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Employment Solicitors in Cardiff
Cardiff employment solicitors offering expert advice on dismissal, discrimination, workplace disputes and settlement agreements.
If you have been dismissed, pressured to sign a settlement agreement, or treated unfairly at work, you need clear legal advice quickly. Employment claims are subject to a strict three-month time limit. The sooner you act, the more options you have.
If you’ve been dismissed, pressured into signing a settlement agreement, or treated unfairly at work, the clock is already running. Most employment claims must reach ACAS for early conciliation within three months less one day of the incident, and that deadline rarely moves. The sooner you speak to someone, the more options you keep open.
Berry Smith’s employment solicitors in Cardiff are ranked by both Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners. Because we also advise employers on the same disputes from the other side, we know how a business and its HR team are likely to respond to your situation, and we use that insight to build your case with fewer surprises along the way.
Talk to an employment solicitor in Cardiff now. Call 02920 345511 for a no-obligation discussion, and we’ll tell you where you stand before you commit to anything.
Employment Law Issues We Can Help With:
Our employment solicitors in Cardiff act for individuals across the full range of workplace disputes, from a difficult conversation with HR through to a full tribunal hearing.
Dismissal and Termination
- Unfair and constructive dismissal, including how compensation is calculated and typical case timescales
- Wrongful dismissal, and how it differs from unfair dismissal claims
- Senior executive terminations, including exit packages involving share schemes and deferred bonuses
- Settlement agreements, reviewed and negotiated on your behalf
Discrimination and Harassment
- Workplace discrimination covering disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership, and pregnancy and maternity
- Bullying and harassment, including where it hasn’t been formally raised yet
- Whistleblowing protection and retaliation claims
Pay, Contracts and Workplace Rights
- Redundancy, including whether your selection process was fair and disputes arising from unclear or unfair employment contracts and workplace policies.
- Unpaid wages, bonuses and commission disputes
- Working time breaches
- Confidentiality clauses and restrictive covenants you’re being asked to sign, or that are limiting your next move
- TUPE transfers and what they mean for your existing terms
Clear, Strategic Advice When You Need It Most
We explain your situation in plain terms, not legal jargon. Clients consistently tell us they felt informed and supported throughout, even when things felt uncertain at the start.
From First Call to Resolution
Our team has represented individuals at every stage, from early conciliation through to the Employment Appeal Tribunal and Court of Appeal, so we know how the other side builds its defence and where your leverage sits as an employee.
Not every dispute needs a tribunal hearing. Where a negotiated exit is right, we push for fair compensation, a clean reference, and terms that protect your future. Where formal proceedings are the better route, we represent you at every stage as determined advocates.
We act across the full range of employee matters, from unpaid wages and unfair redundancy to senior executive terminations involving share schemes, bonuses and long-term benefits. If you’re an employer rather than an employee, our employment law services for businesses cover HR support, tribunal defence and workplace compliance instead. Whatever your situation, our employment solicitors in Cardiff give fast, clear advice from the very first call.
A Track Record Built on Thousands of Cases
We have acted in thousands of employment cases, including proceedings at the Employment Tribunal, the Employment Appeal Tribunal, and the Court of Appeal. That experience means we assess the strength and commercial value of your claim at an early stage so you always know where you stand, what your claim is realistically worth, and what your best options are before committing to any course of action.
Settlement Agreements: What You Need to Know
A settlement agreement is a legally binding document where you agree to waive your right to bring a claim in exchange for compensation and, usually, an agreed reference. Most employment disputes are resolved this way rather than at a tribunal, and it’s one of the areas our employment solicitors in Cardiff handle most often.
If your employer has offered you one, you’re legally required to get independent advice before it’s valid. In most cases, your employer contributes towards that advice, so it costs you little or nothing to have it checked properly.
We review the figure against what your claim is realistically worth, check the reference and announcement wording, and flag restrictive terms such as non-compete clauses that could limit your next role. Where the offer falls short, we negotiate directly with your employer’s solicitors in Cardiff before you sign anything.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to speak to an employment solicitor about a workplace problem?
How much does it cost to speak to an employment solicitor about a workplace problem?
Your first conversation with us is a no-obligation discussion, so you can understand your options before committing to anything. Where your employer has offered a settlement agreement, they will typically contribute towards your legal fees for reviewing it, so this advice often comes at little or no cost to you.
How long do I have to make a claim after being dismissed?
How long do I have to make a claim after being dismissed?
Most employment claims, including unfair dismissal, must be lodged with ACAS for early conciliation within three months less one day of your dismissal or the incident you’re complaining about. This time limit is strict and rarely extended, so it’s important to get advice as early as possible.
