Judgment

After the hearing, the ET gives its judgment with reasons. Either it does this verbally at the end of the hearing or it can “reserve” judgment until a later date. It is a fundamental principle of justice that parties must be told clearly why they won or lost (Kelly v Community Link Limited [2013] UKEAT/0444/12/0503).

If judgment is reserved, the ET must put its reasons in writing. If reasons are given verbally at the end of the hearing, the parties can ask for written reasons, either at the end of the hearing or in writing within 14 days (rule 62). It is always sensible to ask for written reasons. They will be essential if you decide to appeal.

In 2017, HM Courts & Tribunals Service launched a searchable online database of tribunal judgments: www.gov.uk/employment-tribunal-decisions. As yet, the database does not include past decisions.