Employment Law
Employment Solicitor Costs 2026: Tribunal, Settlement, and Dispute Fees
Employment tribunal claims have no filing fee. Your cost is your solicitor. Settlement agreement reviews are usually employer-funded. This guide covers what to expect.
Employment tribunal claims in England and Wales have been free since 2017, when the Supreme Court ruled that charging fees was unlawful. Your only cost is your solicitor (if you use one) and lost time.
Solicitor Cost by Claim Type
| Claim Type | Solicitor Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Settlement agreement review | £250-£500 + VAT | Employer typically pays this contribution; independent legal advice required |
| ACAS early conciliation | Free | Mandatory before filing a tribunal claim; no solicitor needed |
| Unfair dismissal (1-2 day hearing) | £10,000-£25,000 | Includes preparation, documentation, hearing |
| Discrimination claim | £15,000-£50,000+ | More complex; longer hearings; expert evidence |
| Whistleblowing (protected disclosure) | £20,000-£50,000+ | Complex; often involves extensive disclosure |
| Wrongful dismissal (simple) | £2,000-£8,000 | Contractual claim; sometimes in county court |
| Barrister (per hearing day) | £2,500-£7,500 | Separate to solicitor cost; needed for multi-day hearings |
Settlement Agreements: What You Need to Know
A settlement agreement (formerly a compromise agreement) is a legally binding contract where you agree not to bring employment claims in exchange for a payment. For the agreement to be valid, you must have received independent legal advice from a qualified solicitor or other authorised adviser.
Employers typically pay £250-£500 + VAT toward your solicitor's review. This is an industry norm, not a legal requirement, but you should always ask for it.
The solicitor explains the terms, what rights you are waiving, and whether the settlement is fair. The review usually takes 1-2 hours.
If the employer offers less than the solicitor charges, you pay the difference. Always confirm the solicitor's total fee before agreeing to proceed.
Employment Tribunal Compensation Caps 2026
| Award Type | 2026 Cap | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic award (unfair dismissal) | £21,570 | Based on age, length of service, weekly pay |
| Compensatory award (unfair dismissal) | £118,223 or 52 weeks' pay | Whichever is lower; reflects actual financial loss |
| Discrimination award | Uncapped | Includes injury to feelings: £1,100-£58,700 (Vento bands) |
| Whistleblowing award | Uncapped | Includes basic, compensatory, and additional award |
| Week's pay (for basic award) | £643/week | Current cap; reviewed annually in April |
Free Alternatives to a Solicitor
Free early conciliation before tribunal. Free helpline (0300 123 1100) for employment rights guidance.
Free employment rights guidance. Can help you understand if your claim has merit.
If you are a union member, legal representation at tribunal may be provided free through the union.
Free legal advice for those who cannot afford a solicitor. Employment law is a core service area.