The Employment Tribunal Process: Step by Step

The Employment Tribunal Process: Step by Step

An employment tribunal is an independent judicial body that hears claims about employment rights.

Step 1: Early Conciliation with Acas

Before you can submit a claim, you must notify Acas and go through early conciliation. This is a legal requirement. The conciliation period typically lasts up to six weeks. The three-month time limit pauses during this period.

Step 2: Submit Your ET1

The ET1 is the claim form. You submit it online at employmenttribunals.service.gov.uk. There is no fee for submitting a claim.

Step 3: The ET3 Response

Your employer has twenty-eight days from receiving the claim to submit an ET3 response.

Step 4: Case Management

The tribunal may hold a preliminary hearing. Directions will be set covering the preparation of a joint bundle of documents, exchange of witness statements, and the listing of the final hearing.

Step 5: The Final Hearing

Both parties give evidence, witnesses are cross-examined, and legal submissions are made. Under the direct access scheme, you can instruct an employment barrister for the hearing itself, even if you handled the preparatory work yourself.

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This article provides general legal information only. It is not formal legal advice and does not create a solicitor-client or barrister-client relationship. If you need advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a qualified legal professional.