Employment

There can be no doubt that in recent years there have been dramatic changes in the law governing the relationship between employer and employee and the workplace. Increasingly, the law regulates many aspects of the employment relationship, providing statutory rights and protection to employees and workers. This trend is set to continue with further legislation and legal developments coming into effect each year.
 
For example, employees generally can only be required to work for a maximum number of hours per week, are entitled to a minimum level of pay and period of holiday, are entitled to parental leave, whether mother or father, and can only be asked to work for a certain number of hours without a break.
 
Such changes, coupled with the ever greater levels of compensation being awarded against employers who fail to comply with their legal obligations, for instance the maximum compensatory award for unfair dismissal has increased to £63,000, mean that no matter what the size of business, it is vital that all steps be taken to keep up to date and to minimise the risk of potential and actual claims.
 
Accordingly it is essential that specialised legal advice be obtained. Here at Berwins we have considerable experience acting on behalf of employers of all sizes, and also employees seeking to enforce or clarify their rights. We are recognised for providing prompt, pro-active and commercial advice and assistance to our clients.
In particular we can advise, assist and as appropriate provide representation in relation to the following;
  • Unfair and wrongful dismissal claims
  • Breach of employment contract claims
  • Redundancy and related matters
  • Disciplinary and dismissal procedures and their application
  • Grievance procedures and their application
  • Working hours and holiday entitlement
  • Parental leave and time off for dependants
  • Business and share transfers and sales – the effect upon employees
  • Discrimination relating to sex, race, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, part time or fixed term working
  • Equal pay and minimum wage claims
  • Harassment and Victimisation in the work place
Moreover, the employment contract and related documents remain the fundamental starting point for identifying the terms of the employment relationship and accessing many statutory employment rights and obligations. Consequently, in order that both employer and employee understand their rights and obligations and to reduce the likelihood of subsequent disputes , it is essential that employment contracts, policy documents and staff handbooks are clear, unambiguous and reflect all changes in the law. We can advise and assist in connection with:
  • Drafting new contracts of employment
  • Amendment/Variation of existing contracts
  • Preparation of Directors’ service agreements
  • Creation and implementation of employment related policies and accompanying documentation
  • Drafting of staff handbooks and manuals
 

Click here for Employment Law Faqs

Click here for Berwins' Employment Law Scheme

 
In the first instance please contact:
Justin Marks JustinMarks@berwin.co.uk  01423 722568 , Caroline Acton CarolineActon@Berwin.co.uk  01423 850308 , or through our enquiries page.