Employment law governs the relationship between workers and employers. It ensures fair treatment, safety, and legal protection in every type of workplace. In Skelmersdale, where many residents work in retail, logistics, and healthcare, knowing your rights is essential for navigating day-to-day working life and preventing disputes.
Whether you’re an employee concerned about unpaid wages or an employer managing disciplinary issues, Marley Solicitors can help. Our employment law team offers local, trusted legal guidance and no win, no fee options on qualifying claims.
What does employment law cover?
Employment law is a broad area of UK legislation designed to protect both employees and employers. It covers key rights and responsibilities including:
- Minimum wage and statutory sick pay
- Working time regulations and rest breaks
- Paid holiday entitlement
- Protection from unfair dismissal
- Equal pay and anti-discrimination laws
- Health and safety obligations
These laws apply to most workers in Skelmersdale, whether in full-time, part-time, agency, or zero-hour roles.
Can I get help with a workplace dispute in Skelmersdale?
Yes. Marley Solicitors regularly supports Skelmersdale workers and businesses with:
- Unfair dismissal claims
- Redundancy and settlement advice
- Workplace discrimination cases
- Misconduct and grievance resolution
- Contract disputes and wage claims
Our legal team is experienced in resolving both straightforward and complex issues, offering clear advice and practical solutions.
Common employment law issues we handle
- Employment contracts and terms
Employees should receive a written statement of key terms within two months of starting work. This includes:
- Pay, hours, and duties
- Holiday and sick pay
- Notice periods
- Disciplinary procedures
We help employees understand their contracts and advise employers on drafting legally sound agreements. In Skelmersdale’s warehousing and retail sectors, zero-hour contracts are common; we can help review their fairness.
- Unfair dismissal and redundancy
You may be able to claim for unfair dismissal if you:
- Have worked for more than two years
- Were dismissed without a fair reason
- Were not given proper warning or procedure.
We also support employers in Skelmersdale in managing redundancy fairly and lawfully. For businesses restructuring post-pandemic, we offer support drafting proper consultation plans.
- Discrimination and workplace harassment
The Equality Act 2010 protects employees from discrimination based on:
- Age
- Disability
- Race
- Religion or belief
- Sex or sexual orientation
- Gender reassignment
- Pregnancy or maternity
We help employees bring claims and employers prevent costly legal action through better policies and training. In multi-sector towns like Skelmersdale, we’ve handled claims from workers in NHS support roles, logistics, and call centres.
- Wage disputes and holiday pay
If you’ve been underpaid or denied proper rest breaks or holiday entitlement, you may be able to claim. We assist workers in recovering unpaid wages and support employers with compliance.
We also help workers understand their entitlement to rolled-up holiday pay and support enforcement where wages fall below the National Minimum Wage.
- Flexible working and family rights
Employees have the right to request flexible working and are protected when taking maternity, paternity, or parental leave. We help enforce these rights or advise on fair refusal grounds.
Flexible working is increasingly requested by workers with care responsibilities or post-COVID adjustments. Marley Solicitors helps both sides navigate these changes lawfully.
Additional employment protections
Other important protections we assist with include:
- TUPE transfers (when a business changes ownership)
- Protection for whistleblowers under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998
- Claims involving breach of contract or constructive dismissal
- Trade union rights and collective consultation duties
Skelmersdale businesses undergoing restructuring or merger may have specific legal obligations under TUPE, which we help address.
FAQs about employment law in Skelmersdale
What can I do if I’ve been dismissed unfairly?
If you believe your dismissal was unfair, contact us immediately. You must act within three months (less one day) from the date your employment ended to begin a tribunal claim.
How much can I claim for unfair dismissal?
Compensation varies, but you may be entitled to:
- A basic award based on your age and years of service
- A compensatory award for lost earnings and benefits
We’ll calculate a fair figure based on your case.
What if my employer has no written contract for me?
You are still protected under employment law even without a formal contract. Your working arrangement and pay history can establish your rights.
Can I be made redundant while on maternity leave?
Redundancy while on maternity leave is only lawful if there is a genuine business reason and fair selection process. You may also have enhanced rights to be offered suitable alternative employment.
Why choose Marley Solicitors in Skelmersdale?
We have supported workers and small business owners in Skelmersdale with practical, no-nonsense legal advice. Our local knowledge and personal approach mean we:
- Understand the job market and industries in the area
- Offer same-day consultation options
- Provide no win, no fee services where eligible
- Assist with ACAS early conciliation and tribunal representation
Our solicitors work with employers to improve HR practices, avoid legal pitfalls, and ensure a fair workplace culture. We also support employees with:
- Free initial consultations
- Settlement agreement reviews
- Tribunal claim preparation and representation
Speak to a Skelmersdale employment law solicitor today
If you’re facing a workplace issue in Skelmersdale or want to avoid future disputes, get in touch with Marley Solicitors. We offer free initial consultations, and our legal team is ready to support you with your next steps.
Call today or visit our local office to book your free, no-obligation appointment.
