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A settlement agreement can provide a fast, cost-effective option for resolving existing employment disputes or avoiding potential future disputes. They are commonly used during redundancy proceedings and other kinds of terminations, but can be highly effective for a wide range of employment disputes, as long as both parties involved have the right legal advice and support.
Franklins’ expert employment law solicitors, based in Northampton, are highly experienced in representing both employers and employees in settlement negotiations, creating and reviewing settlement agreements to ensure both parties’ interests are protected. With our expertise and skilled advocacy, we can help find a solution that works for everyone under even the most difficult circumstances.
A key benefit of a settlement agreement is that it allows both parties to avoid the need for an Employment Tribunal, meaning the matter is kept private and any uncertainty over the outcome is side-stepped. Voluntarily agreeing a settlement is also usually faster, cheaper and less stressful for everyone involved.
Our settlement agreement solicitors in Northampton have particular expertise in non-confrontational dispute resolution, including mediation and negotiation. This allows us to defuse any potential conflict and encourage both sides to see the benefits of a negotiated settlement. That way you can move on quickly while preserving a positive relationship where this is considered advantageous.
Whether you are currently involved in an employment dispute, or are concerned about avoiding a possible future dispute, our employment dispute resolution solicitors in Northampton can give you the expert advice and guidance you need to achieve a positive outcome.
If you need a settlement agreement solicitor in Northampton to resolve an employment dispute, we can help. Please get in touch by calling 01604 828282 or using our contact form for a prompt response.
A settlement agreement is a written agreement between an employer and employee (or former employee) in which the employee agrees they will not refer a specific matter or matters to an Employment Tribunal, normally in exchange for a one-off cash payment and/or other concessions from the employer.
Acting as a replacement for the formerly used ‘compromise agreements’, settlement agreements are a popular way to deal with both ongoing employment disputes and potential future employment disputes surrounding employee terminations. However, they are also used for various other types of employment issues, including those related to discrimination and workplace harassment.
The specific contents of a settlement agreement will depend on the situation and the requirements of both the employer and the employee. Typically a settlement agreement will include details such as:
For a settlement agreement to be considered legally binding it must:
Settlement agreements replaced compromise agreements in July 2013 and provide similar advantages. The main difference is that settlement agreements are designed to encourage employers and employees to negotiate a settlement before an employee’s employment is terminated, saving both parties time, money and uncertainty.
Settlement agreements of up to £30,000 are normally exempt from income tax and National Insurance. However, this is dependent on the situation, so it is important to discuss this with your legal adviser before signing the agreement.
While a settlement agreement is not strictly required during redundancy proceedings, they are increasingly commonly used as they can protect the employer from any potential future dispute over how the redundancy process was carried out.
Settlement agreement can be used for most kinds of employment disputes, such as those related to:
However, certain types of statutory claims cannot be resolved with a settlement agreement, including:
Settlement agreements must be entered into voluntarily by the employee only after taking independent legal advice and having been given reasonable time to consider the agreement. If your employer tries to pressure you into signing an agreement without either of these provisions, they will be acting unlawfully.
That said, as long as the appropriate measures are in place, signing a settlement agreement will often be in your best interest as it can save you time, money and stress, as well as giving you immediate certainty over the outcome, as opposed to going to an Employment Tribunal where there are no guarantees that you will achieve a favourable result.
Franklins Solicitors has a strong track record of helping employers and employees to resolve employment disputes, with an exceptional reputation established over more than 35 years. As a result of our extensive experience, our employment lawyers in Northampton can provide a tried and tested approach to help resolve your employment dispute faster and at lower cost to both parties.
Where a settlement agreement cannot be reached or is not appropriate, we also have the experience to ensure you have the best possible representation at an Employment Tribunal.
We have over 100 staff split between our Northampton and central Milton Keynes offices, giving us a wide range of talent and expertise to call on, no matter what issues you are facing. By combining the latest technology with the highest levels of legal expertise, we offer an accessible, convenient modern legal service to match your needs, allowing us to provide excellence as standard, not as an exception.
We are Lexcel accredited by the Law Society in recognition of the strength of our practice management and client care. We are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), providing assurance that we continually meet the highest legal and professional standards at all times.
For pragmatic, commercially-focused advice and representation to resolve your employment disputes, please get in touch with us today.
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Franklins Solicitors LLP
8 Castilian Street
Northampton
Northamptonshire
NN1 1JX
United Kingdom
Telephone: 01604 828282
Fax: 01604 609630
Email: info@franklins-sols.co.uk
Private parking spaces available with an appointment.
Directions
By appointment only
Franklins Solicitors LLP
25 Billing Road
Northampton
Northamptonshire
NN1 5AT
United Kingdom
Telephone: 01604 828282
Fax: 01604 609630
Email: info@franklins-sols.co.uk
A settlement agreement is a legally binding document between an employer and employee. It sets out the terms agreed upon when employment is coming to an end. This could include compensation, confidentiality clauses, and any additional conditions. You might need a settlement agreement to ensure a smooth and structured resolution, particularly if you’re leaving your job under agreed terms.
At Franklins Solicitors, we specialise in providing expert legal advice to ensure that your settlement agreement protects your interests and complies with all legal requirements. We’ll carefully review the agreement, explain the terms in a way you can easily understand, and negotiate better conditions for you, if necessary.
Yes, obtaining legal advice is essential. For a settlement agreement to be legally enforceable, it must be reviewed and signed by a qualified solicitor. This ensures you fully understand your obligations and rights before agreeing to the terms.Â
The good news is that most employers cover the legal fees for reviewing your settlement agreement as part of the process. If additional services, such as negotiations, are required, our team will provide transparent information about any costs before proceeding.
Absolutely. Settlement agreements are often open to negotiation. If you aren’t satisfied with the terms or feel they aren’t fair, our solicitors can advocate on your behalf. This could include securing increased compensation, extended notice periods, or other benefits.
Settlement agreements typically include confidentiality clauses that apply to both you and your employer. We will ensure you fully understand how any confidentiality terms work in your case and offer tailored advice on how these apply to your specific situation.
The timeframe depends on the complexity of the agreement and whether negotiation is required. However, our team at Franklins Solicitors aims to review and finalise settlement agreements promptly, usually within a few days, while maintaining high-quality service.
Franklins Solicitors combines 40+ years of experience with a personalised, client-focused approach. Based in Northampton, we are proud to serve the local community. We offer clear, practical, and reliable advice to guide you through every stage of the settlement agreement process, ensuring you achieve the best possible outcome.
If you have any questions about anything legal, please don’t hesitate to contact our team of experts in the Northampton offices who are on hand and ready to help you.
