I Have Been Dismissed from Work
Being dismissed is stressful and confusing. Whether or not you believe the dismissal was fair, there are steps you should take quickly to protect your rights. Time limits are strict.
Estimated timeline
Ask your employer to confirm the dismissal and the reason for it in writing. You have a legal right to a written statement of reasons for dismissal if you have at least 2 years of service (or if you are pregnant or on certain types of leave). Note the exact date of dismissal — this starts the clock for any tribunal claim.
Most employers have an appeals procedure. You should submit a written appeal, usually within 5 working days of the decision, even if you believe the outcome will not change. Appealing is important — a tribunal may reduce any compensation award by up to 25% if you unreasonably failed to appeal internally. Ask a colleague or trade union rep to accompany you to the hearing.
Before you can make an Employment Tribunal claim, you must notify ACAS and go through Early Conciliation. This is free and mandatory. You can do this online or by phone. ACAS will contact your employer and try to help you reach a settlement without going to tribunal. The time you spend in Early Conciliation pauses the tribunal deadline.
Submit an Employment Tribunal claim
Tribunal hearings can take 6-18 months to be scheduledIf conciliation does not resolve matters, you can submit an ET1 claim form to the Employment Tribunal. The deadline is 3 months minus 1 day from your dismissal date (time spent in Early Conciliation does not count). Submit using MyHMCTS online. Unfair dismissal claims require 2 years' continuous service in most cases.
Throughout this process, seek free advice from Citizens Advice, Acas, or your trade union if you have one. If your case is complex or involves discrimination claims (which can be brought from day one, with no minimum service requirement), consider consulting an employment solicitor — many offer a free initial consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need 2 years' service to claim unfair dismissal?
How much can I claim at an Employment Tribunal?
Can I get legal aid for an Employment Tribunal?
Official bodies and resources
Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service
GovernmentProvides free, impartial advice on workplace relations and employment law, and offers early conciliation before tribunal claims.
Citizens Advice
CharityProvides free, confidential, and independent advice on a wide range of issues including benefits, housing, debt, and employment.
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