How long do I have to make an employment claim in Northern Ireland?

There are time limits when claiming against an employer

Many individuals, unaware of the limitation periods, often miss the opportunity to seek justice for their grievances. This article aims to shed light on the timeframe within which one can make an employment claim in Northern Ireland.

Time limits for employment claims

In Northern Ireland, most tribunal claims related to employment must be made within three months of the incident. However, this can vary and is subject to the early conciliation process. It’s essential to note that tribunals will only extend this time limit in exceptional circumstances. If you’re uncertain about a time limit, it’s advisable to seek independent help.

The early conciliation process

Before lodging a claim with the Industrial or Fair Employment Tribunal, potential claimants must first notify the Labour Relations Agency and discuss the option of Early Conciliation. This step is mandatory, and one cannot proceed to the tribunal without at least considering this option.

If Early Conciliation doesn’t lead to a settlement, the Labour Relations Agency will issue an Early Conciliation Certificate. This certificate number is required to proceed with a tribunal claim.

Why is there a time limit on employment claims?

Time limits are in place to ensure that claims are made while evidence is still fresh and relevant. As time passes, memories can fade and gathering evidence becomes more challenging. Therefore, it’s in the best interest of all parties involved to address the issue promptly.

It is also unreasonable to hold the threat of litigation over the head of an employer in perpetuity.

Common reasons for delays in making a claim

We have been given several reasons for individuals allowing the time limit to run out that would not meet the requirements for an exception from the Tribunal.

Some examples include:

• The person did not know that they were entitled to claim. It’s important to know your rights.
• They underestimated their chances of having a viable claim until a friend or relative convinced them otherwise. You should always seek independent legal advice from a qualified solicitor as soon as possible.
• They thought there was an unlimited amount of time to claim.
• They intended to claim but continuously put it off because they were busy until they ran out of time. We are experts at claiming for employment-related matters and we have refined our services over many years to make them convenient, accessible and stress-free. You would be surprised how easy it is to claim using McCartan Turkington Breen Solicitors.

Taking the next steps

If you believe you have a valid employment claim:

• Do not delay or you risk running out of time.
• Consult with professionals such as your trade union, Advice NI, the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland or a law firm such as McCartan Turkington Breen.
• Ensure you have the necessary Early Conciliation certificate number and submit your claim within the stipulated time frame.

Navigating the complexities of employment claims can be daunting, but understanding the time limits is the first step towards ensuring your rights are protected. If you believe you’ve been wronged in the workplace, don’t let time slip away.

We are employment law experts

At McCartan Turkington Breen, we offer free initial consultations with seasoned employment law experts who can evaluate the merits of your claim swiftly. Even if you’re uncertain, it’s always worth seeking advice. Discover more about our services at Employment Law Claims or Contact Us directly for a consultation.