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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Wrongful dismissal: Not the same as unfair dismissal
What is wrongful dismissal? A claim of wrongful dismissal can arise when you (the employer) breach the contract of employment when you dismiss an employee. Importantly, it has nothing to do with whether the dismissal was fair — that falls under statutory unfair dismissal rules. Wrongful dismissal is ultimately about contract compliance. Notice periods: express,… Continue Reading…
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3rd party pressure: Fair reason for dismissal?
The Employment Rights Act 1996 recognises five potentially fair reasons for dismissal: When faced with an ordinary unfair dismissal claim, you must set out which of these 5 reasons you will cite as the reason for dismissal. You must then show that the dismissal for that reason was fair in all the circumstances. What’s the… Continue Reading…
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Refusing annual leave – employer’s rights
Under Working Time Regulations 1998, all workers are entitled to at least 5.6 weeks of paid holiday per year. However, this doesn’t mean that they have complete freedom to take holiday whenever they want. For the survival of the business, employers must be able to prioritise the employment needs and make sure that sufficient cover… Continue Reading…
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How to draft a discretionary bonus scheme
How to draft a discretionary bonus scheme Discretionary bonus schemes can boost motivation and performance, but if the rules aren’t clear, they can quickly lead to disputes, costly claims and employee frustration. The key is balancing flexibility with clarity. Thoughtful drafting, defined rules, and careful documentation can give you flexibility while reducing the risk of… Continue Reading…
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Understanding UK employment status
Your employment status determines the rights and protections you have at work. In the UK, there are three main categories: employees, workers, and the self-employed. Each has different entitlements. There is also a distinct framework for agency workers. Getting status right is essential, as rights cannot be contracted out of or waived. 1. Employees Employees… Continue Reading…
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Workplace investigations, best practice
A well-executed workplace investigation is the bedrock of any fair and defensible disciplinary or grievance outcome. When investigations are rushed, poorly planned, or inadequately documented, the entire process can unravel – exposing employers to legal and reputational risk. HR professionals know that getting this stage right is essential, yet it remains one of the most… Continue Reading…
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New statutory pay rates from April 2026
Family leave pay and SSP The Government has set out its proposed new statutory rates for statutory sick pay and family leave pay to apply from 6th April 2026. Old Rate New Rate Statutory maternity pay £187.18 per week £194.32 per week Statutory paternity pay £187.18 per week £194.32 per week Statutory shared parental… Continue Reading…
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Employment Rights Act 2025: Imminent employment law changes
The Employment Rights Bill has finally cleared the House of Lords and gained Royal Assent on 18th December 2025. It is now the Employment Rights Act 2025 (ERA 2025) – a landmark reform that will reshape UK employment law. While many of the changes will not take effect immediately, employers can now be clear on… Continue Reading…
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‘Day one’ unfair dismissal dropped and compensation cap removed
The Government has confirmed that it will ditch its original plan to make unfair dismissal a day-one right and will instead reduce the qualifying period from two years to six months. This significant policy shift broke the parliamentary deadlock to keep the Employment Rights Bill (which has today become the Employment Rights Act 2025) on… Continue Reading…
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How to retain young, restless employees
Employers are being warned to watch out for a new species hopping through the workplace: the ‘office frog’. The term has been coined to describe younger employees – particularly those of Gen Z – who move frequently from one job to another, leaping from role to role as a frog might hop from lily pad to lily… 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 ...
