Settlement Agreement Solicitors in Bolton
Settlement agreements are one of the most common reasons people contact us.
If your employer has asked you to sign a settlement agreement, it’s important to understand exactly what you’re agreeing to before making a decision. Signing a settlement agreement usually means giving up the right to pursue certain legal claims against your employer, so obtaining independent legal advice is essential.
We’ll review the agreement with you and explain:
- The compensation being offered
- Notice pay and holiday pay
- Restrictive covenants
- Confidentiality clauses
- Employment references
- Whether any terms of the agreement may be open to negotiation
In many cases, employers contribute towards the cost of obtaining independent legal advice, meaning your legal fees may be covered in full.
Employment Law Advice for Employees in Bolton
Workplace problems don’t always begin with dismissal. Many clients seek advice before formal action is taken, allowing them to understand their options at an early stage.
We regularly advise employees on:
- Redundancy processes
- Disciplinary investigations and hearings
- Grievance procedures
- Employment contracts
- Workplace discrimination
- Constructive dismissal
- Unfair dismissal
Taking advice before responding to your employer can often provide more options than waiting until decisions have already been made.
Employment Law for Bolton Businesses
Whether you’re recruiting your first employee or managing an established workforce, clear documentation and consistent procedures can significantly reduce the risk of employment disputes.
We support businesses across Bolton with:
- Employment contracts
- Staff handbooks
- Workplace policies
- Disciplinary procedures
- Grievance procedures
- Settlement agreements
- Ongoing employment law advice
Bolton is home to a wide range of businesses, from manufacturers and logistics companies to retailers, professional services firms and growing SMEs. Whatever the size of your organisation, we provide practical employment law advice tailored to your business.
Employment Tribunal Advice
While many workplace disputes can be resolved through negotiation or internal procedures, some proceed to an Employment Tribunal.
We assist clients with claims involving:
- Unfair dismissal
- Constructive dismissal
- Discrimination
- Wrongful dismissal
- Breach of contract
- Unlawful deductions from wages
Where appropriate, we’ll also discuss whether a dispute can be resolved through ACAS Early Conciliation or settlement before formal Tribunal proceedings become necessary.
NHS MARS Schemes
If you’ve received a Mutual Agreement for Resignation Scheme (MARS) offer from the NHS, it’s important to understand the legal and financial implications before making your decision.
We’ll explain the terms of the agreement, answer your questions and ensure you understand your options before deciding whether to accept the offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many settlement agreements can be completed within a few days, provided both parties are happy with the terms. If amendments need to be negotiated, the process may take longer, but we’ll work to progress matters as quickly as possible.
Not necessarily. Employers commonly contribute towards the cost of independent legal advice because a settlement agreement will only become legally binding once you’ve received advice from an independent legal adviser. The level of contribution varies, but it is often sufficient to cover the legal costs.
Potentially, yes. Depending on the circumstances, it may be possible to negotiate the compensation offered, an agreed employment reference, your leaving date, notice arrangements or restrictive covenants before signing the agreement.
You should review the allegations carefully, gather any relevant documents and understand your employer’s disciplinary procedure before attending the meeting. Obtaining legal advice beforehand can help you understand your rights and prepare your response.
Many Employment Tribunal claims must be started within three months less one day of the issue you’re complaining about. In most cases, you must also notify ACAS and begin Early Conciliation before presenting a claim, which can affect the time limit. Because Tribunal deadlines are strict, it’s important to seek advice as soon as possible.