Lawyers for Employment Settlement Agreements

Our Settlement Agreement Solicitors play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate the end of an employment relationship, a process that can be both challenging and complex. Whether you are dealing with redundancy, workplace disputes, or negotiating an exit package, having expert legal guidance is essential to protect your rights and secure a fair outcome.

A Settlement Agreement, also known as a Compromise Agreement, is a legally binding contract where an employee agrees to give up certain legal claims in return for compensation or other benefits. It’s important to fully understand what you’re agreeing to, as it can affect your future employment rights. Our experienced Settlement Agreement Solicitors in Stockport & Cheshire are here to offer clear and straightforward advice, ensuring you can make informed decisions with confidence.

At Mounteney, our team specialises in settlement agreements and the intricacies of employment law. Whether you require assistance in drafting an agreement, negotiating the terms, or simply understanding the legal consequences of an offer, our Settlement Agreement Solicitors are here to guide you every step of the way. We are committed to safeguarding your interests and ensuring that any agreement reflects your best possible outcome.

With four offices in Bramhall, Cheadle, Hazel Grove and Heald Green, we offer tailored legal services to employees and employers throughout Stockport & Cheshire area, including the Greater Manchester area. Our focus is not only on resolving immediate concerns but also on securing your future prospects. If you’re seeking professional support regarding a Settlement Agreement, contact our experienced team today.

What is a Settlement Agreement?

A settlement agreement is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions under which an employee will leave a company. It will be mutually agreed-upon contract between the employer and the employee, and will help to avoid lengthy and expensive legal disputes. 

The agreement is particularly useful in situations where an employee is facing redundancy, or when there are disputes related to discrimination or grievances. The agreement sets out the terms of the employee’s departure, including any financial compensation, benefits, and the length of time the employee will be paid after leaving the company. 

The agreement also addresses issues such as confidentiality, non-disparagement, and non-compete clauses. It ensures that the employee will not disclose any confidential information about the company or disparage the company in any way, and that the employee will not compete with the company for a certain period of time after leaving.

An Employment Settlement Agreement provides a clean break for both parties, with terms that are mutually agreed upon. It is a useful tool for resolving disputes and avoiding lengthy and costly legal proceedings.

The process of preparing a Settlement Agreement typically takes only a few days, and if necessary, it can be prepared within a few hours at an extra charge. The agreement should be drafted by a qualified employment lawyer to ensure that it complies with the relevant laws and regulations.

Once all parties have signed the Settlement Agreement, compensation is usually paid within 7-21 days. However, certain payments, such as outstanding salary, accrued holiday, bonuses, or commission payments, may be made through the payroll on the regular payroll date. The agreement should also specify the exact compensation amount and the payment method.

It is crucial for both parties to fully understand the terms of the agreement before signing it. We recommend that each party seeks independent legal advice to ensure that their interests are protected, please note this service is for employees only. 

Our Settlement Agreement Solicitors at Mounteney Solicitors play a vital role in this process. We provide comprehensive legal advice and ensure that you fully understand every aspect of your Settlement Agreement.

How can our Settlement Agreement Solicitors Help? 

Our Settlement Agreement Solicitors at Mounteney are dedicated to providing you with expert legal assistance tailored to your individual needs during the negotiation and drafting of Settlement Agreements. We understand the complexities involved and are committed to guiding you through every step, ensuring the process is as straightforward and beneficial as possible. 

Our aim is to equip you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision about your Settlement Agreement. We handle every case with the highest level of confidentiality and discretion, prioritising the protection of your privacy and reputation throughout the process.

If you’re an employee seeking advice on an agreement proposed by your employer, our team can provide customised support. Our service extends beyond the signing of the agreement. We are here to offer ongoing legal advice and assistance as you move forward, including matters related to restrictive covenants or other future legal needs.

