Unfair dismissal solicitors are often the first call for workers in London who believe their employment has been wrongfully terminated. Whether your dismissal came out of nowhere or followed a period of tension at work, the experience can be jarring, confusing, and emotionally draining. But you are not powerless.
There are clear steps you can take to protect your rights and pursue fair treatment. If you believe you’ve been unfairly dismissed, acting quickly and strategically is essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through seven practical steps that can help you understand your options and take action.
1. Take a Breath and Assess the Situation
Being dismissed can feel like a personal attack. But before you act emotionally, take a moment to collect your thoughts. Ask yourself: Was I given a reason? Was it in writing? Were there prior warnings? Did the dismissal follow a proper disciplinary process?
In the UK, employees with over two years’ service are entitled to protection from unfair dismissal. This includes the right to be informed of the reasons, to be heard, and to be treated fairly according to employment law standards. There are also automatic unfair dismissal reasons, such as being fired for whistleblowing, pregnancy, or asserting a statutory right.
Start by gathering documents and making notes while the details are still fresh.
2. Request a Written Explanation
Employers are legally required to provide a written statement outlining the reasons for dismissal if requested by the employee. This should include the circumstances, any evidence presented, and details of any disciplinary process followed.
Send your request promptly and keep a copy. If your employer refuses, it can be used as evidence that they’re failing to follow proper procedures.
3. Review Your Employment Contract and Company Policies
Your employment contract, staff handbook, and HR policies can offer insights into how your dismissal should have been handled. Look for details around notice periods, disciplinary procedures, redundancy rules, and appeals.
If you were dismissed without following these protocols, it strengthens your claim. Disregard for internal procedures can point to unfair or improper treatment.
4. Submit a Formal Grievance or Appeal
If you feel your dismissal was unjust, consider submitting a formal grievance or appeal through your company’s internal process. This is a way to officially challenge the decision and invite your employer to reconsider.
Even if it doesn’t lead to reinstatement, it shows that you tried to resolve the issue internally—a crucial point if the matter escalates to a tribunal. For more guidance you can review the official procedure outlined by GOV UK.
5. Contact ACAS for Early Conciliation
Before taking your case to an employment tribunal, you must contact the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) to begin early conciliation. This free service aims to resolve disputes without going to court.
ACAS will contact your employer and see if a settlement can be reached. The process is confidential and doesn’t commit you to anything. For many, it’s a useful opportunity to secure compensation or an agreed reference without the stress of a tribunal. You can start the process through the ACAS website.
6. Gather Evidence and Prepare Your Case
If conciliation doesn’t lead to a resolution, you may wish to pursue your case at an employment tribunal. To do this successfully, you’ll need to compile evidence that supports your claim.
Helpful evidence includes:
You generally have three months minus one day from the date of dismissal to begin tribunal proceedings. It’s wise to get legal advice as soon as possible to avoid missing deadlines or preparing an incomplete case.
7. Speak to a Specialist Employment Solicitor
This is where expert advice becomes invaluable. Solicitors can assess your situation, explain your legal rights, and represent you through negotiations or tribunal proceedings.
They can also help quantify your losses, including:
Solicitors experienced in employment law understand how employers operate, and they can often negotiate more effectively than individuals acting alone. For more information about how a solicitor can help you, refer to the workplace problems resource provided by The Law Society.
Don’t Settle for Less Than Fair Treatment
Being dismissed unfairly is not just a financial blow—it can knock your confidence and leave you feeling wronged. But you don’t have to accept it quietly. The law is there to protect you, and support is available.
Take action early, document everything, and don’t be afraid to seek advice. The sooner you engage with the right professionals, the stronger your chances of turning things around.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance specific to your employment situation, please consult a qualified solicitor or employment law specialist.
