Grievance Procedure Solicitors for Employees
Specialist employment solicitors in London and the South East – guiding employees through every stage of a grievance procedure.
Practical legal support through the grievance procedure.
If something’s gone wrong at work and you’re not sure where to turn, the grievance procedure can provide a route to resolution. But whether you’re raising concerns or defending your actions, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed – especially when the stakes involve your job, your reputation or your future.
At Thomas Mansfield Solicitors, we help employees and senior executives take control of workplace issues with clear advice, strategic guidance and expert representation.
We’re ranked in the Legal 500, accredited by Lexcel and members of the Employment Lawyers Association. Our solicitors are responsive, approachable and experienced in resolving sensitive workplace disputes.
With offices across London and the South East – and remote consultations available – it’s easy to access the support you need, wherever you are.
When legal advice can make a difference
You don’t need to navigate the process alone. Legal advice can be especially helpful if:
- You’re preparing to submit a formal grievance.
- You’ve been named in a grievance and are unsure how to respond.
- The process feels one-sided or poorly handled.
- You’re worried about the professional or personal consequences.
- A settlement or negotiated exit might be on the table.
Our employment solicitors will help you understand your rights, assess your options and avoid common pitfalls – with a clear focus on protecting your position.
Call our employment law team on 0204 571 1443 or
Understanding your rights in a grievance procedure.
Most employers have a formal grievance procedure. It’s designed to resolve issues fairly, and if used properly, it should support a constructive outcome.
A grievance can relate to:
- Unfair treatment.
- Management decisions.
- Pay or contractual issues.
- Working environment or colleague behaviour.
- Discrimination or harassment.
If you’re raising a grievance.
You have the right to:
- Set out your concerns in writing.
- Attend a meeting to explain the issue.
- Receive a formal decision.
- Appeal the outcome if you’re not satisfied.
If you’re responding to a grievance.
You’re entitled to:
- Be informed of the details of the complaint.
- Respond fully and fairly.
- Be treated respectfully throughout.
- Raise any concerns about how the process is handled.
What happens if a grievance isn’t resolved?
If your employer fails to address your concerns fairly – or if the outcome causes further detriment – you may have grounds for a legal claim. We’ll advise you on your options and represent you in early conciliation, settlement negotiations or employment tribunal proceedings where appropriate.
Meet our employment law partners
Why choose Thomas Mansfield Solicitors.
- Experts in employment law – We specialise in settlement agreements for employees and executives. Recognised in The Legal 500, Lexcel accredited and members of the Employment Lawyers Association.
- Easy to work with – Offices in London and the South East, plus remote consultations for fast, flexible support wherever you are.
- On your side – Whether you’re ready to sign, want better terms or feel unsure, we’ll explain your rights and protect your position.
- Highly rated by clients – Known for clear advice, strong results and a supportive approach during stressful moments.
Call our employment law team on 020 4579 5997 or
Wrongfully dismissed? We’ll help you move forward.
If you’ve been dismissed without proper notice, pay or process, we’re here to make sure you’re treated fairly – and get what you’re owed.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if a grievance is raised against me?
If you’ve been named in a grievance, your employer should share the details with you and give you the opportunity to respond. You may be asked to attend a meeting or provide a written explanation. It’s important to respond calmly and constructively, and to take legal advice early if you’re concerned about your position or reputation. We advise senior executives and employees on how to manage the process and protect their careers.
What’s the difference between a grievance and whistleblowing?
A grievance is usually a complaint about how you personally have been treated. Whistleblowing involves raising concerns about wrongdoing that affects others or the wider organisation - such as fraud, health and safety breaches or legal violations. Both processes are protected by law, but they involve different procedures and risks. If you're unsure which applies, we’ll help you navigate it properly.
What should I do first if I’m dealing with a grievance?
Whether you’re raising a grievance or responding to one, the first step is to understand your rights and obligations. Keep a clear written record, avoid acting in haste and consider getting legal advice early on. Our employee solicitors will listen, advise and guide you through the process - helping you make informed decisions and protect your position from the outset
What is a grievance procedure?
A grievance procedure is a formal process your employer should have in place for dealing with concerns or complaints raised by employees. It typically involves submitting a written grievance, attending a meeting, receiving a written outcome and having the right to appeal. The procedure provides a structured way to address problems such as unfair treatment, breaches of contract or workplace conflict. We guide both employees raising a grievance and those responding to one through every stage with clear legal advice.
What if my employer doesn’t follow the correct process?
If your employer mishandles your grievance - for example, by delaying unreasonably, failing to investigate properly or retaliating against you - you may have grounds for legal action. Employers are expected to follow a fair process in line with the Acas Code of Practice. We can assess whether there’s been a breach and advise you on potential next steps, including a negotiated resolution or employment tribunal claim.
What if I’m offered a settlement during the grievance process?
Some employers propose a settlement or exit package to resolve matters without continuing the grievance. This can be an option worth exploring, but it’s important to get advice before signing anything. We’ll review the offer, negotiate improvements if necessary and make sure your legal rights and career are protected.
What can I raise a grievance about?
You can raise a grievance about any serious issue affecting your role or working environment. This might include unfair treatment, changes to your terms, concerns about workload or management, breaches of policy or contract, bullying, discrimination or health and safety problems. If you’re unsure whether your concern warrants a grievance, we can assess the situation and help you decide the best approach - formal, informal or legal.
Can I appeal a grievance outcome?
Yes. If you’re unhappy with your employer’s decision following a grievance, you’re entitled to appeal. The appeal should be submitted in writing, setting out the reasons you believe the outcome was wrong or the process was unfair. We can help you draft your appeal and strengthen your case, making sure your rights are upheld.
Contact us
Contacting the right person couldn’t be easier. Use our form or call us to speak to an experienced employment solicitor in confidence.
Please note we do not offer legal aid or no win no fee agreements.