deep understanding of the challenges that organisations can face. We work hand-in-hand with key stakeholders, from human resources and senior management to compliance and reputation management, to handle time-critical, complex and sensitive matters. We offer immediate advice on first steps when handling a dispute and provide ongoing support to ensure procedures stay on the right track.
Employment tribunal litigation
It is not always possible to avoid employment tribunal litigation when dealing with disputes. We understand the pressures and sensitivities which come with employment tribunal proceedings, and our team have the knowledge and insight to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you. While litigation is never a desired outcome, we can provide holistic support when it arises, taking a practical and realistic approach. We evaluate risks and opportunity, as well as publicity and costs, at the earliest possible stage, and give advice on appropriate settlement and negotiation strategies throughout.
We appreciate that not all cases can or should be settled, for example where the other side’s expectations are unrealistic or wider principles are at stake. Where cases do go to a full hearing, we can be relied on for our practical expertise, technical knowledge and attention to detail.
For more information on our pricing structure click here.
Trade unions
Many of our clients have recognised trade unions and we are therefore used to advising on trade union recognition and collective bargaining issues, as well as strike action. We also have experience of liaising with trade union representatives when seeking to resolve specific employee relations issues.
High court litigation
Not all employment matters can be dealt with by the Employment Tribunal. For those that require resolution in the High Court or Court of Appeal, we have extensive experience and technical expertise in representing clients in High Court disputes. This includes pursuing and defending claims regarding breaches of confidentiality or fiduciary duties and the enforcement of restrictive covenants, as well as litigation concerning bonuses and connected shareholder issues.
We act on all sides – whether you are a claimant pursuing former employees for breach of employment or post termination obligations, a new employer accused of inducing breaches of contract or a senior executive or partner accused of breaching your duty of fidelity, fiduciary obligations, confidentiality or restrictive covenants, we have seen it all and apply our experience to pursuing or defending cases robustly, commercially and tactically. See our page on Restrictive Covenants for more information about the work done by our employee competition lawyers.
