What happens after et1 lodged? Don't understand can someone explain simply pls?

[Teenytinee]

So I've understood when et1 lodged ,employer has 28 days to respond but what happens after that I.e. What does employee have to do even if a solicitor is used? What is employer doing in background?

Also why do some employment cases take 1-2 years to be heard and run into thousands and thousands of pounds.

Really sorry if these sound like silly questions.

I've looked on the Internet for answers with no luck.

The Employer will respond and providing there is a potential case to answer, a court hearing will be arranged. The ET will let you know what you need to do and when - they are used to claimants representing themselves, so they are sympathetic in that way.

The process normally involves both the employer and employee agreeing which documents to submit to the ET which will be used as evidence, plus you both can call witnesses and will have the opportunity to ask the witnesses questions.

Cases are being heard a lot quicker since court fees were introduced in the last year or so, as the number of cases has dropped significantly.

I'm not a lawyer, I'm a hr person, so my post is very basic in terms of process.

Chanie44

Thanks that's really helpful.

In your experience, how long do cases take now?

Also are documents agreed with employer to be submitted at start, middle or near end of tribunal?

Not sure, but I would guess up to 6 months as there are certain things that need to be done by certain dates.

In terms of the documents, these are submitted in advance of the hearing, so at the hearing, the focus will be on assessing the evidence - it's not like on TV, where the characters are running in with bits of info just before the judge makes a decision!!

It's known as 'the bundle' and normally contains the et1 and et3 (the employers response), policies, letters, emails etc).

You will also both need to prove witness statements separately and hand them over in advance of the hearing.

Thanks for info. Unfortunately I have that image in my head (people rushing with last minute info) from watching court dramas but I guessed it's not like that in reality.