Practical employment law support for businesses
Managing people is one of the most important parts of running a successful business. It can also be one of the highest-risk areas if contracts, policies, procedures or workplace decisions are not handled correctly.
Templeton provides clear, practical and commercially focused employment law advice for employers. We help businesses manage workplace issues, reduce legal risk, protect their position and make confident decisions.
Whether you need employment contracts, workplace policies, advice on a disciplinary issue, support with a grievance, representation in an Employment Tribunal or guidance through redundancy and restructuring, we provide tailored advice designed around your organisation.
How we can help
We advise businesses on the key employment law matters that affect day-to-day operations, workforce management and business growth.
Employment Contracts and Staff Handbooks
Clear employment contracts and well-drafted workplace policies help protect your business, set expectations and reduce the risk of disputes.
We can assist with drafting and reviewing:
- employment contracts;
- directors’ and senior employee agreements;
- staff handbooks;
- disciplinary and grievance policies;
- sickness and absence policies;
- equality and diversity policies; and
- other workplace procedures.
Disciplinary Procedures and Dismissals
Employers must follow a fair process when dealing with misconduct, capability or dismissal.
We advise employers on investigations, disciplinary hearings, performance concerns, dismissals and appeals. Our aim is to help you manage the process correctly while reducing the risk of unfair dismissal or other Employment Tribunal claims.
Grievances and Workplace Complaints
Employee grievances and workplace complaints should be dealt with promptly and fairly.
We support employers in handling grievances, internal complaints and workplace conflict in a structured and legally compliant way, including advising on investigations, meetings, outcomes and appeals.
Redundancy and Restructuring
Redundancy and organisational change can create significant legal and employee-relations risks if the correct process is not followed.
We advise employers on redundancy and restructuring, including:
- identifying genuine redundancy situations;
- consultation requirements;
- selection criteria and scoring;
- suitable alternative employment;
- employee communications; and
- redundancy payments and dismissals.
Settlement Agreements and Employee Exits
A settlement agreement can provide a practical way to resolve workplace disputes or agree the terms of an employee’s departure.
We advise employers on protected conversations, settlement negotiations, agreed exits, senior employee departures and the drafting of settlement agreements.
Our focus is on achieving a commercially sensible resolution while protecting your organisation from future claims.
Employment Tribunal Defence
If an employee or former employee brings an Employment Tribunal claim against your business, early advice can help protect your position.
We can assist with:
- assessing the claim and potential liability;
- preparing the ET3 response;
- advising on litigation strategy;
- managing disclosure and evidence;
- preparing witness statements;
- settlement negotiations; and
- representation throughout the Employment Tribunal process.
Discrimination and Equality Issues Why preparation matters
Discrimination, harassment and equality-related complaints can create significant legal and reputational risk for employers.
We advise businesses on issues involving protected characteristics, harassment, victimisation, reasonable adjustments and workplace equality.
We can also assist with responding to internal complaints and defending Employment Tribunal discrimination claims.
Sickness Absence and Performance Management
Managing sickness absence and poor performance can be particularly difficult where health conditions, disability or capability concerns are involved.
We advise employers on:
- short-term and long-term sickness absence;
- medical evidence and occupational health reports;
- capability procedures;
- performance improvement processes;
- reasonable adjustments; and
- the risks associated with dismissal.
Independent Workplace Investigations
A fair and properly documented investigation can be critical where serious workplace allegations arise.
We can assist with or conduct independent workplace investigations involving:
- grievances;
- disciplinary matters;
- bullying and harassment;
- discrimination;
- whistleblowing; and
- serious workplace incidents.
Why employers choose Templeton
Employment law is not just about resolving disputes once they arise. It is about protecting your business at every stage of the employment relationship.
We work with employers to help them put the right documents, systems and procedures in place, manage difficult workplace situations and respond effectively when claims or complaints are made.
Our employment law advice for employers is practical, proportionate and commercially aware. We understand that employers need clear answers, sensible options and support that reflects the realities of running a business.
Speak to an Employment Lawyer
Employment issues can quickly become disruptive, costly and difficult to manage without the right advice.
Templeton can help your business put strong employment documents in place, manage workplace issues and respond effectively to disputes or claims.
Contact us to discuss how we can support your business.
