11 January, 2021
Hiring an employment solicitor is a great way to ensure your rights are protected as an employee. Whether you work for a smaller business or larger cooperation, it’s best to make sure you know who to approach in all circumstances. While lawyers do a great job in helping you sort out any minor or major issues with your employer, they also provide a fantastic support network when required. Although they can be a little pricey to hire by the hour, having access to a solicitor can sometimes make or break your role within any company. Continue reading for four ways a solicitor can help protect you at work.
Workplace harassment
Within each country, there are certain equality laws that protect employees at work. For example, the Equality Act 2010 ensures that all workers within the UK are treated equally – especially those employees who have protected characteristics. With that being said, although there are equality laws, this sadly doesn’t stop workplace harassment and discrimination between employees.
Any employee who feels like they are being bullied at work and are forced to work in an uncomfortable environment caused by other employees is worthy of consideration for raising a complaint. Whilst it’s useful to contact a line manager in the event of harassment or discrimination, sometimes this isn’t always possible as the responsible person may be the perpetrator. If this is the case, it’s possible to contact an employment law firm who can handle the situation both professionally and confidentially.
Disciplinary and grievance events
Disciplinary and grievance events can happen from either end of the employment relationship (employee or employer). These events essentially surround matters which affect either party in turn and deserves procedural support. If an employee believes that they are being disciplined unfairly, they can take it upon themselves and act against their employer. The same also applies if the employee has been dismissed unfairly. Where an employment solicitor can help here is by acting on your behalf to understand the situation and help you with your case. At times, unfair discipline and dismissal might not need challenged at a tribunal level, but it is best to be safe and have your side of the situation protected by a lawyer.
Ensure your contract is withheld
It is every employer’s responsibility to ensure that they set out the employee’s terms and conditions for employment. Often, this is bound in a contract between the employer and employee and it should be mutually signed and understood by both parties. Experts recommend that employees should get their contract looked over by an employment solicitor to ensure that the terms set out are well within their rights. This is also great for keeping the employee in check and allows them to stay confident when questioning their employer.
Final thoughts
Employment solicitors are a worthy investment for any employee. They have many responsibilities, but their main aim is to ensure that workers’ rights are being withheld. Continue your research and see what an employment lawyer can offer you.
