Episode 18: Unfair Dismissal and Probation

Your Settlement Agreement Solicitor

In Episode 18 of Your Settlement Agreement Solicitor, host Geoffrey Caesar dives into the critical differences between probation periods and the two-year qualifying period for unfair dismissal rights, clarifying a widespread misconception around these terms.

With Labour’s new Employment Rights Bill stirring debate, many are confusing the two-year qualifying period for unfair dismissal protection with probation periods. Geoffrey explains how, under current legislation, these are distinct: probation is purely a contractual matter, while unfair dismissal rights apply only after two years of continuous employment—until the new Bill takes effect.

Geoffrey explores how unfair dismissal protections are structured under the Employment Rights Act 1996, why settlement agreements often become an attractive solution for employers, and what changes the new Bill will bring. If enacted, the Bill will repeal the two-year qualifying period, likely leading to a rise in settlement agreements, especially during an employee’s “initial period.”

Whether you’re nearing the two-year mark at work or navigating employment challenges, this episode offers invaluable insight into your rights and how they influence fair settlements.