A problem or a conflict at work which demands a legal solution can be stressful. But it need not be that way. Whether it's an employer seeking advice on how to part company … Read More ...
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Drunk at the off-site? Female employee claims discrimination
A claim of ‘what’s good for the gander, should also be good for the goose” was recently heard in the Birmingham Employment Tribunal. Burns v Gitpod In Burns v Gitpod, a woman was sacked after getting drunk and allegedly falling asleep in a sauna on a work trip. Her employer dismissed her for performance issues… Continue Reading…
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3 legal pitfalls of volunteers in the workplace
Volunteers can be a valuable addition to the workplace – bringing flexibility, community engagement and cost-effective support. But if the relationship isn’t handled with care, you may open yourself up to unexpected legal liabilities. Here are some key points HR professionals need to keep in mind when engaging volunteers: 1. Volunteer, or employee? One of… Continue Reading…
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Recruiting risks? How to avoid discrimination claims
Fair recruitment is more than best practice – it’s a legal requirement. While many employers are familiar with the principles of equality in the workplace, it’s easy to overlook how far discrimination law stretches, especially when it comes to external job applicants. Job applicants are protected under the Equality Act Under the Equality Act 2010,… Continue Reading…
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Asleep on the job – but unfairly dismissed
It might seem obvious that falling asleep at work is a sackable offence. But a recent tribunal ruling reminds employers to look at the bigger picture before jumping to dismissal. Okoro v Bidvest Noonan (UK) Ltd In Okoro v Bidvest Noonan (UK) Ltd, Mr Okoro worked as a CCTV controller. He nodded off briefly while… Continue Reading…
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Redundancy: Don’t cut corners on alternative employment
A genuine redundancy and fair selection process aren’t enough on their own to carry out a fair redundancy dismissal. Employers also have a legal duty to explore alternative roles for affected employees. The key lesson here is that taking a half-hearted approach risks making the whole process unfair. Hendy Group v Kennedy That’s the clear… Continue Reading…
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EAT adds clarity to “Reasonable Adjustments”
Under the Equality Act 2010, employers must make reasonable adjustments for disabled employees. These changes are meant to remove or reduce any disadvantage the employee faces due to their disability. Adjustments might include things like flexible working, special equipment, or changes to how tasks are done. But there’s a limit. Employers only have to make… Continue Reading…
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The pros and cons of fixed-term contracts
Fixed-term contracts can be useful for temporary roles – such as maternity cover, project-based work or seasonal demand – but they come with risks that business owners and HR should be aware of and manage carefully. Day One legal rights and protections Employees on fixed-term contracts are protected under the Fixed-term Employees (Prevention of Less… Continue Reading…
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How to handle summer heatwaves? Tips for employers
All employers are under a general duty under Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to provide a safe working environment. This includes working at safe temperatures. As UK summers get hotter, employers must take steps to protect staff from the risks of working in extreme heat. Heatwaves can affect productivity, comfort, and health. What… Continue Reading…
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5 ways to avoid compulsory redundancies
Making compulsory redundancies is rarely a simple business decision. Employers never want to lose valuable talent, and layoffs can leave skills gaps at a time the business needs them most to pivot or recover. Redundancy payments add up quickly, and the wider impact on staff morale, engagement and employer brand can be hard to repair.… Continue Reading…
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Independent investigators not liable for whistleblowing dismissal
Outsourcing investigations can provide objectivity Many businesses sensibly opt to use external HR consultants or investigators when handling high-stakes disciplinary or grievance matters to ensure objectivity, professionalism, and compliance – particularly involving senior staff. Investigators welcome decision from the EAT As this can be a volatile area, the recent Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) decision that… Continue Reading…
Professional | Practical | Personal – Employment Law Advice
The Hunter Law way
Helping employers
Hunter Law takes a contemporary and practical approach to delivering the right results for corporate clients. All clients are different. There's no 'off the shelf' formulaic … Read More ...
Helping Employees
Parting company with an employer and a job is often a simple case of wanting to move on, and take the next step in your career. But sometimes it is more challenging.... If you … Read More ...
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About Hunter Law
The Team Jenna Hunter - Director Jenna Hunter, founder of Hunter Law began her legal career with law firm Kingsford Stacey Blackwell dealing with civil litigation. After … Read More ...
Fees and costs
Hunter Law's fee structure is based on being competitive, affordable and flexible. Where possible, the firm is happy to quote a fixed fee, and also provide an annual retainer … Read More ...
What Clients Say
Corporate Clients Jenna has acted for Lipscomb Cars for a number of years and I have always found her approach to be very supportive and pragmatic. Her advice and understanding … Read More ...