Employment Law

Employment Contracts

Definition: Employment contracts establish the terms and conditions of employment between an employer and an employee. They outline rights, responsibilities, and obligations for both parties.

Key Points: Employment contracts may include provisions regarding job duties, working hours, remuneration, benefits, notice periods, and termination procedures.

Discrimination Law

Definition: Discrimination law prohibits unfair treatment and discrimination against individuals in the workplace based on protected characteristics, such as age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or pregnancy.

Key Points: It is illegal for employers to discriminate in recruitment, hiring, promotion, training, and terms of employment. Employees have the right to equality and protection against discrimination.

Health and Safety Law

Definition: Health and safety law aims to protect the health, safety, and welfare of employees in the workplace. It sets out standards and requirements for maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.

Key Points: Employers have a duty to assess and manage workplace risks, provide appropriate training, implement safety measures, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

Unfair Dismissal

Definition: Unfair dismissal refers to terminating an employee’s contract without a fair reason or without following the proper procedures outlined in employment law.

Key Points: Employees have protection against unfair dismissal after completing a minimum period of continuous employment. Dismissals must be based on fair grounds, such as misconduct, redundancy, capability, or legal reasons.

Redundancy

Definition: Redundancy occurs when an employer needs to reduce the workforce due to a business closure, workplace closure, or a reduced need for employees in a particular role.

Key Points: Employers must follow specific procedures when making employees redundant, including consultation, offering suitable alternative employment where possible, and providing appropriate redundancy pay.

Maternity and Paternity Rights

Definition: Maternity and paternity rights protect the rights of employees who are expecting a child or becoming parents. These rights include maternity leave, paternity leave, and parental leave.

Key Points: Employees have the right to take time off work for antenatal care, maternity leave, and receive statutory maternity pay. Fathers and partners also have rights to paternity leave and pay.

Equality and Diversity

Definition: Equality and diversity in the workplace promote equal opportunities and inclusivity. It ensures that individuals are treated fairly regardless of their characteristics or background.

Key Points: Employers have a responsibility to foster an inclusive workplace, prevent discrimination, and promote equality through policies, training, and fair treatment of all employees.

Wage and Hour Laws

Definition: Wage and hour laws establish minimum wage rates, working hours, overtime pay, and other regulations related to employee compensation.

Key Points: Employers must comply with minimum wage laws, ensure employees receive proper pay for their work, and provide accurate records of working hours.

Whistleblowing

Definition: Whistleblowing protection encourages employees to report wrongdoing or illegal activities within their organization without fear of retaliation.

Key Points: Employees who disclose information about illegal activities, negligence, or malpractice in the workplace are protected from unfair treatment or dismissal as a result of their whistleblowing actions.

Employment Tribunals

Definition: Employment tribunals are independent bodies that hear and resolve disputes between employers and employees relating to employment rights and claims.

Key Points: Employees can take their cases to an employment tribunal if they believe their employment rights have been violated. Tribunals have the power to make legally binding decisions and award compensation.

Employment Law

  • About Employment Law

    Employment law has become so complex, and the potential risks and costs involved so significant, that seeking advice from a specialist is vital. At Sky Solicitors Ltd, we provide a professional, friendly and efficient service in all areas of Employment Law, whether contentious or non-contentious.

    We understand how important your job is to you and the stress that it can cause if you have any difficulties at work. UK Employment Law is a complex, ever changing area and finding out what rights you have as an employee can seem a very daunting task.

    In addition to supporting and advising clients through the internal stages of disciplinary, grievance, and appeal hearings we are engaged cases in Employment Tribunals and Employment Appeal Tribunal across the UK.

    To find out more about Employmnet Claim process, how it looks like and the likely timescale please click here!

  • What We Can Help You With

    If you are experiencing problems at work, such as bullying and harassment or discrimination, e.g. sex discrimination, race discrimination, disability discrimination, age discrimination, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or discrimination on the basis of religion or belief, Sky Solicitors Ltd’s Employment Law Team can help you.
    Sky Solicitors Ltd can also advise you regarding pregnancy and work, maternity leave, paternity leave and flexible working. We represent many clients who have employment grievances, employment appeals, redundancy, maternity leave or paternity leave problems.
    Sky Solicitors specialize in all aspects of employment law including redundancy, equal pay claims, breach of contract issues, unfair dismissal, wrongful dismissal or constructive unfair dismissal or retirement.
    We can also help with negotiations in compromise agreements.
  • Why Choose Us

    Our Team consists of trainee solicitor Mr Richard Hopkin and qualified solicitors namely Salman Randhawa and Chinonso Ijezie, both have more than eight years of post-qualification experience.
  • Funding Your Case

    We are specialists in Employment Law, and we at Sky Solicitors pride ourselves in obtaining the best possible results for employees who are facing legal problems at work.

    Sky Solicitors Ltd employment law team can advise you on both the strengths and weaknesses of your case and, where possible, we’ll ensure you are aware of all the legal aspects of your case before you even bring a claim. We will not mislead you and never encourage submitting a claim where we feel there is no real prospect of the case being successful or that there is a risk that a costs order could be awarded against you for the other side’s legal bill.

