Information About Employment Tribunal

What Is an Employment Tribunal?

An employment tribunal is a specialist body that resolves disputes between employees and employers. It handles claims and appeals on a range of workplace issues, from unfair dismissal to discrimination and disputes over pay.

Common cases heard at employment tribunals include:

• Unfair dismissal claims
• Discrimination based on sex, race, disability, age, religion or sexual orientation
• Redundancy disputes
• Unpaid wages or unlawful deductions
• Breaches of employment contracts
• Issues with working hours, holiday pay or other statutory rights

If you are thinking about bringing a claim, you will usually need to contact Acas first and go through early conciliation. This is a free service that tries to resolve disputes before they reach a tribunal. In most cases, only after this step can you submit your claim.

Time limits are strict. You generally have three months less one day from the date of the event you are complaining about to start early conciliation. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to bring a claim.

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Where Hearings Take Place

Employment tribunal hearings are held at dedicated tribunal offices across England, Wales and Scotland. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, video hearings have become increasingly common. Hearings may also take place by telephone, depending on the nature of the case. There are separate arrangements in Northern Ireland, where cases go to the Industrial Tribunals and Fair Employment Tribunal.

In some situations, a tribunal may use hired premises if the usual venue is unavailable or unsuitable. You should be informed of the hearing location in advance.

Although tribunals deal with legal matters, they are less formal than traditional courts. Lawyers do not wear wigs or gowns. A panel usually consists of an employment judge, who may sit alone or with two lay members. These lay members bring practical experience of workplace issues, with one typically drawn from an employer background and one from an employee or trade union background. Their perspective helps ensure decisions reflect real working environments.

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Public Hearings and Reporting Restrictions

Nearly all employment tribunal hearings are open to the public. This means anyone can attend, including journalists. If your case attracts media interest, reporters may be present and can publish details of the proceedings.

There are exceptions. If your case involves allegations of sexual misconduct, the tribunal may issue a Restricted Reporting Order. This prevents the media from identifying you or other individuals involved until the case is concluded, or in some instances permanently. The tribunal can also make similar orders in cases involving confidential personal information or where publicity could cause serious harm.

Certain hearings, such as preliminary hearings dealing with procedural matters, may sometimes be held in private. The tribunal will explain the arrangements that apply to your case.

Preparing for Your Hearing

Attending a tribunal for the first time can feel daunting. Knowing what to expect helps.

Before the hearing, gather all relevant documents: your contract, payslips, correspondence with your employer, and any evidence that supports your claim. You may need to prepare a written witness statement setting out your version of events. The tribunal will send you directions explaining what you need to do and by when.

On the day, it is advisable to dress smartly yet comfortably. Arrive early to allow time to find the right room. You can bring a friend or family member for support, though they may not be able to speak on your behalf unless the tribunal permits it.

You do not have to use a solicitor or barrister. Many people represent themselves. Free advice and varying levels of support are available from Citizens Advice, Acas, and some trade unions. If you are a union member, check whether your union offers legal representation for employment disputes.

If you win your case, remedies may include compensation or, in dismissal cases, reinstatement to your job. The tribunal can also make declarations about your rights.

There are currently no fees for bringing a claim, though this may change. For current information on time limits and how to submit a claim, visit GOV.UK or contact Acas directly.

The Next Step

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