tribunals

• what is a tribunal?

  An informal type court body which deals with specialist areas of the law
• what sorts of issues do employment tribunals deal with?

  Unfair dissmisal claims

  Discrimination in the workplace

  Redundancy
• when must claims on employment issues be raised?

  Within three months, less than one day, from the event that is being raised
• why must ACAS be contacted within the three months of the employment issue occuring?

  They can see if there is any resolution possible
• are lawyers required in employment tribunal cases?

  Claimants are able to stand on their own- they obtain advice on the strength of their claim before issueing it typically from a trade union or a specialist lawyer
• Who hears tribunals?

  A judge who specialises in employment law

  Someone who represent's the employer's organisation

  Someone who represents the Employee's organisation
• who sits in a preliminary hearing, if one is needed?

  Just the judge
• what happens in the full hearing in a tribunal?

  Evidence is taken on oath, rules about the procedure and evidence can be accepted- either side can represent themselves or be represented by a laywer
• what happens if the panel is in favour of the employee?

  They may encourage a settlement which would include a favourable reference and some compensation
• What happens if the claim is lost?

  The employee will not have to pay the employer's costs
• What happens if a settlement cannot be reached?

  The tribunal can award compensation
• What happens if either party is dissatisfied with the panel's decision?

  They can appeal for a review on the decision within 42 days
• when can an appeal be made on the decision of the tribunal?

  if the party is challenging the decision on a point of law
• What will happen if an appeal is made of the tribunal decision?

  It will go to the civil court of appeal, and or the supreme court- however in doing so, the claimant will need permission from the employment appeal tribunal