We regularly prepare, and advise employees on, Settlement Agreements.

Settlement Agreements

What is a Settlement agreement
 
A settlement agreement is a legally binding agreement between an employee and employer setting out the terms on which employment is terminated or a dispute about it is to be resolved.
 
Examples of when a Settlement Agreement is used include:
 
 
Redundancy
Termination by mutual agreement
Dismissal
To settle an existing Employment Tribunal claim when such an agreement can be used.
 

Settlement Agreements sort out claims quickly without having to use the Employment Tribunal.

• Can include an agreed reference.
• Pay in lieu of notice (PILON) will be taxed.
• Compensation, for loss of office, is free of tax or national insurance up to £30,000 limit.

To be effective the Settlement Agreement must confirm that the employee has received independent legal advice from an appropriately qualified person (usually a solicitor or qualified trade union adviser) (s.203 Employment Rights Act 1996).
 
If you are an employee the single most important thing to understand about a Settlement Agreement is that in signing the agreement and accepting the settlement terms you specifically exclude your right to make a claim against your employer in the Court of Employment Tribunal.
 
In most cases the employer will pay or contribute towards the legal expenses incurred in receiving the legal advice on the agreement.
 
Once an Settlement Agreement is made the only claims that can be made will be to enforce its terms. Usually claims for personal injuries and accrued pension rights are exempted.

 
If you are an employee and decide not to enter into, a Settlement Agreement it is vital to remember there is a time limit for bringing most employment tribunal claims (normally three months).
 
 
To make an appointment regarding a Settlement Agreement please contact admin@robertlunnlowth.co.uk