Employees leave a job for many different reasons, sometimes due to disputes, sometimes redundancy, sometimes amicably. A significant number of employees are now offered a settlement agreement (formerly known as a compromise agreement) by their employer, not just where there is a dispute. For a settlement agreement to be legally valid, the employee must have received independent legal advice.
make an enquirySettlement agreements are legally binding contracts, the purpose of which are to ensure that the employee waives their rights to pursue their legal claims (except any personal injury claims neither party are aware of) against their employer in return for a sum of compensation. They deal with all aspects of the termination of an employment relationship agreement.
The employer may also use the agreement to protect themselves, e.g. by adding confidentiality clauses and restrictions on competition.
In order to be legally binding an employee must obtain independent legal advice on the agreement and we can assist in that regard. Your employer will usually offer to make a contribution towards the cost of that advice.
Things to look out for:
In terms of fees, assuming you are happy with the offer that has been made, and do not therefore require any advice over and above advice on the meaning and implications of the settlement agreement that has been provided to you, then we can normally agree to act for you for the fixed lawyer fee contribution provided by the employer.
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Nina Francis
SolicitorI instructed Nina on a settlement agreement matter with a former employer. Nina was very responsive, extremely professional, friendly and a quick thinker. From the get go she provided clear and precious advice. Nina achieved brilliant results in a very short time and guided me to navigate such a stressful situation with resolve, expertise and confidence. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Nina to anyone in regards to employment. Thank you Nina!
I don’t have enough words to thank you for your knowledge and your assistance in this process. Before you, I was drowning. The outcome has been better than I ever hoped for.
This is the second time I have had the pleasure of working with Nina Francis. Both times she has been quick to grasp the situation, put me at ease and conclude a successful outcome. Straightforward to deal with, quick and accessible. She provides a very balanced perspective and gives great and easy to follow advice. In a stressful situation I cannot think of a better professional to have by your side.
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