Unfair, Constructive, and Wrongful Dismissal

Losing your job unfairly or in breach of your contract is more than just stressful, it can be life-changing. Whether you’ve been dismissed without reason, forced out by poor treatment, or denied your contractual rights, you don’t have to face it alone. We help you challenge dismissal decisions, secure fair settlements, and bring claims when needed. If your dismissal feels wrong, speak to us today.

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Grey image placeholder with image icon centralised

Initial case assessment

We assess whether your claim meets the legal tests, explain the time limits, and estimate any compensation you might be entitled to.

Managing ACAS Early Conciliation and Settlement

Before making a claim, you’ll need to notify ACAS. We handle the process for you, protecting deadlines and exploring settlement options.

Preparing and presenting your case

From drafting your ET1 claim form to representing you in hearings, we make sure your case is clear, well-evidenced, and confidently put forward.

Negotiation and mediation options

We support you through without prejudice negotiations, mediation or judicial mediation, helping resolve things fairly and efficiently where possible.

Responding to applications and case management

If your employer applies to strike out your claim or asks for costs, we act fast to protect your position and handle Tribunal directions as well as case management tasks.

Appealing and enforcing decisions

If the result isn’t right, or if your employer refuses to pay, we pursue Employment Appeal Tribunal challenges and enforce Tribunal awards if payment is withheld.

Questions we’re often asked

What is unfair dismissal?

It’s when you’re dismissed without a fair reason or without following the right process under UK law.

What is constructive dismissal?

If your employer seriously breaches your contract and you resign because of it, this can amount to constructive dismissal.

What is wrongful dismissal?

This happens when you’re dismissed in breach of your contract, often because you weren’t given proper notice or pay in lieu.

What’s the deadline to claim?

You usually have three months less one day from the dismissal or resignation date. Starting ACAS Early Conciliation pauses this.

Do I need two years’ service?

For unfair dismissal, usually yes. But some claims (like whistleblowing or discrimination) don’t require any minimum service.

Will I have to go to a hearing?

Not always. Many cases settle first. If not, we’ll represent you at the Tribunal.

Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
Georgia was incredibly helpful throughout the process of reaching a settlement with a previous employer. Georgia took the time to understand my personal situation and provided clear, considerate, and professional guidance at every stage. Her support made a complex process much easier to navigate, and I felt reassured knowing I was in capable hands.
Employment Client
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
Chris is a great listener, clear communicator and, in my opinion, a genuinely good, kind human being. I have no hesitation in recommending Blacks in Leeds for any legal matters you may have; you'll be in good hands.
Employment Client
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
I have dealt with Chris Allen recently concerning some rather upsetting and extremely delicate matters. Chris and the team have proved to be reassuring, down to earth and absolute consummate professionals.
Employment Client
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Blacks helped us think beyond the sessions by supporting us to consider how the legislative changes translate into day to day behaviours and what this means for our culture in anticipation for our policy to be launched. This has supported follow on training delivery internally surrounding misogyny, misogynoir and trans-misogyny.
Employment Training Client
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We had an excellent experience working with Blacks. From the moment we reached out to request training, they responded quickly and took the time to meet with us early on to understand our needs and the wider organisational context. They were patient and flexible as we worked through our planning.
Employment Training Client
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Ellie was absolutely amazing through the whole process. She made me feel at ease and was very efficient at replying to my emails and queries. I would also like to say a thank you to Jemma who was the first one I engaged with and made me feel comfortable and less anxious.
Employment Client
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
I worked with Tom during a very stressful and time-sensitive settlement, and I’m genuinely so grateful for his support. From the start, he was calm, practical and incredibly thorough, which made a huge difference at a point when everything felt overwhelming.
Employment Client
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
The service was 11 out of 10! Ellie kept me on the straight and narrow. She navigated the legal side and the emotional side incredibly well. She advised me brilliantly and I couldn’t be happier with that
Employment Client
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
Euan Lawrence helped me with a HR issue with a former employee, and I was extremely impressed by his professionalism and the clarity of his advice in translating complex legal ease for the less legally minded individuals such as myself – I would fully recommend.
Employment Client
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
Outstanding service from start to finish. The team’s work rate, speed of response, and legal knowledge were second to none. They consistently went above and beyond to get things done efficiently and with care. Special thanks to Richard P and Pete K for their exceptional support – true professionals!
Blacks Client

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