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You are not legally required to have one, but professional representation ensures your rights are protected and increases your chances of success.
Wonderful service from start to finish.
Employment Tribunal Representation
Facing an Employment Tribunal claim can be stressful, emotionally draining, and legally complex. Whether you are bringing a claim for unfair dismissal, discrimination, whistleblowing, or wage disputes, having experienced employment tribunal solicitors by your side can make all the difference.
At Warner Goodman LLP, we provide expert representation to employees throughout the entire tribunal process — from preparing your claim and representing you at hearings, to advising on appeals.
What is an Employment Tribunal?
An Employment Tribunal is a legal forum that resolves disputes between employees and employers. Common types of claims include:
- Unfair or wrongful dismissal
- Discrimination or harassment
- Unlawful deduction from wages
- Equal pay disputes
- Whistleblowing claims
Tribunals are adversarial, meaning both sides present their cases through written evidence and oral advocacy, including the cross-examination of witnesses.
Most Employment Tribunal claims must be submitted within three months minus one day of the dismissal, discrimination, or incident that occurred. The time limit may be paused (“stopped”) while you go through ACAS Early Conciliation, but strict deadlines apply.
We can calculate the correct deadline for your case and ensure your claim is lodged in time.
Employment Tribunal Representation
Employment Tribunals can be complex and intimidating, particularly when your employer is legally represented. Engaging an experienced employment tribunal solicitor ensures your case is thoroughly prepared, deadlines are met, and your rights are fully protected. With expert guidance, you can focus on presenting your case confidently while we handle the legal and procedural complexities.
Our solicitors support you at every stage of the tribunal process:
 | Strategic advice – advising on whether to settle or proceed to trial, and providing guidance on compensation and employment rights. |
| Preparing your claim – drafting your ET1 form, collating evidence and witness statements, and creating a detailed schedule of loss. |
| Tribunal process guidance – explaining each step, from submitting the claim and employer responses to preliminary hearings, mediation, the main tribunal hearing, and appeals if necessary. |
| Representation at hearings – acting as your advocate or instructing a barrister when appropriate, cross-examining witnesses, and presenting your evidence persuasively. |
| Ongoing support – providing calm, professional assistance throughout the process to reduce stress and maximise the chance of a successful outcome. |
We also offer transparent, fixed-fee quotations when instructing barristers, leveraging our trusted network to provide cost-effective advocacy tailored to your case.
Our Costs
We offer both fixed-fee and hourly rate options, depending on the complexity of your case. Engaging a solicitor early can save time and money by:
- Avoiding errors in claim forms
- Preventing missed deadlines
- Providing strategic guidance on settlement versus trial
To obtain an estimate of costs based on your circumstances, please contact our Employment Litigation Team on 023 8063 9311 or email enquiries@warnergoodman.co.uk. We will discuss your situation in detail and provide a clear quotation for your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can represent me at a tribunal?
You may be represented by a solicitor, barrister, trade union official, or even a friend. However, professional legal representation is strongly recommended.
What is the 3-month rule?
Most tribunal claims must be submitted within three months minus one day of the dismissal or last discriminatory act. Missing this deadline can prevent you from pursuing your claim.
What is ACAS Early Conciliation?
Before you can submit most Employment Tribunal claims, you must first go through ACAS Early Conciliation. This process provides employees and employers with the opportunity to reach a settlement without requiring a tribunal hearing.
What happens if I lose my case?
A tribunal may order you to pay some costs, although this is rare. You may also have the option to appeal if a legal error occurred.
Can my employer settle before a hearing?
Yes. Early settlement through negotiation or ACAS conciliation can save time and costs. We’ll advise you on whether a settlement offer is in your best interests.
Do I have to pay fees to bring an Employment Tribunal claim?
No. Since July 2017, Employment Tribunal fees have been abolished following a Supreme Court ruling that found the fees “effectively prevented access to justice.” Employees can now bring claims to the Employment Tribunal without paying any fees.
What if I paid Tribunal fees before 2017? - If you brought a claim between 2013 and July 2017 and paid Employment Tribunal fees, you may be eligible for a refund from HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS).
You can apply for a refund:
- Online, if you have not changed your name since making the claim and have a UK bank account
- Or by post/email using the appropriate HMCTS form, depending on your situation (for example, if you were a lead claimant or paid someone else’s fees)
You will need to provide details such as the amount paid, the nature of your claim, and your representative’s information. To apply or find out more, you can contact HMCTS via:
- Email: etrefunds@justice.gov.uk
- Phone: 0300 123 1024
- Post: HM Courts and Tribunals Service – England and Wales, Customer Contact Centre, PO Box 10218, Leicester, LE1 8EG
If you are unsure whether you qualify for a refund or need guidance on bringing a new Employment Tribunal claim, our solicitors can advise you on your eligibility and next steps.
Why Choose Warner Goodman LLP?
Facing an Employment Tribunal claim can be stressful, complex, and emotionally draining. Our specialist employment solicitors in Hampshire are here to provide expert guidance, support, and representation throughout the tribunal process. We offer a proven track record in handling employment tribunal claims, with benefits including:
| Over 170 years of combined experience in employment law for employees |
| High success rate in representing clients in Employment Tribunal claims |
| Clear pricing for transparency and peace of mind |
| Clients rate us ‘excellent’ on ReviewSolicitors.co.uk, based on over 1,000+ reviews |
| Fully regulated and authorised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) |
With Warner Goodman LLP, you can rely on a team that is experienced, approachable, and committed to achieving the best possible outcome for every client navigating an Employment Tribunal.
Speak to Our Employment Law Experts
If you are considering bringing an Employment Tribunal claim, or have already received notice of a claim, it’s essential to get specialist legal advice as soon as possible. Our experienced solicitors can guide you through every stage, protect your rights, and work to secure the best outcome for your case.
We assist clients across Hampshire and beyond, with offices conveniently located in Southampton, Portsmouth, Fareham, Chandler's Ford, and Waterlooville. You can choose to meet in person or arrange a remote appointment.
Call: 023 8063 9311
Email: enquiries@warnergoodman.co.uk
Alternatively, you can complete our online enquiry form to request a confidential callback.
To speak to one of our experts please call us
