Employment tribunal costs in the UK
Bringing a UK employment tribunal claim has been free since 2017, when fees were ruled unlawful in R (Unison) v Lord Chancellor. ACAS early conciliation is mandatory and also free. Solicitor fees for a claimant in a straightforward unfair dismissal claim typically run £2,000–£5,000; full multi-day discrimination hearings can reach £20,000+. Employers usually spend significantly more on defence.
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Cost table
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Employment tribunal claim (claimant) FREE since 2017 | — |
ACAS early conciliation FREE & mandatory | — |
Claimant solicitor — straightforward case | £2,000–£5,000 |
Claimant solicitor — multi-day hearing | £5,000–£20,000 |
Settlement agreement review (employee) employer usually contributes | £500–£1,000 |
Employer defence — straightforward | £3,000–£8,000 |
Employer defence — full hearing | £8,000–£30,000 |
Barrister for hearing (per day) | £1,000–£3,500 |
Factors affecting cost
- ·Whether the claim is unfair dismissal, discrimination, whistleblowing or multiple causes of action.
- ·Number of witnesses and length of the hearing.
- ·Whether expert evidence (medical, occupational health) is required.
- ·Use of a barrister at hearing versus solicitor-advocate.
- ·Whether the case settles at preliminary hearing, ACAS, or proceeds to full hearing.
How to reduce costs
- ·Use ACAS early conciliation seriously — many cases settle for several months' salary with no solicitor cost.
- ·Check whether home or motor insurance includes Legal Expenses Insurance (LEI) — often covers ET fees.
- ·Trade unions provide free representation to members in tribunal cases.
- ·For settlement agreements, the employer is required to contribute to your solicitor fees (usually £350–£500).
- ·Consider Damages-Based Agreements (DBA) — solicitor takes a percentage of award, no win no fee.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to bring an employment tribunal claim?▾
Yes — since 2017. The Supreme Court ruled tribunal fees unlawful in R (Unison) v Lord Chancellor. ACAS early conciliation is mandatory and free.
What is the average unfair dismissal compensation in the UK?▾
For 2026 the statutory cap is £115,115 or 52 weeks' pay, whichever is lower. The median award is typically £7,000–£15,000; discrimination cases (uncapped) can reach six figures.
How long does an employment tribunal case take?▾
Typically 9–15 months from ACAS notification to final hearing in 2026. Complex discrimination claims often take 18+ months.
Does the loser pay the winner's costs?▾
Generally no — costs orders in tribunals are rare and only made where a party acted unreasonably or vexatiously. Each side normally bears their own costs.
Can I represent myself at an employment tribunal?▾
Yes — the tribunal is designed to be accessible. Free advice is available from Citizens Advice, ACAS, your union, or charity-run Free Representation Units.