The Ministry of Justice has information on its website about the Government’s plans to lower the £84 million cost to the taxpayer, and relieve pressure on businesses, through the introduction of fees for employment tribunals.

The consultation will put forward two options for consideration: 

Option 1: an initial fee of between £150-£250 for a claimant to begin a claim, with an additional fee of between £250-£1250 if the claim goes to a hearing, with no limit to the maximum award; or 

Option 2: a single fee of between £200-£600 – but this would limit the maximum award to £30,000 – with the option of an additional fee of £1,750 for those who seek awards above this amount. 

In both options the tribunal would be given the power to order the unsuccessful party to reimburse fees paid by the successful party. 

If you want to contribute to the consultation then please visit the Ministry of Justice website as it is only by small Employers taking the time to comment that valid points can be considered.

The consultation will close in March 2012.