When problems arise at work, many employees are unsure where to turn. Whether you are facing unfair treatment, job insecurity, or questions about your rights, understanding employment law is the first step toward protecting yourself. Marley Solicitors in Doncaster offers tailored legal advice to support workers in a range of employment issues. We focus on clarity and practicality, as well as protecting your interests.
Your legal rights as an employee
From your first day on the job, you are protected by a number of legal rights. These apply regardless of your position, contract type, or industry. Some of the core protections include:
- The right to a written statement of employment terms
- Entitlement to at least the national minimum wage
- Protection from unfair dismissal (after a qualifying period)
- The right to a safe and respectful workplace
- Equal treatment regardless of protected characteristics
These rights are not optional. If you suspect your employer is ignoring or undermining them, you may have grounds for legal action.
Responding to workplace discrimination
Discrimination can take many forms, and it often affects not just your job but your overall wellbeing. Under the Equality Act, it is unlawful for an employer to treat you unfairly based on factors such as your race, sex, disability, religion or sexual orientation.
Common examples of unlawful discrimination include:
- Being passed over for promotion due to pregnancy
- Facing offensive remarks about your age or ethnicity
- Being denied reasonable adjustments for a disability
If you have experienced this type of treatment, it is important to keep written records and seek legal guidance promptly.
Redundancy and dismissals
Redundancy is sometimes necessary in business, but the law requires employers to follow a clear and fair process. If your role is at risk, you should be given proper notice, consulted on the reasons, and offered suitable alternatives where possible.
If a dismissal occurs and the reason is not genuine, or if the procedure was flawed, this may amount to unfair dismissal. Constructive dismissal may also arise where you feel forced to resign due to unacceptable conduct from your employer, such as drastic changes to your contract or unresolved bullying.
Marley Solicitors can help assess whether a dismissal was lawful and advise you on your next steps.
Workplace grievances and how to raise them
Not all workplace problems involve termination. Many employees face ongoing issues such as harassment, being overworked, or feeling sidelined. In these cases, a formal grievance may help resolve the matter.
A typical grievance process involves:
- Writing a clear letter that outlines your concerns
- Attending a meeting to discuss your complaint
- Receiving a formal response from your employer
- Pursuing an appeal if the issue is unresolved
The way a grievance is handled can affect your ability to bring a claim later, so it is wise to take advice at an early stage.
Changes to contracts and employment terms
Your contract is the legal foundation of your job. If your employer tries to change it without your agreement, such as reducing your hours or moving you to a different location, you may have grounds to challenge it.
While some changes can be made with proper consultation, others could breach the terms of your employment. It is important not to agree to changes without understanding the long-term impact. Our solicitors can review the terms and help you respond confidently.
Advice on parental and family rights
Working parents and carers have strong legal protections under UK employment law. These include:
- Paid maternity and paternity leave
- The right to request flexible working
- Protection from dismissal during pregnancy and maternity
- Shared parental leave options
If your employer refuses to accommodate these rights or treats you unfairly because of family responsibilities, this may amount to discrimination. We regularly support clients who have faced these challenges and help them secure a fair outcome.
Settlement agreements and negotiations
If your employer offers you a settlement agreement, it is important not to sign it before taking legal advice. These agreements are legally binding and typically waive your right to make future claims.
Our role is to:
- Ensure you fully understand the terms
- Negotiate better compensation if needed
- Confirm that your legal rights are being protected
We often work to short deadlines, so if you are facing pressure to sign, get in touch quickly.
Taking your case to an employment tribunal
If informal resolution is not possible, you may be able to bring a claim to an employment tribunal. This process allows you to challenge:
- Unfair or wrongful dismissal
- Discrimination or harassment
- Unpaid wages or unlawful deductions
- Breach of contract
Strict time limits apply, usually three months from the date of the incident. Before you submit a claim, you must also go through ACAS early conciliation. We can represent you throughout the process, helping you present your case clearly and professionally.
Why workers in Doncaster choose Marley Solicitors
At Marley Solicitors, we believe that every worker deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Based in Doncaster, we understand the challenges facing local employees and offer realistic legal support based on experience.
We are proud to:
- Offer clear, jargon-free advice
- Help clients across all sectors, from education to logistics
- Fight for your rights at every stage
- Act quickly when time limits apply
Whether you are starting a grievance, signing a settlement or facing redundancy, we are here to help.
Contact our employment law team today
If you are dealing with a workplace issue and need expert legal advice, contact Marley Solicitors in Doncaster. Our employment law team will explain your rights, outline your options, and provide support every step of the way.
