Losing your job can be incredibly distressing, especially when you believe it was done unfairly. Whether you’ve been dismissed without a valid reason, not given proper notice, or you believe your employer failed to follow the correct procedure, you may be a victim of unfair dismissal.
Understanding your rights and taking the right steps can make all the difference. In this article, our unfair dismissal lawyers will help you understand where you stand.
Step 1: Know Your Rights
In the UK, employees with at least two years of continuous service have the right to not be unfairly dismissed. Common examples of unfair dismissal include being let go for:
- Whistleblowing
- Raising health and safety concerns
- Pregnancy
- Race
- Gender
- Protected characteristics
If you suspect your dismissal falls into any of these categories, you should seek immediate legal advice.
Step 2: Stay Calm and Collect Evidence
As emotional and frustrating this can be, it’s important to stay as calm as possible. Collect as much evidence and documentation as you can. Keep emails, messages, contracts and any correspondence that relates to your dismissal. This information can be vital in helping unfair dismissal lawyers assess your case and provide evidence.
Step 3: Follow the Correct Procedures
Before taking your case to an employment tribunal, you’ll usually need to engage in conciliation with ACAS first (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service). In most cases of employment disputes this is a required step, as it might lead to resolution without going to court.
If conciliation fails, you have a limited amount of time to make a claim (usually three months minus a day from the date of dismissal).
Step 4: Speak to Unfair Dismissal Lawyers
Handling an unfair dismissal claim can be complex, especially when you are dealing with the emotional and financial stress of losing a job.
Unfair dismissal lawyers can help you navigate this process. They will represent your interests and help improve your chances of receiving compensation or reinstatement.
If you think you have been unfairly dismissed, don’t wait any time. The earlier you seek legal support, the stronger your case will be.
At Fitz Solicitors, our team specialises in employment law. We can guide you from start to finish, helping you reach a resolution. Contact us today for a confidential consultation, so we can help you get the justice you deserve and any monies/compensation you are owed.