Disciplinary Proceedings

If you’ve been called into a disciplinary meeting, it’s normal to feel anxious. Whether it’s about conduct or performance, the stakes can be high as your job, reputation, and future could all be affected. We’re here to help you stay calm, understand your rights, and respond in the right way. Employers must follow fair processes under the ACAS Code. If they don’t, we’ll make sure it’s challenged and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

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Grey image placeholder with image icon centralised

Early legal advice and ACAS Code rights

We’ll explain the disciplinary policy, key deadlines, evidence requirements and your legal rights from the start, ensuring compliance with the ACAS Code from the outset.

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Building your defence

We’ll help you draft strong, consistent statements and gather evidence to support your version of events by aligning facts with policy and highlighting procedural flaws.

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Preparing for interviews and hearings

From companion rights to effective answers, we’ll help you get ready and stay composed throughout the process. We will advise you on likely questions, documents, reasonable adjustments, companion rights, and an effective, calm presentation.

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Exploring alternatives to dismissal and settlements

We’ll work with you to secure other options where possible. Such as, redeployment, retraining, performance plans, warnings in place of dismissal, and settlement agreements with protected conversations.

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Suspension, pay, and benefits

Ensuring inappropriate suspensions are challenged, full pay is secured where due, and contractual benefits are safeguarded during the process.

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Appeals and representation

If the outcome’s unfair, we’ll handle your appeal submission and assess claim prospects. Or take it further through ACAS and Employment Tribunal claims.

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Questions we’re often asked

What is a disciplinary investigation?

It’s the employer’s process for gathering facts when there’s a concern about behaviour or performance.

Do I have a right to be accompanied?

Yes. You can be accompanied by a colleague or certified trade union representative at any formal disciplinary meeting.

Can my employer suspend me without pay?

In most cases, no. Suspension should be on full pay unless your contract permits otherwise.

What if my employer breaches the ACAS Code?

You could receive up to 25% more compensation if the process is found to be unfair in the Tribunal.

Should I submit a written statement?

Yes. A well-prepared statement can support your case and show where the process hasn’t been followed properly.

When should I get legal advice?

As early as possible, ideally before interviews or responding to allegations.

Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
Euan Lawrence was fantastic; he was efficient, understanding, and very clear in his communication on points of law. He actively listened and gave brilliant professional advice. The administrative team that supported and worked with him was equally helpful and efficient.
Legal 500
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
Euan made himself available and kept me informed of timelines and progress. I was not rushed or interrupted.
Legal 500
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
The key thing for me was the empathy and emotional intelligence that Euan Lawrence demonstrated. He was patient, actively listened, and explained points of law to me in a simple yet not condescending manner. I was referred to him by another colleague who had gone through the same process.
Legal 500
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
Excellent real-world and experienced knowledge, very clear communication, and transparent billing.
Legal 500
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
Euan Lawrence is expert in the field of employment law.
Legal 500
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
I feel the approach from all the staff at Blacks has been first class. David Ward has carefully guided me through the process and often picks up the phone for a chat to offer advice on things to do and things to avoid.
Legal 500
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
A very friendly and approachable law firm. All the way through, the whole team at Blacks has been extremely supportive, providing excellent advice and support.
Legal 500
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
The team has a wide range of knowledge and skills. My case required senior partners to apprentice-level support. Everyone I met and had contact with was kind, professional, and personable. It felt amazing to have such an awesome team in my corner, showing support and wishing me luck with my case.
Legal 500
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
Paul Kelly is knowledgeable, action-focused, and has taken the time to learn about us and our sector. He is a great sounding board.
Legal 500
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
I find the team to be really responsive and helpful, providing excellent advice and support at all times. Nothing has been too much trouble, and we have really valued their support.
Legal 500

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