Identify the issue
Discrimination can arise in recruitment, pay, promotion, working arrangements or dismissal. The reason for the treatment matters, as do the dates, the people involved and what happened to others in a comparable position.
Employment Law
Discrimination at Work
Being overlooked, treated differently or refused support at work can leave you unsure what to do. We can help you understand whether the treatment may be unlawful and what steps are available to challenge it.
Understanding your next steps
How we can help
Support and adjustments
If disability is involved, tell us what the employer knows, what support has been requested and how the issue affects your work. We can consider reasonable adjustments and the records needed to explain the problem.
Decide how to respond
A grievance, negotiation or tribunal claim may be relevant. We explain the options and the evidence each requires. Employers can also ask for advice on responding to a complaint and reviewing the process followed.
A clear way forward
What happens next
What to have ready
Prepare a dated account, your contract, relevant messages, grievance papers and any explanation given by the employer. Keep originals and identify witnesses without asking them to change their account.
Your next step
Contact us with the most recent event and any dismissal or response date. We can assess the issue and agree the next piece of work before you incur further legal costs.
Planning ahead
Fees and timescales
01 / Fees
What the costs cover
The cost depends on whether you need initial advice, help with a grievance, negotiation or representation. We set out the agreed scope, fee basis, VAT and any other expected charges.
02 / Timescales
Timing and deadlines
Tribunal deadlines depend on the claim and when the events happened. They can be short. An internal grievance does not stop time running. Ask for advice promptly about the deadline and any Acas notification required.
Read our published Price Guide, then contact us to confirm the work you need and the costs involved.
View Price GuideUseful to know
Your questions, answered
Does unfair treatment always amount to discrimination?
No. Unfair treatment and unlawful discrimination are not the same. We look at the legal basis, the reason for the treatment and the available evidence.
Can discrimination happen before I start a job?
Yes. Recruitment decisions can be covered. Keep the advert, application, interview correspondence and any explanation for the decision.
Do I need to leave my job before taking advice?
No. You can seek advice while still employed. Get advice before resigning, as leaving can have significant legal and financial consequences.
Will a grievance protect my tribunal deadline?
No. Internal procedures do not extend the deadline by themselves. Acas early conciliation can affect the calculation, so have the dates checked promptly.
Do I need to contact Acas before a tribunal claim?
For most employment tribunal claims, you must notify Acas first. Acas offers early conciliation to see whether the dispute can be settled. Time limits depend on the claim and relevant dates, and an internal appeal or grievance does not stop the clock. Contact us promptly so the deadline and any exception can be checked.
General information for England and Wales. Contact us for advice about your circumstances.
SJS Solicitors · Balham