Settlement Agreement Legal Advice in London
Leaving your job, either through redundancy or by agreement, can be both a daunting and difficult process for the employee.
Here at Lewis Nedas Law, we can provide expert, quick, and tailored advice with regard to any settlement agreement that an employee has received from their employer with regard to the termination of employment.
We provide initial advice to the employee prior to receiving the agreement and either before or after protected conversations that have taken place with the employer.
We provide quick and clear advice with regard to the settlement agreement that has been given to the employee.
We provide advice as to the terms of the settlement agreement, and importantly, advise on the fairness of the financial terms being offered.
We provide accurate advice as to the terms and conditions with regard to issues relating to confidentiality, restricted covenants, and the employee’s rights with regard to the whole agreement.
We are able provide that advice within 24 hours of receiving the draft agreement from the employee.
We do not charge the employee for advice in relation to the settlement agreement. Any fee incurred by this firm is paid for by the employer, and there will be a clause within the agreement setting out the employer’s obligations with regard to payment of fees.
We can provide advice either face-to-face, via video link, or remotely in order to provide the most effective and efficient service to the employee.
Critically, if we do not believe the terms of the settlement agreement are fair, we will advise the employee as to the reasons why and next steps.
It is our aim at Lewis Nedas Law to simplify the process for the employee to relieve the stress and concern that inevitably arises when any employee leaves their job.
The initial call to Lewis Nedas Law will result in initial free advice being provided before any agreement is reached between Lewis Nedas Law and the employee as to acting in relation to the terms and conditions of the settlement agreement.
In the first instance, please contact Miles Herman on 020 4572 1413 or complete our online contact form.
How Lewis Nedas Law Can Help
Our settlement agreement solicitors are committed to providing fast, efficient, and robust advice in plain English. We do not simply rubber stamp agreements; instead, we carefully analyse every detail and discuss all aspects with you to ensure you are making an informed decision.
When you come to us with a settlement agreement, we will:
- Review the agreement in detail to ensure all terms are fair and lawful.
- Advise you on your rights, including any claims you may have and whether the compensation offered is appropriate.
- Negotiate improvements to the agreement if necessary, such as higher compensation, better references, or the removal of restrictive clauses.
- Explain the implications of each clause, including confidentiality, tax treatment of payments, and the impact on future employment.
- Ensure you understand exactly what you are agreeing to before you sign, so you do not inadvertently give up valuable rights.
- Provide the mandatory independent legal advice required by law, allowing the agreement to be legally binding and enforceable.
Our team has extensive experience in advising on settlement agreements across a range of industries and seniority levels, from junior employees to directors and executives.
The Settlement Agreement Process
The process begins when your employer presents you with a settlement agreement, often following redundancy, a workplace dispute, or as part of an exit package. You should never feel pressured to sign immediately. Instead, you should seek prompt legal advice from a specialist settlement agreement solicitor.
We will arrange a confidential consultation—either in person, by phone, or online—where we will review the agreement and discuss your circumstances. We will identify any areas of concern, advise on your options, and, if necessary, negotiate with your employer for improved terms.
Once you are happy with the terms, we will ensure all legal formalities are completed, and you will sign the agreement. Your employer will usually pay our legal fees directly, so there is often no cost to you.
Settlement Agreements: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you have been offered a settlement agreement, it is important to understand the process before you sign. Taking the right steps can help you protect your rights, assess whether the financial package is fair, and negotiate better terms where needed.
Step 1: Receive the Settlement Agreement
Your employer will usually give you a draft settlement agreement after redundancy, a workplace dispute, or as part of an agreed exit. Do not feel pressured to sign immediately.
Step 2: Read the Main Terms Carefully
Check the key points, including compensation, notice pay, references, confidentiality clauses, tax treatment, and any post-employment restrictions. These terms can have a significant impact on your finances and future career.
Step 3: Take Independent Legal Advice
A settlement agreement is only legally binding if you receive independent legal advice from a qualified adviser. A solicitor will explain what rights you are waiving and whether the terms are fair.
Step 4: Review Whether the Financial Package Is Fair
You should consider whether the compensation reflects your notice entitlement, holiday pay, redundancy pay, bonuses, commission, benefits, or any potential employment claims you may have.
