How we can help you
We have listed below some of the more typical areas of concern for our clients. However, our experienced team provide a full range of services for employers and can give you advice on many other aspects of employment law so do not hesitate to contact us with your query.
We also have a large section of employment related Frequently Asked Questions (faqs) in our Legal Resources section.
Dismissal
Do you have an underperforming employee? Is absenteeism an issue? Do you have to make staff redundant?
Whatever your reasons, you may be considering dismissal. However, there are many aspects to consider before you can dismiss an employee as unfair dismissal claims are all too common. The procedure you adopt is as important as the grounds for your decision, so you should seek prompt and early legal advice before taking any action - not least, because the procedure differs according to your reasons for having to dismiss. There are also strict statutory procedures to be followed which were introduced from October 2004.
TUPE - transfer of a business
Are you considering buying or selling a business? You need to be aware of the new TUPE Regulations that came into force on 6th April 2006 that govern the rights of employees in these circumstances. The regulations are extremely complex. We have extensive knowledge in this area and would be happy to advise you.
The employment team works closely with our corporate department, who can advise and guide you through any business start-up, purchase or sale.
Employment contracts
Every employee is entitled to a contract of employment within two months of commencing their employment; a failure to provide one can lead to an employer facing tribunal proceedings. We can draft contracts for you at a fixed fee or alternatively review contracts that you already use to check that they comply with current legislation. We advise that employment contracts are reviewed every 12 months.
Employee Incentive Schemes
We advise on, and implement, effective employee incentive arrangements to match business goals with the aim of recruiting, retaining, motivating and rewarding employees.
Restructuring and redundancy
Restructuring often lead to redundancies - sometimes compulsory, sometimes voluntary. We advise on all restructuring employment issues, including implementation of redundancy schemes, negotiating and drafting severance packages, helping you minimise any adverse impact so that you can move your business forward.
Discrimination
Discrimination in the workplace takes many forms - sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, religious beliefs and age discrimination. There is no limit on the amount a Tribunal can award. We have wide experience in these areas, providing proactive avoidance advice and policies and dealing with particular issues when they arise.
Termination Packages
Contact us if you need help in negotiating a package with a departing employee, drafting a severance agreement, or just advice generally in this area.
Chambers UK 2010
Ian Besant of Wright Hassall LLP is
"not afraid to come off the fence and express a view," declare clients, who also praise the senior employment partner's ability to assimilate the background information of a case quickly and provide timely, pragmatic and sound advice.
Legal 500 2009
Wright Hassall LLP
‘provides accurate advice pitched at the right level‘, with
Ian Besant representing his clients ‘superbly at tribunals‘.
Suki Harrar is
‘very knowledgeable and precise‘.
For a no-obligation chat about employment law and how we can support your business, please contact
Ian Besant or
Suki Harrar.