Fees & Funding Options
At Simpsons Solicitors, we understand that the cost of pursuing or defending an
employment claim can be a concern. We offer several funding options to give you flexibility
and peace of mind:
Hourly Rates
We can assist you on an hourly rate basis, with our fees ranging from £115 to £350 plus VAT
per hour, depending on the complexity of your case and the seniority of the team member
involved.
Fixed Fee Options
Where appropriate, we may be able to offer a fixed fee tailored to your circumstances and
budget. This option can provide certainty and transparency from the outset.
Legal Expenses Insurance
Some home or motor insurance policies and bank membership include legal expenses cover.
We’re happy to liaise directly with your insurer to determine whether your case is covered
under your existing policy.
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Typical Costs for Employment Tribunal Claims
To give you a general idea of potential costs for bringing or defending claims for unfair
dismissal, wrongful dismissal, or discrimination, our fee estimates are as follows (exclusive
of VAT):
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Straightforward matters: £2,500 – £7,500
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Moderately complex cases: £7,500 – £16,000
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Highly complex matters: £16,000 – £35,000
These ranges apply whether you're an employee bringing a claim or an employer defending
one.
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Key Stages in an Employment Claim
The fee estimates provided above usually cover all work involved in the following stages of a
case:
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Taking your instructions and assessing the strength of your claim or defence
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Engaging in ACAS early conciliation to explore a settlement
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Drafting your claim or response and reviewing the other side’s submissions
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Negotiating a settlement (where possible)
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Preparing and reviewing schedules of loss
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Attending any preliminary hearings
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Exchanging and reviewing documents
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Preparing witness statements and reviewing those of others
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Compiling the hearing bundle
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Preparing for the final hearing, including instructing a barrister if necessary
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Please note that not every case involves all of these steps, and some clients may prefer to
handle specific parts themselves. We can work flexibly with you and adjust costs accordingly
where this is appropriate.
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Factors That May Affect Complexity and Cost
Some cases naturally require more time and attention than others. A matter may be
considered more complex (and therefore cost more) if, for example:
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There are preliminary legal issues (e.g. disputes over disability status)
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Applications need to be made (e.g. for amendments or additional information)
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There are multiple witnesses or a large volume of documents
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The claim involves automatic unfair dismissal (e.g. whistleblowing)
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Discrimination allegations are linked to the dismissal
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You are opposing a claim brought by a litigant in person
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A lengthy hearing is required
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Disbursements (Third-Party Costs)
In addition to our fees, you may need to pay disbursements. The most common of these in
employment claims are barrister’s fees for representation at a tribunal hearing. These
typically range between £xxx and £xxx per day, depending on the experience of the
advocate and the nature of the hearing.
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Will I Have to Pay the Other Side’s Costs?
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Employment tribunals generally do not require the losing party to pay the winning party’s
legal costs. However, exceptions do exist. If any cost risk arises during the proceedings, we
will provide clear advice.
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How Long Will My Case Take?
The timescale depends on how and when the matter is resolved. If a settlement is achieved
early (e.g. during ACAS conciliation), it may conclude within 3 to 4 weeks. However, if the
case proceeds to a final tribunal hearing, the full process can take between 18 to 52 weeks
and sometimes even longer for complex cases. We will keep you informed and provide
clearer time estimates as your case progresses.
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Who Will Handle My Case?
Your matter will be managed by an experienced and knowledgeable member of the
Simpsons Solicitors team. We will ensure you receive expert guidance and dedicated
support throughout your case.