Tribunal claims are on the rise. We saw a dramatic drop off of tribunal claims once fees were introduced and the number of employment judges, tribunal staff and Acas officers also fell. Now that fees have been abolished, tribunal staff are seriously struggling with the number of new cases they are receiving. Most claims are now being listed for preliminary hearings some 2 to 3 months ahead, with full hearings being listed some 6 to 9 months ahead. So what does this mean for employers?
Firstly, you may think that you have 'gotten away' with a dismissal only to find that it has come back to bite you. Secondly you may have to account for a dismissal that took place months ago and to then best you can to defend your decision. Remember that ALL employees. irrespective of their length of service with you, have the right to bring a tribunal claim against you and will no doubt be encouraged by their union representatives, their colleagues and their friends to do so.
We can help you with all aspects of employment tribunal claims and protect you from the consequences of tribunal awards.