A settlement is not simply a payment and a document. It is a controlled process involving risk, timing, communication, negotiation and dignity. We help organisations assess the options, develop a realistic strategy and work towards a clear conclusion.
This service is useful when
- an employment relationship has broken down;
- a senior or sensitive exit requires careful handling;
- litigation, reputation or internal disruption needs to be controlled;
- an existing formal process may be resolved by agreement;
- the organisation needs support with negotiation, ACAS conciliation or implementation;
- leadership needs a clear assessment of likely cost and risk.
How the work is run
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Assess
We review the facts, contractual position, process history, objectives, risks and realistic alternatives.
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Strategy
The proposed terms, negotiation route, authority, communication plan and fallback position are agreed.
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Negotiate
Discussions may be supported directly, through ACAS or alongside legal advisers, depending on the circumstances.
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Conclude
Once terms are agreed, the organisation's solicitor prepares or approves the legal agreement and the employee receives independent legal advice as required by law.
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Implement
Communications, reference wording, payments, property return and internal transition are managed carefully.
What you can expect
- a clear commercial and employee-relations assessment;
- realistic settlement parameters;
- structured negotiation support;
- coordination with ACAS or legal advisers where required;
- practical implementation and communication planning;
- no guarantee that an agreement will be reached where the other party does not accept the terms.
Engagement and fees
We agree the scope, likely timetable and fees before work begins. Fixed fees are available where the work can be defined clearly.
Related policies
Where this work leads to documented policy, the Policy Store covers the same ground.
Common questions
Do you draft the legal settlement agreement?
The final agreement should be prepared or approved by an appropriately qualified legal adviser. We can lead the HR strategy, negotiation, practical terms and implementation alongside the legal drafting.
Does an employee have to accept?
No. A settlement is voluntary. The organisation should understand its alternative process and risk position before making an offer.
Can you work through ACAS?
Yes. We can support strategy and conciliation through ACAS where that is the appropriate route.
This page describes an approach rather than a fixed product. Scope, and whether this is the right service at all, are established in the first conversation. Nothing here is legal advice.