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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5 things HR needs to know about probationary periods
Probationary periods are a trial period at the start of the employment relationship designed to provide the employer with better insight into whether or not a successful applicant is suitable, both for the job role and the business. Here are 5 things HR should know about probationary periods:
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A brief guide to National Minimum Wage and night work
Night work is common – especially in sectors like healthcare, security, hospitality, and logistics – but it’s also an area where employers can unintentionally fall foul of National Minimum Wage (NMW) rules. Here’s a quick guide for HR professionals and managers to help you stay compliant. Know the rules This was confirmed by the Supreme… Continue Reading…
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It’s time to learn the legal definition of harassment
It is crucially important that employers are aware of the ‘reach’ of rules on harassment in the UK. A recent Employment Appeal Tribunal decision serves as a reminder that conduct can constitute harassment under Equality Act 2010 even where the perpetrators did not intend to harass. The legal test for harassment requires the conduct to… Continue Reading…
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Race discrimination case confirmed against Council
Under the Equality Act 2010, direct discrimination happens when someone is treated less favourably because of a protected characteristic, such as race. To succeed in a direct discrimination claim, an employee must show: If these two criteria are met, the burden of proof shifts to the employer to show that the treatment was not discriminatory.… Continue Reading…
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Care worker wins race discrimination case after colleagues spoke Polish in meeting
Kellington–Crawford v Newlands Care Angus Ltd In Kellington–Crawford v Newlands Care Angus Ltd, an English care worker succeeded in claims of race discrimination and harassment after a disciplinary meeting where her three Polish managers spoke to each other in Polish. The employee said that, because she didn’t speak Polish, she felt intimidated and isolated. Ironically,… Continue Reading…
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When is it OK to use covert surveillance at work?
Covert surveillance in an employment context is an uncomfortable concept. The employment relationship is underpinned, on both sides, by a duty of trust and confidence. So, spying on your employees should be the last resort, and used sparingly. 5 risks of covert surveillance There are several legal risks if you covertly monitor an employee without… Continue Reading…
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Constructive criticism is not harassment
It’s the nature of the employment relationship that employers must occasionally have difficult conversations with their employees – about career progression, conduct or business strategy. If an employee is struggling, their employer may need to critique their performance. Clearly these are important conversations to have, and they must be able to take place. Dishing out… Continue Reading…
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Young Workers – 7 legal requirements you need to know
Young workers (those under 18) are subject to stricter working time limits than adult employees, with additional safeguards around breaks and rest periods. So, whether you’re taking on a weekend retail assistant or onboarding an apprentice fresh out of school, it’s important for you to understand the specific legal protections for the young workers you… Continue Reading…
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Revised rollout of the Employment Rights Bill
The Government has published its employment law roadmap, setting out how and when the wide-ranging reforms in the Employment Rights Bill will be introduced. The new roadmap signals a slower, more phased rollout than initially proposed with the major reforms — like zero-hour contracts and day-one unfair dismissal rights – not expected until 2027. Some… Continue Reading…
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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…
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 ...
