Appealing a written warning: Is this ever a bad idea?

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Someone I know has received a written warning at work. I do not know all of the particulars of what happened, but this person does feel that the sanction was unfair.

The HR department recommended a harsher sanction than the one received. This person is therefore reluctant to appeal. Does the principle that punishments cannot be increased on appeal apply here? Is there ever any good reason not to appeal?

Thanks for your help.

I can't think of a reason not to appeal either. Presumably the appeal would go to the manager one level above your friend's line manager. What is their relationship with that person like and are they aware of this situation?

What is the nature of the issue they received the warning for?

It seems unlikely that the sanction would be reduced if it's already lower than recommended, but that doesn't mean don't appeal if your colleague feels strongly. Technically the sanction could be increased, but that is unusual.

Hi

Also check the disciplinary policy. A sanction can only be increased on appeal if the disciplinary procedure expressly permit this.

According to the ACAS guidance IIRC you shouldn't increase a sanction on appeal. Personally I would never advise to do this.

It's unusual as I say, and if it's in the policy they can do it. Unlikely though.

Thank you all for your help.

The disciplinary procedure was initiated because the person didn't do something they should have done but also because of something that person's team didn't do when they were on leave. This is what is felt to be unfair.

I will have them check the disciplinary policy. I suspect you are right about it the sanction being unlikely to be reduced, unfortunately.