Protection from detriment or dismissal

It is automatically unfair to dismiss an employee or to subject them to a detriment (such as withholding a promotion or pay rise) for trying to take advantage of any statutory right. This includes all the rights to family-friendly leave and pay referred to in this Chapter. No service is necessary. (See Chapter 10: Automatically unfair dismissal). Depending on the facts of the case, there may also be a claim for discrimination (See Chapter 6: Discrimination).

Tribunal fees: There are now tribunal fees for all tribunal claims. For information on tribunal fees and fee remission, see Chapter 1.

Acas early conciliation: Under new rules introduced in April 2014, before issuing a tribunal claim, a prospective claimant must first contact Acas under the new Acas early conciliation procedure. From 6 May 2014, this step became compulsory. It must be taken within the normal three-month time limit for bringing the claim. For more information see Chapter 1.