In difficult economic times, redundancies may be your only option. However, it is vitally important that you communicate well with employees and follow a fair redundancy process to avoid expensive unfair dismissal claims.
Advice on dealing with unfair dismissal claims and claims for a failure to collectively consult
Training
We run regular HR courses at our offices and external venues over the year designed for HR professionals and those responsible for HR within their organisation. We also run webinars on these topics. Keep an eye on the Events section of our website to see upcoming courses.
In-House Counsel
Our team of experienced lawyers is well-equipped to support you in various ways. Whether you require advice on a specific issue, additional resources due to capacity constraints, or a second opinion, we are here to help. Explore our legal counsel page for more information and details on our schedule of seminars, specifically designed for in-house counsel.
How we work with you
Whilst based in the South of England, Paris Smith acts for businesses and families throughout the UK. Technology has enabled us to provide a high level of service to our clients whether they are local to our offices or not. Our advice can be given in many ways:
Over the telephone
Via video conferencing
In face to face meetings
We will talk through how you would like to be contacted and the best ways for us to meet in our early conversations with you.
“Sources say “They give excellent practical employment advice”; “The team at Paris Smith are exceptional. They are a super friendly, approachable team. They quickly cut through the matter at hand with insight and expertise. Their guidance is clear and well thought through. They can absolutely be relied upon to find a way through what might otherwise seem like a problematic situation.””
Legal 500 2025 Edition – Client Testimonials
“Clive has provided advice to our company for many years now. His uncomplicated and pragmatic advice consistently provides us with clear direction on how to handle sensitive and potentially troublesome matters. His availability to take a call and talk through matters or turn-around documentation in short order is also invaluable.
”
John Donnelly – Cor Financial Group
“I have been a client of Paris Smith’s Employment law department for several years, including for the resolution of a challenging worker-related dispute. The team has been superb throughout, far exceeding my expectations in terms of their professionalism, proactiveness, pragmatism and generous spirit, often going above and beyond in their service delivery to bring the matter to a far better than hoped for conclusion. At a personal level, everyone I dealt with was delightful too. Paris Smith will certainly remain by ‘go to’ law firm for employment and other legal advice!”
Dr Katja LH Samuel, Chief Executive Officer
Global Security and Disaster Management
“Sources say “The employment law team is very current, aware and up-to-date with legislation and knowledgeable on a wide range of matters;” “The service has always been very professional and informative and I have always had confidence in the people I have dealt with;” “The Paris Smith Employment Team has great experience and genuine flair in acting for a range of clients over the full spectrum of employment law;” “The advice Paris Smith gives is sound, and it always takes into consideration the commercial aspects as well as the legal framework;” and “The experience of the team really shines through.””
Employment Solicitor Sarah Hayes takes us through a guide to settlement agreements. Why are they beneficial? What should you need to know and what are the practical steps that need to be taken for them to be legally binding?
Show notes
00:28 What is a settlement agreement? Sarah defines what it means
00:48 What is the purpose of a settlement agreement and what will include
01:15 There are various benefits of having a settlement agreement – Sarah talks through what these are
02:00 How long does it take to agree the terms of a settlement agreement?
02:40 It is important to see a solicitor if you are issued with a settlement agreement – Sarah talks about how this works in practice
04:06 What happens if you want to negotiate the terms of your agreement and do you have to sign the agreement? Sarah explains in detail and what the implications are for you.
04:45 How do you know if you’re getting a fair deal?
05:30 What is the typical time frame for payments being made?