Employment tribunal claims

We understand that cost is a key consideration when bringing or defending an Employment Tribunal claim. This page provides an overview of our typical fees and what is included in our service, in line with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) transparency requirements.

90% of the employment tribunal work that we advise on is for employers rather than employees. We do act for individuals, but usually only in more complex cases.  

As every matter is different, we will always provide a tailored estimate once we understand your specific circumstances.

What this information covers

This pricing information relates to:

• Claims in the Employment Tribunal (for example for unfair dismissal, unlawful discrimination etc.)
• Work carried out from initial instruction through to a final hearing

Where claims involve additional elements (for example discrimination, whistleblowing or multiple parties), costs are likely to increase.

Our typical fees

Our fees are generally based on hourly rates, with the total cost depending on the complexity of the case.

The ranges below provide a guide to the legal fees you may incur (excluding VAT and disbursements):

• Simple case: £15,000 - £22,500
• Medium complexity case: £18,000 - £50,000
• High complexity and/or sensitive case: £45,000 - £100,000+

These figures are indicative only and are not a fixed quote.

What our fees include

Our fees typically cover all legal work required to bring or defend a claim through to a final hearing, including:

• Taking initial instructions and reviewing documentation
• Advising on merits and likely compensation or exposure
• Preparing the claim or response
• Reviewing the other party’s position
• Managing ACAS early and general conciliation where applicable
• Preparing or advising on a schedule of loss
• Handling correspondence and negotiations
• Preparing for and attending preliminary hearings (where required)
• Document review, disclosure and preparation of bundles
• Taking and preparing witness statements
• Preparing for and supporting representation at the final hearing

We will work with you throughout to explore opportunities for early resolution and manage cost proportionately.

What is not included in these fees

The fee ranges above do not include:

• Barristers’ (counsels) fees
• Expert fees (if required)
• Travel and accommodation expenses
• Any other disbursements

We will always discuss these with you in advance and obtain your approval before they are incurred.

Assumptions underpinning our fee ranges

The estimates above assume that:

• The matter proceeds to a full Employment Tribunal hearing
• A barrister is instructed to represent you at any final or public preliminary hearings
• There are no additional claims or procedural developments outside the normal scope

If your case resolves earlier (for example through settlement), your total costs are likely to be lower.

Factors affecting complexity and cost

Employment Tribunal claims can vary significantly. Costs will depend on a range of factors, including:

• The number and type of claims (e.g. discrimination or whistleblowing)
• The complexity of the factual background
• The number of witnesses and volume of documents
• The need for interim or procedural applications
• Whether there are multiple claimants or respondents
• Whether the other side has legal representation or they are representing themselves (also known as “litigants in person”)
• Any preliminary issues (e.g. employment status, jurisdiction)
• The conduct of the parties, including approach to settlement
• Other issues such as reputation risk, political factors and/or sensitive issues
• Any requirements linked to legal expenses insurance

We will discuss these factors with you at the outset and throughout the matter.

Timescales

Timescales can vary depending on the complexity of the claim and we will provide a more accurate estimate once we understand your case.

Typically:

• Simple cases may conclude within 6–9 months
• More complex matters can take 12–18 months or longer, particularly where multiple hearings are required

However, there are delays in the Employment Tribunal system which is struggling to cope with the volume of hearings.  As a result, cases are frequently taking many years to be listed for a full hearing with dates currently being scheduled for 2030 in certain instances.

Our approach to pricing

We aim to provide:

• Clear, transparent estimates at the outset
• Regular updates as your matter progresses
• A proportionate and commercially focused approach to managing cost

For clients with multiple claims or ongoing requirements, we can also discuss:

• Alternative fee arrangements
• Portfolio or volume-based pricing

Next steps

If you would like to discuss your situation, we would be happy to provide:

• An initial view on your case
• A tailored estimate of likely costs
• Advice on funding options, including insurance

Please contact a member of our employment team or visit our Employment litigation & tribunals page for more information.