July 2013 - Employment Update

There are a number of changes being introduced towards the end of this month which you need to be aware of.

 

Employment Tribunal Fees

 

Despite the applications for Judicial Review the fees will go ahead on 29th July 2013. These are as follows:

 

1. Level 1 fees for simpler claims will be £160 (issue) and £230 (hearing).  
2. Level 2 fees for more complex claims including unfair dismissal, discrimination and equal pay will be £250 (issue) and £950 (hearing).

New Employment Tribunal Procedures

 

New employment tribunal rules of procedure will be introduced, following Mr Justice Underhill’s review of the current procedural rules. The new rules are intended to simplify and streamline the tribunal process and cut costs. The new rules will come into force on 29 July 2013.

 

Settlement Agreements

 

The Government's proposals for facilitating the use of settlement agreements are expected to come into force on 29th July 2013. Employers will be able to offer a settlement agreement at any time, irrespective of whether there is an existing dispute, with neither party being able to refer to the fact that an agreement has been offered in subsequent unfair dismissal proceedings should an agreement not be reached, unless there has been "improper behaviour."  ACAS has produced a guidance note to help employers understand the new confidentiality rules that will come into play.

 

Compensatory Award Cap

 

A cap on the compensatory award of one year's pay will be introduced on 29th July 2013.  The current statutory maximum will apply, if one years pay is lower than the statutory maximum.

 

If you need assistance on any of the above then please contact us on gda@garydarmstrong.com