Employment tribunals deal with claims brought against employers by employees, typically relating to unfair and wrongful dismissals, discrimination, equal pay, and unlawful deductions from wages. Employees must contact Acas first to try to resolve the dispute through early conciliation if matters have not been resolved directly with the employer.

This factsheet examines the first steps in starting a claim and the employer‘s response. It looks at the types of hearing, preparation, procedures and outcomes. 

Member tool: CIPD Buddy AI
Use AI to find trusted answers on our Knowledge hub. Start using CIPD Buddy

On this page

To continue reading, log in or become a member

Affiliate membership offers instant access to CIPD resources without the need for assessments or study, or explore your options to become a professional member of the CIPD to demonstrate your commitment to the world of work.

  • Access to exclusive, up-to-date resources
  • Become part of a community to learn, debate and connect with other people professionals
  • Free access to a series of CIPD learning courses and a discount on the rest of our catalogue
Instant access Explore membership
  • Employment law

    Tribunal claims: UK employment law

    Explore our legal resource on the issues involved in an employment tribunal claim, including Q&As and relevant case law

    For Members
  • Data

    Data hub

    Explore the evidence behind workforce trends

  • Factsheet

    Dismissal procedures

    Introductory guidance on dismissal in the UK, with advice on following a fair dismissal procedure

    For Members
    • Factsheets