I have recently received lovely feedback from a client who I provided advice to on their Settlement Agreement. Read on to learn more.
What Is A Settlement Agreement?
A Settlement Agreement is a legally binding agreement. They are usually given to resolve a workplace dispute, or to end an employment relationship. They are often lengthy and have many clauses within them. Such clauses could relate to the date your employment terminates, waiver of your Employment Law claims or the return of property etc. There will also be a number of specific conditions to ensure the Settlement Agreement is legally binding. One such legal requirement is that the employee must receive independent legal advice before signing the Settlement Agreement. Once the Settlement Agreement is binding, the employee will be unable to pursue any claim in the Employment Tribunal.
My Client
My client had been employed by the business for a number of years and experienced no issues with his employment. It was not until COVID-19, however, that his relations at work began to deteriorate. In the summer his role was unilaterally removed from him and given to someone external to the business. My client was left to carry on with a junior role which was both demotivating and embarrassing. Whilst my client knew his employers behaviour was wrong, he felt unable to speak up and object.
It also caused division in his team; as his team were unclear who to report to and ultimately, this caused disruption and annoyance to the newly appointed employee. Therefore, within months of them starting, he was approached with a view to terminate his employment under the terms of a Settlement Agreement.
When I met with my client to discuss the Settlement Agreement, he gave me the fortunate news that he had been applying for jobs and he had just been offered a position with a new company. The benefits and pay were more than he was on now and he was eager to move on. Therefore, whilst I identified claims available to him in the Employment Tribunal, the Termination Payments he was being offered were substantial. Additionally, given he had also obtained new employment so quickly, such claims would reduce in compensation as a result. We therefore needed to act fast and obtain a legally binding Settlement Agreement.
I was instructed to make a couple of amendments to the Settlement Agreement but in total, it took us a matter of days to get the Settlement Agreement legally binding.
My Client’s Review
What were the circumstances that caused you to look for a legal adviser?
After 11 years with an international firm I was informed that I was to have a demotion without any notice, explanation or consultation.
How did Lucy Stones help you?
Lucy was excellent, explained clearly my options and legal rights and the best course going forward. I also felt that Lucy was on my side when you can feel very isolated in these times and circumstances.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
We got an outcome that was beneficial all around in a matter of days.
What could they have done better?
Not applicable
How Can I Help You?
If you have received a Settlement Agreement, or you have any Employment Law issue please do not hesitate to give us a call on 01522 440512 or email us at ContactUs@lincslaw.com. Alternatively, you can review more on Settlement Agreements here; https://lincslaw.co.uk/services/settlement-agreement/.
Lucy Stones
Employment Law Solicitor
Lincs Law Solicitors
Tags: demotion employment law Lincs Law lucy stones settlement agreement unfair dismissal unfair treatment