Should I sign a settlement agreement my employer has offered me?
Should I sign a settlement agreement my employer has offered me?
Not without independent legal advice, and in most cases that advice is a legal requirement for the agreement to be valid. We’ll review the figures, the reference wording, and any restrictions you’re agreeing to and negotiate improvements where the terms don’t reflect the true value of your claim.
Will my case go to an employment tribunal?
Will my case go to an employment tribunal?
Not necessarily. Many disputes are resolved through negotiation or a settlement agreement without ever reaching a hearing. Where tribunal proceedings are the right route, we’ll advise you honestly on the strength and value of your claim before you commit and represent you through every stage if you decide to proceed.
Can you help if I’ve been treated unfairly but haven’t been dismissed?
Can you help if I’ve been treated unfairly but haven’t been dismissed?
Yes. We advise on a wide range of issues short of dismissal, including discrimination, harassment, unpaid wages, and breaches of your contract or working time rights. Early advice often resolves these situations before they escalate.
Department: Employment
Contact us
If you would like a no obligation discussion, please feel free to contact us either by phone on 02920 345511 or emailing us below.
Key Contacts
What our clients say
I initially made contact with Berry Smith after a Google search for employment lawyers. I spoke to the reception team who took my details and basic information of what I required.
I was called back the same day and had an in depth conversation about my current employment situation.
The solicitor who helped me was extremely diligent, in my opinion going above and beyond of what was required. The case was dealt with quickly and brought to a swift resolution.
I thoroughly recommend Berry Smith for employment issues.
– Employment Law Client
Thank you so much Nia. I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for everything you’ve done since taking this over.
We have all commented on how much the communication has improved. The whole process has become far more transparent, and we really appreciate how efficiently you’ve dealt with everything. We know this has been a long process, and your professionalism, responsiveness and clear communication have made a genuine difference to us all.
– Private Client
As a neurodivergent client, being represented with this level of respect and care was profoundly significant.
Conor’s approach was calm, precise, and deeply principled.
He provided stability at moments when the process itself risked becoming destabilising. Conor is outstanding with vulnerable and neurodivergent clients, uncompromising on safeguarding and wellbeing, and notable for his integrity and judgement under pressure acting swiftly in his clients best interests. His representation has had a lasting and meaningful impact on our lives.
Family Law Client –
I will not hesitate to recommend Eleanor and Berry Smith Lawyers to anyone in need of legal advice and support.
Eleanor was very professional, put me at ease and I felt very confident that Eleanour understood my situation and would represent me well in my dispute with my employer, the service was very prompt and I felt fully informed at all times,
L.G –
I have worked with Berry Smith Lawyers on and off for 10 years.
They have sold a 2 of my houses, produced 2 wills for me and some complex legal agreements that I have needed. They have also given me free advice on some issues over the years and helped me deal with some difficult issues. I am most impressed with the partnership and each of the lawyers I have dealt with, all being strong and firm when dealing with my affairs while remaining personable and easy to work with, a very good combination. I will continue to employ their services in the future without any doubt. Highly recommended.
N.H –
Thank you Georgia Evans & Team for your outstanding conveyancing service.
Thank you for your exceptional conveyancing service. Your professionalism, clear communication, and attention to detail make the process seamless. I truly appreciate your support and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend you.
A.M –
Able to explain things
The exceptional Chris Beames has huge experience, is empathetic and able to explain things in a way that is clear and intelligible.
A B –
Very approachable
Christina is very approachable and responds very quickly to my queries. In the end, I got what I wanted
Gek L –
Couldn’t have done it without you
We are now happily settling into our new home and obviously couldn’t have done it without you, so thanks so much for all your work and help!
Keiran M –
Brilliant experience
Brilliant experience, Georgia and Sharon have been so helpful throughout, responsive to questions and kept me updated. The purchase wasn’t as straightforward as we thought but I was provided with all the advice I needed. Thank you very much!
Sophia L –
They are truly professional
Chris and Sharon have the patience to explain and communicate clearly with any questions. They will pick my calls or return my calls at any point in time and answer my questions. They are truly professionals and I will always use Berry smith LLP.
Alexander D R –
Whole process seemed seamless
Christina was a pleasure to work with – very efficient and the whole process seemed seamless and more importantly painless. I have no hesitation in recommending Christina and Berry Smith for conveyancing work.
Ravi N –
Outstanding from start to finish
Gemma was outstanding from start to finish. No question was too silly and every response was prompt. The estate agent we used even commented to us their happiness with how quickly they got responses from Gemma during this process. She did an excellent job of making it as painless as possible
Dai L –
Would definitely recommend
Christina was brilliant, very friendly and professional and moved very quickly for us. Would definitely recommend to friends and family. Thank you Christina for all of your help.
