Every workplace matter is different. The appropriate scope of work — and therefore its cost — will depend on the complexity, urgency, level of risk and support required.Before accepting instructions, we will explain:the work we propose to undertake;how our fees will be calculated;any assumptions or exclusions;the likely overall cost or an initial cost estimate; andany third-party costs that may arise.We will keep costs under review as the matter progresses and tell you promptly if there is a material change to the anticipated scope or fee.All fees are stated exclusive of VAT, which will be charged at the applicable rate where required.
How we charge
Depending on the nature of the work, we may charge:by reference to time spent;a fixed fee for a clearly defined piece of work;a capped fee for an agreed scope;a project fee for investigations, organisational change or international coordination; oran ongoing retainer for regular advisory support.
Our hourly rate is: Founder and Principal Solicitor: £400 plus VAT per hourConsultants: £390 plus VAT per hour
Our fees reflect specialist employment expertise, senior involvement and the quality of our training and experience. Our boutique model allows us to deliver that advice in a focused and cost-effective way.
Our fees reflect specialist employment expertise, senior involvement and the quality of our training and experience. Our boutique model allows us to deliver that advice in a focused and cost-effective way.
Employment law and people advisory
Our employment law and people advisory work may include:employee relations advice;disciplinary, grievance, performance and capability matters;sickness absence and reasonable adjustments;contracts, policies and workplace documentation;senior exits and settlement strategy;redundancy and organisational change; andstrategic advice where a dispute may be developing.The cost will depend on the level of support required. A discrete piece of advice may involve a short review and recommendation, while a complex employee relations matter may require support over several weeks or months.Once we understand the issue, we will provide an estimate or agree a suitable fee arrangement with you.
Workplace investigations
Investigation fees will depend on factors including:the nature and number of allegations;the number of witnesses;the volume of documentation;whether interviews are conducted remotely or in person;the complexity and sensitivity of the issues;the form of findings or report required; andthe anticipated timetable.Where the scope can be defined at the outset, we will ordinarily propose a fixed or capped project fee.Any material change in scope — such as additional allegations, witnesses or documents — will be discussed with you before further costs are incurred wherever practicable.
Workplace mediation
Mediation may be charged on a fixed-fee basis, taking account of:the number of participants;the nature and complexity of the dispute;the preparatory work required;whether the mediation takes place over a half or full day; andwhether any follow-up support or written outcome is required.We will provide a clear quotation once we have undertaken an initial conflict check and understand the proposed mediation.
Redundancy and organisational change
Fees for redundancy and organisational change work depend on matters such as:the number of affected employees;whether individual or collective consultation is required;the proposed timetable;the complexity of the selection exercise;the extent of document drafting required;whether settlement agreements are proposed; andthe level of support required during consultation.We may offer a fixed or phased project fee where the scope and timetable are sufficiently clear.
International employment coordination
International employment coordination may include UK employment advice and the management of local employment counsel across one or more jurisdictions.Our fees may be calculated by reference to time spent or agreed as a project fee or cap. The fees of local counsel are separate and will ordinarily be agreed directly between you and the relevant local firm.We will explain:our role;the work to be undertaken by local counsel;how fees will be managed; andany assumptions relating to the number of jurisdictions or workstreams.Our legal advice is limited to the laws of England and Wales. Advice on overseas law will be provided by appropriately qualified local counsel.
Settlement agreements for employers
We advise employers on settlement strategy and the preparation and negotiation of settlement agreements.Fees will depend on whether the matter involves:a straightforward agreed exit;negotiation with the employee or their adviser;redundancy, performance, disciplinary or grievance issues;senior executive terms;bonus, equity or incentive arrangements;restrictive covenants;regulatory considerations; orsignificant legal or reputational risk.We may provide a fixed fee for a straightforward agreement or an estimate based on the anticipated work for more complex matters.
Settlement agreement advice for employees
We provide independent advice to employees who have been offered settlement agreements.An employer will usually contribute towards the cost of the required independent advice. In straightforward cases, that contribution may cover our fee in full.Additional fees may apply where:the agreement or circumstances are complex;substantial supporting documents require review;advice is required on potential claims or negotiation strategy;amendments are sought;we are asked to negotiate with the employer or its advisers;the matter involves senior executive remuneration, incentives or restrictive covenants; orurgent or out-of-hours work is requested.We will explain any additional fee and obtain agreement before undertaking that work.
Tribunal and contentious matters
We do not ordinarily conduct Employment Tribunal litigation or provide advocacy.Where a workplace matter appears likely to escalate, we may provide strategic advice on legal merits, risk, settlement and next steps. Where formal proceedings, advocacy or representation are required, we may work alongside or refer the client to specialist counsel or another appropriate law firm.The fees of counsel or another legal provider will be separate from our fees and will be explained and agreed before they are instructed.
Third-party costs
Some matters may involve costs payable to third parties, such as:barristers;overseas legal advisers;expert witnesses;translators or interpreters;specialist technology or document-management providers;travel or accommodation; orvenue costs for in-person mediation.We will not incur a material third-party cost without discussing it with you first, except where otherwise agreed.
Who will carry out the work?
Work will ordinarily be led by our Founder and Principal Solicitor, a specialist employment lawyer with experience gained in leading international law firms and global financial institutions.Where appropriate, work may also be undertaken by suitably qualified consultants or external specialists. You will be told who is working on your matter, their role and the applicable charging arrangements.
Further information about our experience is available on our [About] page.
Questions about our fees?
We are happy to discuss the likely scope and cost of our involvement before you decide whether to instruct us.[ Get in touch ]
Complaints
We are committed to providing a high-quality service.If you are unhappy with any aspect of our service or charges, please tell us so that we have an opportunity to consider and address your concerns.Details of our complaints procedure, including information about referring eligible complaints to the Legal Ombudsman and concerns to the Solicitors Regulation Authority, are available [here].