Step 5: Check Restrictive Clauses and References
Look closely at confidentiality clauses, non-compete restrictions, non-solicitation terms, and the wording of any agreed reference. These terms should be reasonable and clearly drafted.
Step 6: Negotiate Better Terms if Needed
If the offer is too low or the wording is too restrictive, your solicitor can negotiate with your employer. This may include seeking higher compensation, improved references, or changes to specific clauses.
Step 7: Sign the Agreement Once You Are Happy
Once the terms have been agreed and you fully understand the document, you can sign the settlement agreement. Your solicitor will usually sign the adviser’s certificate to confirm independent legal advice has been given.
Step 8: Receive Payment and Finalise Your Exit
After signing, your employer should make payment in line with the dates set out in the agreement. You should also keep a copy of the signed agreement for your records.
Typical Terms Covered in a Settlement Agreement
Settlement agreements usually address several key areas, including:
- Financial compensation (such as redundancy pay, ex gratia payments, or payment in lieu of notice)
- Notice period and payment arrangements
- Waiver of claims (such as unfair dismissal, discrimination, or breach of contract)
- Confidentiality clauses and non-disparagement provisions
- References to be provided to future employers
- Return of company property
- Tax treatment of payments
- Post-employment restrictions (such as non-compete or non-solicitation clauses)
We will explain the implications of each of these terms and ensure that your interests are fully protected.
Why Choose Lewis Nedas Law?
Specialist Employment Lawyers: Our solicitors have decades of experience advising on settlement agreements and all aspects of employment law.
- Personal Service: We listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide advice tailored to your individual situation.
- Transparent Fees: In most cases, your employer will pay our fees, so you have peace of mind.
- Prompt, Efficient Service: We understand that time is often of the essence and offer same-day or next-day appointments where possible.
- Proven Track Record: We have helped thousands of clients across London achieve favourable outcomes in settlement agreement negotiations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is accepting a settlement agreement voluntary?
Yes, signing a settlement agreement is entirely voluntary. You cannot be forced to accept the terms if you are not happy with them.
Who pays for the independent legal advice in a settlement agreement?
Your employer typically pays or contributes to the cost of your independent legal advice as part of the settlement agreement process.
Will my settlement agreement include provisions about share options or bonuses?
Senior executive settlement agreements often address outstanding share options, LTIPs (long-term incentive plans), bonuses, and other contractual benefits. These provisions should be carefully reviewed and negotiated to ensure you receive the full value of what you are owed.
What happens if my employer breaches the settlement agreement?
If your employer does not fulfil their obligations in the agreement, you can make a breach of contract claim in the county court.
How soon will I receive my settlement payment?
Settlement payments are usually processed promptly after signing the agreement, but check the specific date and terms stated in your agreement.
Can I negotiate the terms of a settlement agreement?
Yes, you can and should negotiate the terms if they are not acceptable to you. Our settlement agreement lawyers can help you secure better financial terms, improved references, or changes to restrictive covenants.
Why do I need independent legal advice for a settlement agreement?
Independent legal advice is a legal requirement to ensure you fully understand the implications of the agreement and are not waiving your rights unfairly. Without this advice, the agreement is not legally binding.
What happens if I sign a settlement agreement without legal advice?
If you sign without receiving independent legal advice, the settlement agreement will not be enforceable, and you may lose the protection it offers.
How long does the settlement agreement process take?
The process can often be completed within a few days, depending on the complexity of the agreement and the speed of negotiations. We offer prompt appointments and efficient turnaround to minimise any delay.
What should I do if I feel pressured to sign a settlement agreement?
You should not feel pressured to sign anything on the spot. Take the agreement away, seek independent legal advice, and make sure you are comfortable with all the terms before signing. Our solicitors can help you understand your options and negotiate on your behalf if needed.
Contact Lewis Nedas Law Today
If you have been offered a settlement agreement or want advice about your employment rights, contact our settlement agreement lawyers in London today on 020 4572 1413 or complete our online enquiry form. Let us help you protect your interests, secure the best possible terms, and move forward with confidence.
