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What is Employment Law?

Employment law is there to regulate relationships between employers and employees and covers various factors such as what employers can expect and request from their employees, and what rights employees have whilst they are at work. The main purposes of employment law are:

• To prevent discrimination in the workplace
• To promote health and safety within the workplace
• To establish levels of economic support
• To Prevent disruptions to work arising from conflicts between management and their staff

At times, there can be confusion surrounding what employment law covers, and therefore it often isn’t utilised when it should be. The below list provides the main examples of employment law; however, this is in no way exhaustive and employment law exists to protect both employers and employees in several additional ways also.

• Bullying and harassment
• Age discrimination
• Discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or sexuality
• Disability
• Employment contracts
• Dismissal and employee grievances
• Minimum wage and equal pay
• Redundancy
• Parental leave
• Working hours
• Sick leave

All the above are covered under various pieces of legislation, such as:

• Employment Rights Act 1996
• Working Time Regulations 1998
• Maternity and Parental Leave Regulations 1999
• Equality Act 2010

All employers have a duty to comply with employment law, and all employees have the right to utilise it if needed. It is therefore essential that employers have a sound understanding of employment law, or that they are aware of a reputable third-party Company who can assist them if required.

Employment contracts are one of the most common aspects employment law is utilised for by employees. They form an extremely important part of employment and the working relationship and are covered under the Employment Rights Act 1996. Only those workers with recognised employee status used to have the right to receive a written contract, which had to be provided to them within two months of starting work. However, new rules as of April 2020 mean that individuals with worker status will also be entitled to a written contract, which must be issued to them on their first working day. Written contract requirements have also been amended and these must now include clear guidance and information on:

• Any probationary periods that must be undertaken by the employee
• Family-friendly leave entitlements
• Days and times that the employee will be expected to work

Here at Joseph James Law we are here to support both employers and employees. So, whether you’re an employer in need of support, or an employee with a work-related dispute, get in touch with us today for a free friendly initial chat.

Posted 8th July 2020

I had the mis fortune to need Legal advice over an employment issue right at the start of the Covid 19 outbreak/lock down period. I had previously heard of JJL though an event that they run annually so thought why not give them a go. The service I received was excellent the whole team were attentive and explained all of the legal details in plain English. Within a week or so my issue was resolved successfully which given the current state of the country I was super impressed with. I would have no hesitation in recommending their services to anyone in need of legal advice.

I have been working with Joseph James Law for over a year now and have found each member of the team I have worked with highly knowledgeable and extremely professional. I have worked with Katarzyna for the most part and she has been very supportive, the communication between us has always been clear and timely especially when dealing with some highly sensitive issues.

ML Group

Thank you for your friendly & professional service. You have been instrumental in keeping our mind at peace with employment matters, helping us with comprehensive employment handbook as well as best practices. We value your guidance on case-2-case basis and trust you as you have our interests at heart.

Thank you for your help in this matter as I have no doubt we would not have managed it on our own.

Mrs C Steventon

Thank you so much to JJL for helping me through a really tough time with my employer. Without their time and legal expertise I am not sure what I would have done. They made calculated and rational decisions that assisted me get the best possible outcome.

Mrs H

Andrew and his Employment team made themselves available during times most people would consider after hours and the patience they had along with the time they took to explain the details of the case were truly above and beyond what was expected. Andrew did everything in his power to ensure the pro...

John F

My family and I were in need of professional legal advice regarding our late mother, Andrew Settle of JJL was professional, courteous and extremely understanding , which at the time was extremely helpful.

Trevor Price

As a relatively new commercial client of JJL solicitors we have been delighted by the results that they have achieved in a short space of time. They made the set up and process of transferring our debt recovery clients simple, straightforward and hassle free.

Mrs Brice

Fantastic service, I would highly recommend and would definitely use again if needed. Friendly staff, very fast response to any queries via email or phone and great advice and support was given throughout the process. Help was provided every step of the way. Nothing was too much trouble. I got the ...

Victoria D