Experienced Employment Team Representing employees and employers across Scotland
Glasgow City Centre Office Strategic representation in Tribunal proceedings
Straightforward Advice Clear guidance with the jargon removed
Employment Tribunal Experience An enviable track record of winning claims

To speak with our employment law team, call 0141 221 1919 or complete our online contact form.

Specialist Employment Tribunal Lawyers

Employment Tribunal claims can involve complex legal and procedural issues. Our employment solicitors regularly advise on:

We act for both employees and employers throughout Scotland.

Understanding the Employment Tribunal Process

Employment Tribunal claims follow a formal legal procedure. Although Tribunals are generally less formal than court proceedings, strict rules and deadlines still apply.

Early legal advice can help parties understand the strength of their position, comply with procedural requirements, and prepare evidence effectively.

ACAS Early Conciliation

Before most Employment Tribunal claims can proceed, the claimant must notify ACAS and begin the Early Conciliation process.

ACAS aims to help parties resolve disputes without the need for a Tribunal hearing.

The process usually involves:

  • Submitting an Early Conciliation notification
  • Discussions with an ACAS Conciliator
  • Exploring settlement options
  • Issuing an Early Conciliation Certificate if settlement is not reached

Early settlement can often reduce legal costs, stress, and disruption for both parties.

Employment Tribunal Claim Form (ET1)

If settlement is not achieved through ACAS, a claimant may submit an ET1 claim form to the Employment Tribunal.

The ET1 sets out:

  • The details of the claim
  • Relevant background information
  • Legal complaints being pursued
  • The remedy or compensation sought

Claims must normally be submitted within strict time limits.

Employment Tribunal Response Form (ET3)

Once a claim is accepted, the employer usually has 28 days to respond using the ET3 form.

The response may:

  • Defend the claim fully
  • Admit part of the claim
  • Raise legal objections
  • Provide factual evidence supporting the employer’s position

Failure to respond within the required timescale can have serious consequences.

Preliminary Hearings

The Employment Tribunal may arrange a preliminary hearing before the final hearing takes place.

These hearings can deal with:

  • Case management directions
  • Legal or jurisdictional issues
  • Clarification of claims
  • Timetabling matters
  • Applications made by either party

Preliminary hearings often help narrow the issues in dispute before the final hearing.

Case Management Orders

Employment Judges have the power to make orders regulating how claims proceed.

This may include:

  • Disclosure of documents
  • Exchange of witness statements
  • Requests for additional information
  • Timetables for evidence
  • Amendments to claims or responses

Failure to comply with Tribunal orders can affect the progress of the case.

Settlement Discussions During Proceedings

Settlement discussions can continue throughout the Tribunal process, even after legal proceedings have started.

Many claims resolve before a final hearing through:

  • ACAS negotiations
  • Direct solicitor negotiations
  • Settlement agreements

Our employment lawyers regularly assist clients in negotiating practical and commercially sensible settlements.

Employment Tribunal Hearings

If settlement is not reached, the claim will proceed to a final hearing before the Employment Tribunal.

Hearings may involve:

  • Witness evidence
  • Cross-examination
  • Legal submissions
  • Documentary evidence
  • Decisions from the Employment Judge or Tribunal panel

The complexity and duration of hearings vary depending on the nature of the dispute.

Employment Tribunal Decisions and Appeals

At the conclusion of the hearing, the Tribunal may issue:

  • A verbal judgment
  • A reserved written judgment issued later

Where a party believes a legal error has occurred, it may be possible to:

  • Apply for reconsideration
  • Appeal on a point of law

Appeals must usually be lodged within strict deadlines.

Advice for Employees

If you are considering bringing an Employment Tribunal claim, our solicitors can advise you on:

  • The strength of your case
  • Tribunal procedures and deadlines
  • Settlement negotiations
  • Compensation claims
  • Witness and evidence preparation
  • Representation at hearings

We aim to provide straightforward advice and practical support throughout the process.

Advice for Employers

Employers facing Employment Tribunal proceedings should seek legal advice as early as possible.

Our employment lawyers assist employers with:

  • Defending Tribunal claims
  • Internal investigations
  • Witness preparation
  • Settlement negotiations
  • Procedural compliance
  • Employment law risk management

Early legal support can often help reduce costs and avoid unnecessary escalation.

Why Choose Our Glasgow Employment Lawyers?

Our employment law solicitors regularly represent clients in Employment Tribunals across Glasgow and throughout Scotland.

Clients choose our team for:

An experienced employment team that always seeks to understand your needs and will go that extra mile.
Personalised advice and support tailored to your own specific needs.
Dedicated, named solicitor, that you know and trust, and who is supported by a wider team.
Straightforward advice with the jargon removed, giving you clarity and peace of mind at all times.
A team with an enviable track record of winning claims in the Employment Tribunal.
A range of pricing options.

We understand the pressure that Tribunal claims can create and work proactively to protect our clients’ interests at every stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ACAS Early Conciliation?

It is a process aimed at resolving employment disputes before Tribunal proceedings begin.

How long do I have to make an Employment Tribunal claim?

Most claims must be submitted within three months less one day.

What is an ET1 form?

An ET1 is the formal claim form submitted to the Employment Tribunal.

Can Employment Tribunal claims settle before a hearing?

Yes. Many claims resolve through negotiation or settlement agreements.

Can employers defend Employment Tribunal claims?

Yes. Employers can defend claims and challenge allegations before the Tribunal.

Contact our Employment Tribunal Solicitors in Glasgow

Our employment law solicitors represent employees and employers across Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Dundee, and throughout Scotland in Employment Tribunal proceedings and workplace disputes.

Whether you are pursuing a claim or defending allegations before the Tribunal, our team is here to provide clear legal advice and experienced representation.

Call 0141 221 1919 or complete our online contact form to speak with our Employment Tribunal lawyers today.

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