Choosing to work with Mounteney Solicitors means opting for a service that is not only professional and responsive but also personal and good value. Our goal is to deliver legal expertise alongside a service that reflects the unique needs and circumstances of each client. For support that goes beyond the standard, reaching out to our Compromise Agreement Solicitors will ensure you navigate your employment transition with confidence and clarity.

Your supplier is SRA-regulated Mounteney Solicitors, that charges VAT some customers may be able to reclaim.

Our legal fees will be charged at a fixed fee of £600 + VAT = £720; often the employer will be prepared to pay the employee’s legal costs, in which instances when acting for employee we may well be willing to agree to do the work for the fee the employer states, provided that fee is not too far off our standard fee outlined here – please enquire if this arises.

There is more about our fees on our website.

Do I have to agree with a Settlement Agreement? 

No, you are not obligated to agree to a Settlement Agreement presented to you. These agreements are entirely voluntary and require the consent of both the employer and the employee to be legally binding. If you are presented with a Settlement Agreement, it is essential to carefully consider the terms and evaluate whether they meet your needs and expectations.

Settlement Agreements are designed to conclude an employment relationship in a way that’s agreeable to both parties, often including conditions more favourable than standard termination or dismissal processes. Before making any decisions, seeking independent legal advice is highly recommended.

What Happens if a Settlement Agreement is Breached? 

If a Settlement Agreement is breached, the aggrieved party has the right to enforce the agreement through legal means. Breaches can occur in various forms, such as non-payment of the agreed sum of money, failure to adhere to confidentiality clauses, or any other violation of the terms stipulated in the agreement. Since Settlement Agreements are a legally binding contract, the breach of such agreements is treated with utmost seriousness and the injured party can seek redress in court.

What can be Included in a Settlement Agreement? 

A Settlement Agreement is a legal document that outlines the terms of employment termination. It can cover a variety of topics tailored to the specific circumstances of the termination. These typically include financial compensation, such as severance pay, outstanding salary, bonuses, and expenses owed. It’s important to note that up to £30,000 of this compensation can often be received tax-free. The agreement will also detail any agreements regarding the notice period, whether it will be worked or paid in lieu.

In addition to financial terms, Settlement Agreements often cover non-financial matters such confidentiality, returning company property, and agreeing to a reference for the employee. The agreements may also confirm or modify any post-termination restrictions, such as non-compete or non-solicitation clauses. This ensures that both parties understand the employee’s obligations after leaving the company. Settlement Agreements are highly specific and help to bring a comprehensive conclusion to the employment relationship, preventing future disputes or misunderstandings.

Is a Settlement Agreement the same as Redundancy? 

No, a Settlement Agreement is not the same as redundancy. Redundancy is a specific reason for terminating employment, which happens when an employer needs to reduce their workforce. It is a fair reason for dismissal under employment law. 

A Settlement Agreement is a legal contract between an employee and employer that ends their employment relationship on agreed terms. Although redundancy may lead to the offer of a Settlement Agreement, the agreement can cover a broader range of scenarios beyond redundancy, such as dispute resolution or voluntary departures.

If you’re navigating the complexities of a Settlement Agreement, our expert Settlement Agreement Solicitors at Mounteney Solicitors are here to provide you with the guidance and support you need. 

Our solicitors in Stockport have four offices located in Bramhall, Cheadle, Hazel Grove and Heald Green. We possess in-depth knowledge of employment law and regularly act from clients in Stockport, Cheshire and the Greater Manchester area. 

With our in-depth knowledge and experience, we ensure that your interests are protected and your rights upheld, offering peace of mind during what can be a challenging time. Whether you’re seeking to understand your entitlements, negotiate the terms of your agreement or need comprehensive legal advice on the implications of signing, we’re here to help.

Contact Mounteney Solicitors today to ensure your Employment Settlement Agreement is handled professionally and efficiently, with your best interests at the forefront. Let us assist you in achieving a resolution that is fair, satisfactory, and allows you to move forward with confidence. 

If you have any questions, require any further information, or would like to engage us on the T&Cs linked Our Terms in the footer below, please don’t hesitate to Contact Us.