The Ministry of Justice (“MoJ”) has published the results of its consultation on the introduction of fees in employment tribunals. The changes are intended to be implemented in summer 2013. The MoJ has made it clear that the purpose of introducing fees is to lower the cost of the employment tribunal system to the taxpayer and they have abandoned the previous rationale that it was about reducing the number of weak claims to help business.
Here are the key points:-
- level 1 claims (the very straightforward ones such as unlawful deductions) - £160 issue fee; £230 hearing fee;
- level 2 claims (pretty much everything else) - £250 issue fee; £950 hearing fee;
- Employment Appeal Tribunal - £400 appeal fee; £1,200 hearing fee; and
- there are several other fees, for example £60 for an application to dismiss following settlement and £600 for judicial mediation.
Paul Burton, Employment Solicitor, says "The MoJ has stated, quite openly, that these fees do not cover the actual cost of running the employment tribunal system and the government is committed to reviewing the fee structure once it is implemented."
Get in touch if you need more information on this topic. You should find the other articles in August's employment newsletter of interest.
For a free initial meeting please call 01202 499255 and Kate or Paul will be happy to discuss any questions you may have.