Manchester Solicitors

What are compromise agreements?

Compromise Agreements are legally binding and made between employers and employees. The Agreement is very similar to a typical contract in the sense that the employer offers a financial sum in exchange of the employee promising not to bring a legal claim against the employer.

Should I be wary of agreeing to a Compromise Agreement?

Manchester solicitors advise employees on whether a compromise agreement are an attractive termination package or whether they do not truly reflect the employee’s worth.

The reason for this is that payment awarded for three months’ wages is not as much as it appears if your notice period is three months and has not been calculated to include tax and does not include due contractual benefits.

What should I do to ensure my Compromise Agreement is valid?

In order to be valid in law the Compromise Agreement must be evidence in writing.

It must relate to a disagreement between an employer and employee.

In order to be legally binding both the employee and employer must each be advised by qualified legal advisers or solicitors.  The advice must relate to the agreement and the advantages of being able to pursue legal claims in a court and the disadvantages of having that right withdrawn with a compromise agreement.

If you are being advised by a legal adviser you should ensure that the legal adviser is supported by insurance in relation to advice given.

There are features that are common to most agreements but Manchester solicitors will tailor sections to individual circumstances.

Why do I need a solicitor?

It is a legal requirement to be advised by a solicitor when entering into a compromise agreement.

A solicitor will also be able to ensure you understand the outcomes of a possible agreement.

What should I be most concerned about when deciding to enter into a compromise agreement?

It is important that employees understand the gravity of the rights that they are giving up. You are giving up the right to make redundancy claims and unfair and wrongful dismissal claims. You are however not barred from making certain claims such as harassment.

Why should I use Manchester lawyers?

Manchester lawyers pay attention to the nuances of your matter by ensuring any proposed payouts reflect your current employment terms.  We will also consider whether outplacement assistance was offered, references received, and length of service. We negotiate on your behalf to ensure you have the highest pay-out possible by pointing out to your employer the confidentiality agreements and restrictive covenants you may be subjected to.

Manchester lawyers are expert negotiators and defend our client’s position by only accepting an offer we feel is appropriate. We will fight for fairer terms in order to ensure the compromise agreement provides you with a fair remuneration package appropriately recompensing you for the rights you are giving up.