Employment Tribunal fees – are they here to stay?
Since the introduction of fees in July 2013, the number of
claims brought in the Employment Tribunals has fallen dramatically.
From April to June 2014 the number of single Tribunal claims fell
by 70% compared to the same quarter in 2013. This has been good
news for employers, since it must mean many weak and unmeritorious
claims have been prevented. But, could it also mean that the fees
regime is denying access to justice for those workers who have been
unfairly treated by their employers? The trade union UNISON has
challenged the lawfulness of fees, and we understand that the
outcome of this challenge in the High Court is expected before the
end of the year. If fees are eventually abolished, employers can
expect a substantial increase in Tribunal claims.