    We are specialists in Employment Law, and we at Sky Solicitors pride ourselves in obtaining the best possible results for employees who are facing legal problems at work.
    Our legal team include solicitors of more than 8 years of post-qualification experience, specialise in Employment Law.
    Our trainee solicitors and paralegal staff work under close supervision of the qualified solicitors.
    We take pride in obtaining the best possible results for our clients who have been facing legal problems at work.

  • Our Employment Team

    We are specialists in Employment Law, and we at Sky Solicitors pride ourselves in obtaining the best possible results for employees who are facing legal problems at work.

    Sky Solicitors Ltd employment law team can advise you on both the strengths and weaknesses of your case and, where possible, we’ll ensure you are aware of all the legal aspects of your case before you even bring a claim. We will not mislead you and never encourage submitting a claim where we feel there is no real prospect of the case being successful or that there is a risk that a costs order could be awarded against you for the other side’s legal bill.

    We are specialists in Employment Law, and we at Sky Solicitors pride ourselves in obtaining the best possible results for employees who are facing legal problems at work.
    Our legal team include solicitors of more than 8 years of post-qualification experience, specialise in Employment Law.
    Our trainee solicitors and paralegal staff work under close supervision of the qualified solicitors.
    We take pride in obtaining the best possible results for our clients who have been facing legal problems at work.

FAQ

  • Employment Contracts

    Q: What is an employment contract, and what does it entail?
    A: An employment contract is a legally binding agreement between an employer and an employee. It outlines the terms and conditions of employment, including job responsibilities, working hours, remuneration, benefits, notice periods, and other essential provisions. At Sky Solicitors, we can review, draft, and negotiate employment contracts to ensure your rights and interests are protected.

    Q: What should I do if I believe my employment contract has been breached?
    A: If you believe your employment contract has been breached, it’s crucial to seek legal advice promptly. Sky Solicitors can assess the situation, review the terms of your contract, and provide guidance on the appropriate course of action. We can help you pursue remedies such as seeking compensation for damages or enforcing the terms of the contract through negotiation or legal proceedings.

  • Discrimination Law

    Q: What does discrimination law cover in the workplace?
    A: Discrimination law prohibits unfair treatment and discrimination in the workplace based on protected characteristics such as age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or pregnancy. It covers various areas, including recruitment, hiring, promotion, training, working conditions, and termination. At Sky Solicitors, we specialize in handling discrimination cases, providing legal advice, representation, and assistance in filing claims to protect your rights.

    Q: What should I do if I believe I have experienced workplace discrimination?
    A: If you believe you have experienced workplace discrimination, it’s crucial to gather evidence and seek legal advice promptly. Sky Solicitors can help assess the validity of your claim, guide you through the internal grievance process, and assist in filing a discrimination claim with the appropriate authorities or employment tribunal. We will work diligently to protect your rights and seek appropriate remedies.

  • Health and Safety Law

    Q: What are my rights regarding health and safety in the workplace?
    A: As an employee, you have the right to a safe and healthy work environment. Employers have a legal obligation to assess and manage workplace risks, provide appropriate training, implement safety measures, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. If you have concerns about health and safety in your workplace, Sky Solicitors can provide advice on your rights, help you address the issue internally, and assist in making a claim if necessary.

    Q: What can I do if my employer fails to provide a safe working environment?
    A: If your employer fails to provide a safe working environment, it’s important to address the issue promptly. You should report your concerns to your employer or the designated health and safety representative. If the matter is not resolved, Sky Solicitors can guide you on filing a complaint with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or pursuing legal action to protect your rights and seek appropriate remedies.

  • Unfair Dismissal

    Q: What is considered unfair dismissal, and what are my rights in such cases?
    A: Unfair dismissal refers to terminating an employee’s contract without a fair reason or without following proper procedures. Employees with at least two years of continuous employment have protection against unfair dismissal. Sky Solicitors can assess the circumstances surrounding your dismissal, evaluate the fairness of the reasons provided, and guide you through the process of filing an unfair dismissal claim with the employment tribunal if necessary.

    Q: How can Sky Solicitors help me if I believe I have been unfairly dismissed?
    A: If you believe you have been unfairly dismissed, Sky Solicitors can provide comprehensive legal support. We will assess the circumstances leading to your dismissal, review the documentation, gather evidence, and advise you on the strength of your claim. Our experienced employment law team can represent you in negotiations, settlement discussions, or employment tribunal proceedings to seek compensation or reinstatement, ensuring your rights are protected.

  • Redundancy

    Q: What is redundancy, and what are my rights in a redundancy situation?
    A: Redundancy occurs when an employer needs to reduce the workforce due to business closure, workplace closure, or a diminished need for employees in a particular role. Employees have certain rights in a redundancy situation, including consultation, the right to suitable alternative employment where available, and entitlement to redundancy pay based on their length of service. At Sky Solicitors, we can guide you through the redundancy process, assess the fairness of the procedure, and ensure you receive the appropriate entitlements.

