What Does an Employment Tribunal Representative Do?

An employment tribunal representative is someone who acts on your behalf during an employment tribunal case. They may be a solicitor, but they could also be a specialist worker from a trade union or other public body. They will be familiar with the process of bringing a tribunal claim and will be experienced in presenting evidence, cross examining witnesses and dealing with any legal points or arguments at the hearing.

A representative can help you with the following stages of an employment tribunal claim:

Preparation:They will complete all the relevant forms, collate evidence and prepare bundles of documents. They can also assist with identifying witnesses and preparing their statements. Presentation:They will attend the tribunal hearing with you and state your case on your behalf at the hearing. This will include referring to your bundle of documents and answering questions about the details of your case. It will also include addressing any issues raised in the other parties' witness statements.

At a full hearing, you will sit on separate tables facing the employment judge and any panel members (collectively called the panel). Each side will call their witnesses and can ask them questions. The employer or their representative might also ask you questions – this is called cross-examination. After you have given all your evidence, the panel will discuss the case before giving their final decision or Judgment. This might be on the day or it might take longer if the case is more complex.   employment tribunal representative