Do not drown under the paperwork, contact an employment solicitor
In recent weeks there have been protests in London regarding the new employment tribunal fees that have come into force. Employees are facing payments of up to £1,200 if they wish to have their unfair dismissal cases heard. Lawyers and the unions predict that these new fees will cause chaos and members made their feelings clear by staging a protest outside one of the employment tribunals located in central London.
Bad News for Employees?[/b]
What does this new fee mean? Employees who feel they have been wrongfully terminated could find it difficult to have their case heard. Thanks to the fees, it will make it hard for some people to find justice if they have indeed been fired without just cause. Many people fear that up to 150,000 people will be affected by the changes and that bad employers will be given the green light to exploit their staff.
The good news is that unions have come out in force to support employees. They have stated that they will support their members by helping them financially should they wish to have their case heard. Furthermore, there are campaigners fighting to have the new legislation overturned.
What You Can Do If You Suspect Wrongful Termination of Your Contract[/b]
If you have been dismissed from your job and you do not think that you have been given fair treatment, you do not have to simply sit back and take it. You have rights and you can fight the dismissal where you have been made redundant, have a permanent, fixed term or temporary contract.
You have the right to:
Appeal any formal disciplinary action that was taken against you
Have a copy of the disciplinary procedure
Know what you have been accused of and why you were fired
Be given advanced noticed of the meeting regarding your dismissal
Take a companion with you
Be paid if you have been suspended before the meeting with your employer
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If you believe you have been unfairly dismissed after meeting with your employer, you can make a claim to the employment tribunal up to three months after your contract came to an end.
Employment Tribunals[/b]
Employment tribunals listen to claims from employees regarding unfair dismissal, discrimination and redundancy payments and wages or any other payments. It is like going to court but the ordeal is less formal. You and your employer will both have a chance of having your points heard and the independent judicial bodies make a decision based on the arguments.
Coming to a Compromise[/b]
Sometimes compromise agreements are used to settle disputes. You can still receive compensation such as agreeing to accept a lump sum in return for not taking the action further. If you do sign a compromise agreement London, you would not be able to continue with any of your claims. If you are not sure of the right action to take, you should contact a professional to help you so get in touch with employment solicitors and talk through the options you have so you can make the best decision.