    Q: Can I challenge a redundancy decision if I believe it was unfair or not handled properly?
    A: Yes, if you believe a redundancy decision was unfair or not handled properly, you have the right to challenge it. Sky Solicitors can review the circumstances surrounding your redundancy, assess the fairness of the selection process, and advise you on the options available. We can guide you through internal procedures, negotiate on your behalf, or represent you in an employment tribunal to seek appropriate remedies if required.

  • Maternity and Paternity Rights

    Q: What rights do I have as an employee regarding maternity leave and pay?
    A: As an employee, you have various rights regarding maternity leave and pay. These include the right to take maternity leave, receive statutory maternity pay or maternity allowance, and be protected against unfair treatment or dismissal due to pregnancy or maternity. Sky Solicitors can provide guidance on your rights, help you navigate the maternity process, and assist if any issues arise, such as discrimination or unfair treatment.

    Q: Do fathers and partners have rights to paternity leave and pay?
    A: Yes, fathers and partners have rights to paternity leave and pay. This includes the right to take either one or two weeks of paternity leave, depending on eligibility, and receive statutory paternity pay or shared parental pay. Sky Solicitors can provide advice on your rights as a father or partner and assist you in asserting those rights if necessary.

  • Equality and Diversity

    Q: What does equality and diversity mean in the workplace?
    A: Equality and diversity in the workplace refer to fostering a fair and inclusive environment where individuals are treated equally and respectfully, regardless of their characteristics or background. Employers have a responsibility to promote equality, prevent discrimination, and create policies and practices that ensure equal opportunities for all employees. Sky Solicitors can advise employers on implementing effective equality and diversity practices and assist employees who have experienced discrimination or unfair treatment.

    Q: How can Sky Solicitors help me if I have experienced workplace discrimination or inequality?
    A: If you have experienced workplace discrimination or inequality, Sky Solicitors can provide legal advice and representation. We will assess the circumstances, gather evidence, and advise you on the available options. Our experienced employment law team can guide you through internal grievance procedures, negotiate on your behalf, or represent you in legal proceedings to seek appropriate remedies and ensure your rights are protected.

  • Wage and Hour Laws

    Q: What are my rights regarding minimum wage and working hours?
    A: Employees have the right to be paid at least the National Minimum Wage or the National Living Wage, depending on their age and employment status. There are also regulations in place to protect employees from excessive working hours, ensuring adequate rest breaks and time off. Sky Solicitors can provide advice on your rights, assist in addressing wage-related issues, and help ensure compliance with wage and hour laws.

    Q: What should I do if my employer fails to pay me the minimum wage or breaches working hour regulations?
    A: If your employer fails to pay you the minimum wage or breaches working hour regulations, it’s essential to address the issue promptly. Sky Solicitors can assess your situation, gather evidence, and advise you on the appropriate course of action. We can help you pursue remedies such as recovering unpaid wages, enforcing your rights, or taking legal action if necessary.

  • Whistleblowing

    Q: What protections do I have if I want to report wrongdoing within my organization?
    A: Whistleblowing protection aims to encourage employees to report wrongdoing or illegal activities within their organization without fear of retaliation. If you make a protected disclosure, you have legal rights and protections against unfair treatment or dismissal as a result. Sky Solicitors can provide advice on whistleblowing laws, help you understand your rights, and assist in protecting you if you decide to blow the whistle on misconduct.

    Q: Can Sky Solicitors assist me if I face retaliation or unfair treatment for whistleblowing?
    A: Absolutely. If you face retaliation or unfair treatment for whistleblowing, Sky Solicitors can provide legal support and representation. We will assess your case, gather evidence, and advise you on the best course of action. Our experienced employment law team can help protect your rights, negotiate on your behalf, or represent you in legal proceedings to seek appropriate remedies and ensure your whistleblowing protections are upheld.

  • Employment Tribunals

    Q: What is an employment tribunal, and when can I take my case to one?
    A: An employment tribunal is an independent body that hears and resolves disputes between employers and employees regarding employment rights and claims. You can take your case to an employment tribunal if you believe your employment rights have been violated, such as unfair dismissal, discrimination, or unpaid wages, and you have been unable to resolve the issue through other means. Sky Solicitors can assess the merits of your case, guide you through the tribunal process, and represent you effectively to seek a fair resolution.

    Q: How can Sky Solicitors assist me in an employment tribunal?
    A: Sky Solicitors has significant experience representing clients in employment tribunal cases. We can provide expert advice on the strengths of your case, assist with gathering evidence, and prepare robust legal arguments. Our skilled employment law team will represent you in the tribunal, cross-examine witnesses, and present your case with the aim of securing a favorable outcome, whether through settlement or a tribunal decision.

DISCLAIMER

The information provided in these FAQs is for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Laws and regulations regarding leasehold enfranchisement are subject to change, and the specific circumstances of each case can impact its outcome. It is advisable to consult with a professional legal service provider like Sky Solicitors to obtain up-to-date and tailored advice based on your individual situation. Sky Solicitors can assess your case, provide accurate information, and guide you through the leasehold enfranchisement process in accordance with the most current laws and legal provisions.

Note: The FAQs provided are for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. It’s always recommended to consult with a professional legal service provider like Sky Solicitors for personalized advice related to your specific situation.