Employment tribunal first steps: deadlines, ACAS and preparation

Check time limits promptly

Employment tribunal claims can have short time limits. The relevant limit and any effect of early conciliation depend on the claim. Contact ACAS or a qualified adviser promptly; do not use a directory's average waiting time to decide how long you have to act.

Read the official claim or response route

GOV.UK explains the claim process and the ACAS early conciliation starting point. If you have received a claim, use the response instructions and deadline provided. The claim and response processes are different, and some matters have special rules or exceptions.

Gather information and arrange support

• Dates of the events and any decision or dismissal letter.
• Employment terms, relevant correspondence and other records.
• Any ACAS reference or correspondence already received.
• The tribunal notice and current directions if proceedings have started.
• Information about access or communication support you need.

Use statistics with the right scope

National employment tribunal figures cover Great Britain. They include different types of claims and are not a forecast for one hearing centre or case. A firm reporting employment work should still confirm that the particular office can assist with your matter and deadline.

Related information

• National tribunal statistics
• Find employment solicitors by location