Settlement agreements in the UK are widely used in the context of employment, typically when a working relationship is ending.
But what information about them do employers genuinely need to know? In this blog post, explore what a settlement agreement is, how severance negotiation is essential, and learn top tips for negotiating a favourable settlement agreement.
What exactly is a settlement agreement?
In the event of a termination of employment, where the terms are mutually agreed, a written settlement agreement is made between the employee and the employer.
The agreement involves providing the financial benefit in exchange for leaving the company and agreeing not to pursue a legal case in court or an employment tribunal in the future, essentially a clean break. This is done to avoid longer termination processes such as redundancy, or if the employee’s performance is in question, then it avoids the long process of a performance review before the employer can terminate the employee’s contract without legal ramifications.
Settlement agreements allow employees to receive a fair severance negotiation without having to appear before an employment tribunal while also making it easier for employers to let go of individuals who no longer provide a positive value to their employer. This is often quicker, cheaper, and less disruptive for both sides.
The following conditions must be met for a settlement agreement to be upheld:
- The agreement must be in writing.
- It must be connected to a particular claim or set of claims the employee might make against the company.
- Before signing, the employee must have sought independent legal counsel to ensure they completely understand the contract and its effects on the employee’s ability to raise further proceedings against their employer.
- The agreement must identify this legal counsel, and legal insurance must cover their advice.
- The agreement must state that it complies with relevant statutory provisions, such as the Employment Rights Act.
How to Negotiate a Severance Package in Case of Employment Termination
Once an employer gives notice, an employee’s tenure is likely finished. With a few exceptions, they won’t be allowed to keep their employment if their contract is terminated. Taking the time and being prepared to negotiate their severance payout is crucial to completing the termination process smoothly.
From the employer’s perspective, you must ascertain how long the employee has been with your company, their position within your organisation, and their contribution to the company. Generally, severance pay is only given to salaried employees, and the longest-serving employee gets the biggest payout. Employers will need to appoint a figure with the authority to negotiate the severance terms with the departing employee.
From the employer’s perspective, when determining the most terms for the settlement, the employee’s years of service and their individual contributions will most likely be considered. If the employee can quantify these contributions, they will likely want this considered when negotiating their settlement agreement.
Essential tips you need to know when negotiating a settlement agreement.
Recognize your strengths and what you need from others.
Recognise the possibilities for a settlement agreement with the employee during employment termination. Consider severance compensation, holiday pay, pensions, confidentiality clauses, references, non-compete clauses, and other employee benefits. This will typically depend on their contract provisions, applicable statutory regulations, and what you must do to safeguard your company’s interests.
Prepare yourself to bargain.
Be prepared to negotiate with the employee after making your initial offer. Remembering that the goal is to reach a mutually agreeable agreement is crucial. Consider the wants and needs you have for yourself whilst also considering the wants and needs of the employee to reach a mutual agreement.
Make A First Offer
You should give the employee an initial offer once you know what to offer. The parameters of the agreement should be spelt out in writing in this document. Ensuring the offer is reasonable and clear about what is being provided is crucial.
Verify the written agreement.
The parties must all give their consent in writing and sign it. As a result, the agreement’s provisions will be understood by both parties.
From an employer’s perspective, you should ensure that the employee in question seeks independent legal counsel and that they are always aware of their responsibilities, and the document must have all the negotiation pointers mentioned to not void the agreement in the future. Employees can seek this independent counsel from an experienced employment law solicitor, which can be easily found through Lawyersorted.
Keep the overall picture in mind.
Consider your position as an employer when negotiating; for example, is the company currently in a difficult fiscal situation, and does the employee have knowledge of the company’s fiscal situation or whether they’re going through a transitional period? Employees with intimate knowledge of the company’s operations will have more bargaining power during these settlement negotiations.
In conclusion
Hiring a trustworthy lawyer can assist you with the agreement and concession process.
A settlement agreement is a beneficial agreement for both parties, avoiding lengthy litigation and financial risk.
Experienced lawyers from Lawyersorted can help you negotiate a severance negotiation, for employment termination. Find the solicitor that has extensive experience in employment law claims and settlement agreements.
They can advise on choices and guide the process, ensuring the terms are acceptable to the client and providing tailored services. Hire lawyers from Lawyersorted who take a pragmatic approach to sensitive employment issues and can guide clients through the entire process.
Written By –
Omar Shams
CEO & Founder at Lawyersorted.com