Employment Tribunal Leaving Card: A Guide to Your Rights
Introduction
Leaving a job can be a daunting experience, especially if you have concerns about your employment rights. An employment tribunal leaving card is a document that can help you understand your legal options and the steps you need to take if you believe you have been mistreated by your employer.
What is an Employment Tribunal Leaving Card?
An employment tribunal leaving card is a document provided by the government's Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS). It is given to employees who are leaving their job, and it outlines the basic rights and responsibilities of both employees and employers.
What Information is Included on an Employment Tribunal Leaving Card?
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Your rights: The card explains your rights under employment law, such as the right to fair treatment, equal pay, and protection against discrimination.
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How to contact an employment tribunal: The card provides information on how to contact an employment tribunal if you believe you have been mistreated by your employer.
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Time limits: The card explains the time limits for bringing a claim to an employment tribunal.
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Evidence: The card explains the importance of gathering evidence to support your claim.
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Further information: The card provides links to ACAS and other organizations that can provide further information and support.
Why is an Employment Tribunal Leaving Card Important?
An employment tribunal leaving card is important for the following reasons:
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It helps you understand your rights: The card provides clear and concise information on your legal rights as an employee.
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It can help you avoid costly mistakes: Knowing your rights can help you avoid making costly mistakes, such as missing deadlines or filing a claim that is not supported by evidence.
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It can provide access to justice: If you have been mistreated by your employer, an employment tribunal can provide a fair hearing and the opportunity to resolve your complaint.
How to Use an Employment Tribunal Leaving Card
If you are leaving your job, it is important to read your employment tribunal leaving card carefully. The card will provide you with valuable information on your legal rights and the steps you need to take if you have concerns about your employment.
Tips for Using an Employment Tribunal Leaving Card
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Keep the card in a safe place: You may need to refer to the card in the future, so keep it in a safe place where you can easily find it.
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Read the card carefully: The card contains important information, so read it carefully and make sure you understand what it says.
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Take action promptly: If you believe you have been mistreated by your employer, take action promptly. There are time limits for bringing a claim to an employment tribunal, so it is important to act quickly.
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Gather evidence to support your claim: If you bring a claim to an employment tribunal, you will need to provide evidence to support your case. This could include documents, emails, or witness statements.
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Seek professional advice: If you are unsure about your rights or how to proceed with a claim, you can seek professional advice from a lawyer who specializes in employment law.
Table 1: Time Limits for Bringing a Claim to an Employment Tribunal
Type of Claim |
Time Limit |
Unfair dismissal |
3 months from the date of dismissal |
Discrimination |
3 months from the date of the last discriminatory act |
* Equal pay |
6 months from the date of the discriminatory act |
Breach of contract |
6 years from the date of the breach |
Table 2: Steps to Take if You Believe You Have Been Mistreated by Your Employer
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Gather evidence to support your claim. This could include documents, emails, or witness statements.
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Contact ACAS. ACAS can provide free and impartial advice on your rights and options.
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Consider taking legal advice. If you are unsure about your rights or how to proceed with a claim, you can seek professional advice from a lawyer who specializes in employment law.
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Bring a claim to an employment tribunal. If you believe you have a valid claim, you can bring it to an employment tribunal.
Table 3: Benefits of Bringing a Claim to an Employment Tribunal
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Compensation: If you win your case, you may be awarded compensation for the losses you have suffered as a result of your employer's wrongdoing.
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Reinstatement or re-engagement: If your claim is for unfair dismissal, you may be able to get your job back or be offered a similar job with the same employer.
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Improved workplace practices: A successful claim can help to improve workplace practices and prevent other employees from being mistreated.
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Access to justice: An employment tribunal can provide a fair hearing and the opportunity to resolve your complaint.
Call to Action
If you are leaving your job, it is important to understand your legal rights and the steps you need to take if you believe you have been mistreated by your employer. The employment tribunal leaving card is a valuable resource that can help you to protect yourself from unfair treatment.