Employment Disputes

Working relationships can break down just like any other and the consequences can be severe for all those affected.

The sources of dispute vary greatly but can arise over support and recognition, status, harassment, breach of contract, capability or discrimination.

Bringing any disputes to a timely and fair conclusion takes sensitivity and a sound knowledge of the legal implications. Our Employment Unit can help employers or employees no matter what the nature of the dispute.

Employees need to be aware of their rights and empowered to assert them.

In these situations employers need people with expertise to guide them through a difficult period.

Just as important is our ability to help prevent minor issues growing into major conflicts. Our team provides HR support and can devise strategies to contain and control a situation.

Even where a dispute has become serious our mediation and negotiation skills can often achieve amicable resolutions. But if tribunal or court action is required we will advise on all aspects of the process including lodging claims, defending them and assisting in tribunal procedures.

We are experienced in dealing with cases of unfair dismissal. We can also advise on contractual claims, transfer of undertakings, negotiating compromise agreements and ACAS settlements as well as collective issues. These include collective agreements, handling strikes and other labour disputes.

The wide array of skills available from our team mean they rank among the most effective problem-solvers available.

Our team are experienced in taking workplace disputes to mediation by an independent mediator.  Mediation offers a flexible and confidential alternative to litigating employment disputes in the employment tribunal or the courts.  The mediator helps both employer and employee work together to find a practical solution to their dispute. It is the parties themselves who arrive at the outcome, as a consequence of the mediation process. We are experienced in supporting our clients through that process and in the finalisation of the terms of the resulting agreement between them.

Whether you are an employer or an employee for more information please contact  Alan Masson or Alun Thomas in our Edinburgh office or Chris McDowall in our Glasgow office.