Make a claim to an employment tribunal
What to expect
During an employment tribunal, you may have to:
- provide documents or other evidence
- answer questions about what happened
- attend a hearing
- explain how you calculated any compensation you’re asking for
A tribunal cannot guarantee that you will win your case or receive compensation.
If you have a health condition that could affect you taking part in a hearing, you can tell the tribunal at any time during the process that you may need reasonable adjustments.
What a tribunal costs
You do not have to pay a fee to make a claim to an employment tribunal.
You may have to pay other costs, such as:
- witness expenses
- legal fees
- the respondent’s costs, if the tribunal decides you’ve acted unreasonably
You can find guidance about what it might cost to make a claim to an employment tribunal on Citizens Advice.
What you could get from a tribunal
If you win your case at the employment tribunal, they may order the respondent to pay you compensation. A tribunal does not usually order an employer to apologise.
If you lose your case at the employment tribunal, you can appeal or ask the tribunal to reconsider the decision.
How long a tribunal takes
There is no fixed length of time for an employment tribunal claim. How long it takes depends on:
- the type and complexity of the case
- how many hearings are needed
After your final hearing, you’ll receive the decision within a few weeks.