Employment Law
Practical employment advice that protects your business and your people
Employment law touches every aspect of the employer-employee relationship, from hiring to firing and everything in between. Getting it wrong can be costly, not just in tribunal awards but in management time, team morale, and reputation.
At Modern Legal, we help employers navigate employment law confidently. We provide clear, practical advice that helps you manage your workforce effectively while staying on the right side of the law. When issues arise, we work with you to find solutions that protect your business.
We understand that employment matters are often sensitive and time-pressured. That's why we're responsive, commercially-minded, and focused on practical outcomes rather than theoretical legal positions.
What We Help With
Comprehensive corporate legal services to support your business at every stage.
Employment Contracts
Robust contracts that protect your business and set clear expectations from day one.
- Executive service agreements
- Standard employment contracts
- Fixed-term contracts
- Contractor agreements
- Contract variations
Policies & Handbooks
Comprehensive policies that guide managers and protect your business.
- Employee handbooks
- Disciplinary and grievance policies
- Equal opportunities policies
- Remote working policies
- Social media policies
Disciplinary & Grievance
Guiding you through fair processes that stand up to scrutiny.
- Investigation support
- Disciplinary hearings
- Grievance handling
- Appeal management
- Documentation review
Dismissals & Exits
Managing departures fairly and minimising legal risk.
- Performance management
- Misconduct dismissals
- Redundancy processes
- Settlement agreements
- Exit negotiations
Employment Tribunal
Robust defence when claims are brought against your business.
- Claim assessment
- ACAS early conciliation
- Response preparation
- Disclosure and evidence
- Tribunal representation
Discrimination & Harassment
Handling sensitive complaints properly and protecting your business.
- Complaint investigations
- Training recommendations
- Policy reviews
- Claim defence
- Workplace culture advice
Our Approach
A straightforward process designed to get you the right advice efficiently.
Understand the Issue
We get to grips with the facts, the people involved, and your commercial objectives.
Advise on Options
We explain your legal position and the practical options available, with clear risk assessment.
Support Implementation
We help you execute your chosen approach—drafting documents, coaching on meetings, or negotiating.
Resolve & Learn
We see matters through to conclusion and help you implement improvements to prevent recurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I dismiss someone without facing a tribunal claim?
Fair dismissal requires a fair reason (conduct, capability, redundancy, etc.) and a fair process. We help you follow correct procedures that minimise tribunal risk. No process is 100% risk-free, but proper handling makes claims less likely and easier to defend.
What should I do if an employee raises a grievance?
Take it seriously and follow your grievance procedure. Investigate thoroughly, hold a formal meeting, and provide a reasoned outcome. Poor grievance handling often escalates to tribunal claims. We can guide you through the process.
Do I need written employment contracts?
You're legally required to provide a written statement of employment particulars from day one. Beyond compliance, good contracts protect your business, particularly around confidentiality, IP, and post-termination restrictions.
How do settlement agreements work?
A settlement agreement is a legally binding contract where the employee waives their right to bring claims in exchange for agreed terms (usually including a payment). The employee must receive independent legal advice for it to be valid.
What's the difference between a contractor and an employee?
This is determined by the reality of the relationship, not just the contract. Getting it wrong can result in tax liability, employment rights claims, and penalties. We can help you assess status and structure relationships correctly.
An employee has brought a tribunal claim. What now?
Don't panic, but do act quickly. You have 28 days to file a response. Contact us immediately so we can assess the claim, advise on strategy, and prepare your defence. Early engagement often leads to better outcomes.
Need Employment Law Support?
Whether you're dealing with an urgent issue or want to strengthen your employment framework, we're here to help.