posted 22nd February 2026
If an employee has threatened to take you to an Employment Tribunal, you need legal advice before taking your next step. One wrong decision, especially dismissal made in frustration, can significantly increase compensation exposure.
Meridian Legal Services advises UK employers on:
- Responding to tribunal threats
- Dismissing staff legally
- Settlement agreements for employers
- Managing grievances and disciplinary processes
- ACAS Early Conciliation
- Defending Employment Tribunal claims
Contact us today on 0121 5160675 for a confidential discussion before the situation escalates.
What Should Employers Do If an Employee Threatens a Tribunal Claim?
If an employee says they are “taking you to tribunal,” the matter should be treated as legally active. Common triggers include:
- Disciplinary action
- Performance management
- Redundancy selection
- Refusal of flexible working
- Allegations of discrimination
- Workplace grievances
Many employers make the mistake of reacting emotionally. That reaction often becomes evidence.
How to Dismiss an Employee Legally in the UK.
One of the most searched employer questions is: “How do I dismiss an employee legally?” Under the Employment Rights Act 1996, a dismissal must:
- Be for a potentially fair reason
- Follow a fair procedure
- Be reasonable in all the circumstances
Even where misconduct is clear, failure to follow a proper process can result in an unfair dismissal claim. A legally compliant dismissal process typically includes:
- Investigation
- Written allegations
- Disciplinary hearing
- Right to accompaniment
- Outcome decision in writing
- Right of appeal
Tribunals place significant weight on procedural fairness. The Acas Code of Practice applies, and compensation can be increased by up to 25% where employers fail to follow it. Before dismissing an employee who has raised grievances, discrimination concerns, or legal complaints, employers should seek legal advice, as additional protections may apply regardless of service length.
Should You Offer a Settlement Agreement?
In many disputes, a settlement agreement for employers is the safest commercial option. A properly structured settlement agreement can:
- End employment cleanly
- Prevent future tribunal claims
- Include confidentiality protections
- Provide certainty of outcome
Settlement discussions must be handled carefully to avoid allegations of improper conduct. Used correctly, they reduce risk. Used incorrectly, they increase it.
Meridian Legal Services regularly advises employers on when settlement is appropriate and negotiates terms on your behalf.
How Meridian Legal Services Supports Employers.
We provide practical, commercially focused employment law advice for UK businesses. Our services include:
- Immediate advice when an employee threatens a claim
- Guidance on how to dismiss staff legally
- Drafting and negotiating settlement agreements
- Managing disciplinary and grievance procedures
- Representing employers in ACAS Early Conciliation
- Employment Tribunal defence
We focus on resolving disputes efficiently while protecting your business.
