We provide a fast, cost-effective and efficient settlement agreement advice service. 

We promise

Our commercial user-friendly and knowledgeable lawyers will guide people through the process of what can be quite a difficult and stressful time. The benefits of our service include:

• A free initial no obligation telephone consultation
• We aim and endeavour to work from the fees paid by the employer
• A same day face to face consultation wherever possible
• Specialist commercially focused advice
• Clear and competitive legal costs

Mechanics of a Settlement Agreement

A Settlement Agreement is a legally binding agreement that leads to or follows a person’s employment being terminated. Ordinarily it will provide for a severance payment by the employer, and the employee agreeing not to pursue any Employment Tribunal claims.

It is also normal for the Settlement Agreement to deal with the notice element in an employee’s contract of employment and may provide for a payment in lieu of this. Settlement Agreements are very common. They offer a mutually convenient arrangement for both parties due to the certainty and tax advantages.

There is usually a period of negotiation and discussion between the employer and employee, or their legal advisers, to ensure that a mutually beneficial compromise is achieved.

Settlement Agreements are recognised by statute as being the only way employment claims can be resolved in a binding way without the need for Employment Tribunal proceedings, other than via a COT3 via ACAS following conciliation. This is because Settlement Agreements are an exception to the rule that an individual cannot contract out of his or her employment rights.

The Settlement Agreement should be explained to the employee by an independent solicitor before the agreement becomes binding. The solicitor must also sign the agreement to confirm that the appropriate advice has been provided. It is normal practice for the employer to offer a contribution towards the employee’s legal fees.

Other items that are commonly included in settlement agreements are an agreed reference, an agreed announcement, payment in lieu of notice (where this is not worked), outplacement support (and see below for our recommended partner) and confidentiality obligations.

Our specialist solicitors have great experience in providing expert advice on Settlement Agreement to both employers and employees.

Here are some answers to other frequently asked questions about settlement agreements. 

Please contact us today for a free no obligation discussion by calling either our London, Aylesbury, Marlow, Hemel Hempstead or High Wycombe offices or by email: employment@curzongreen.co.uk