Bianca W –
Thoughtful balanced and clear
Georgia is extremely good at keeping me informed and her explanations are thoughtful balanced and clear.
Kate M-B –
Experts in the field.
They are very responsive, experts in the field and very good to deal with. They are commercial minded as well and make the transaction very smooth.
S D – Business Client
Professional, friendly legal team.
Professional, friendly legal team. Good responsiveness and sound advice throughout the process
S B – Client
Really great people.
Excellent professional advice, really great people.
M J – Business Client
All round an excellent experience.
Excellent advice – flexible and responsive with timings and availability to reach a tight deadline – reassuring in tone and delivery. All round an excellent experience.
N J – Business Client
They never fail.
Our main reasons are the easy relationship with partners and the never-failing promptness of their response to our queries. Personal contact at all times. The considerable reliance we came to place on their general legal advice. The firm’s approach and method of working was at all times conscientious and professional
J J – Client
Never had a bad experience with them.
Always use Berry Smith for all Legal work, have done for over 15 years & will continue to do so. Never had a bad experience with them.
S P – Business Client
Very easy to understand.
I found the lawyer dealing with my case was able to assess the content of the dispute quickly and then gave easy to understand options together with risks associated with each option.
S P – Business Client
Much better than any other solicitors
Excellent service by a friendly and proactive team. From the start the guidelines clarity of the process and the team communicated well regarding updates. A much better than any other solicitors I have dealt with and a thoroughly professional team to deal with.
M J – Client
Totally professional
Whilst the contact was totally professional, I enjoyed the friendly, “down-to-earth” approach, we could talk on a human-to-human level without the technical speak that you sometimes meet with legal representatives. I also considered that there was a business like, practical attitude
S N – Business Client
Very easy to work with.
Impressed with speed of responses and overall experience. Although a relative straightforward matter, processes completed quickly and efficiently. Easy to work with.
C M – Client
Professional, great communication and very supportive
Really professional, great communication and very supportive. Email and telephone calls were always replied/returned promptly. Very knowledgeable and guidance was always readily available. I have already recommended Berry Smith to a number of friends.
S Z – Client
Friendly, polite and extremely prompt
Everyone I’ve dealt with during the process has been friendly, polite and extremely prompt, and managed to complete the conveyancing on a purchase and sale just before the end of the stamp duty holiday- couldn’t be happier!
E H – Client
Clear, concise, professional
The lady that dealt with my case, was clear, concise, professional and kept me informed at every stage. She was excellent.
A C – Client
Customer care and attention was very thorough
Customer care and attention was very thorough; there was a strong sense that the firm was determined to achieve the best outcome for its clients.
P M B – Client
All meetings were friendly and professional.
I felt communicated with and always in the loop. Any questions I had were answered promptly. All meetings were friendly and professional.
R P – Business Client
Very responsive, knowledgeable and facilitative
It was such a relief to have representation through what is otherwise a very isolating process of undergoing a MBO. Communication was great, very responsive, knowledgeable and facilitative.
C P – Business Client
Advice given was clear and concise
The advice given was clear and concise, the response to the initial contact was prompt and this has been reflected in all the work carried out. I am transferring some property between two SIPP’s and l was very pleased to find the new SIPP had appointed Berry Smith to act on my behalf.
E A – Client
High levels of experience
High levels of experience and technical ability were employed to deliver a comprehensive solution.
P F – Business Client
First class service
A first-class service. Good advice, prompt responses to all enquiries and very good value.
S W – Client
Thanks for all your support.
Thank you so much for all the help, understanding and support to reach this point, it’s been very much appreciated
A M – Business Client
Felt at ease during the process.
Very clear advice, felt at ease during process. I would be happy to use again when I require legal advice.
N R – Client
Professional & Responsive
Professional service, dealing with a single point of contact who is helpful and responsive. Also, having the weight of the Berry smith brand behind us, adds credibility to our business.
A M – AM – Business Client
Very Approachable
We felt that you had an immediate understanding of our requirements. Your response was illustrated in a way whereby we were not clouded by “Legal” jargon. Your team are very approachable.
L C – Client
I couldn’t fault the care and attention.
I couldn’t fault the care and attention given by Berry Smith Lawyers. Their attention to detail and professionalism resulted in a successful outcome to my claim, despite a few setbacks along the way.” I hope I won’t need their help again but wouldn’t hesitate to contact them should the need arise.”
A B – Client
Service provided was excellent.
First solicitor I have ever had any confidence in! I loved how easy my claim was and the service provided was excellent!
T M – Client