Can I negotiate restrictive covenants in my settlement agreement?
Key Takeaways Yes, you can negotiate restrictive covenants in your settlement agreement before signing to limit their impact on future employment and business opportunities. Restrictive covenants such as non-compete or non-solicitation clauses are not set in stone and can often be narrowed, removed or clarified through negotiation. Our solicitors can advise on the enforceability of […]
Garden leave: employee rights, pay, and settlement agreement strategy
Key Takeaways Garden leave means you stay employed and on full pay during your notice period but usually cannot start another job or contact clients. You are entitled to your normal salary, benefits, and holiday accrual throughout garden leave in the UK, including rights to a tax-free element of redundancy pay if eligible. Employers can […]
Whistleblowing settlement agreements 2026: how protected disclosure claims impact compensation and the ILA certificate requirements
Key Takeaways Whistleblowing settlement agreements 2026: how protected disclosure claims impact compensation and the ILA certificate requirements is highly relevant, as whistleblowing can substantially increase your compensation and change settlement terms. A protected disclosure (whistleblowing) means you may be entitled to uncapped damages and special protection under the Employment Rights Act 1996 if dismissed or […]
Restrictive covenants in 2026 settlement agreements: how non-compete clauses affect UK employees leaving tech and finance roles
Key Takeaways Restrictive covenants in 2026 settlement agreements, especially non-compete clauses, can limit your ability to work for competitors after leaving a tech or finance role. Non-compete clauses must be reasonable in duration, area, and scope to be enforceable; Employment Rights Act 2025 may further restrict overbroad covenants. Settlement agreements with restrictive covenants can override […]
Same-day settlement agreement advice: why 24-hour independent legal advice certification protects employees under urgent exit deadlines
Key Takeaways Same-day settlement agreement advice ensures you do not miss urgent exit deadlines or risk losing financial compensation offered by your employer. A settlement agreement is only legally binding if you receive independent legal advice from a qualified SRA regulated solicitor, as required by the Employment Rights Act 1996. Our solicitors can deliver 24-hour […]
Settlement agreement tax: how the £30,000 threshold applies to redundancy and exit payments in 2026
Key Takeaways The £30,000 tax-free threshold for settlement payments applies in 2026 UK redundancy and exit deals, covering most statutory and ex gratia payments made on termination of employment. Any redundancy or settlement payment over £30,000 will be taxed under PAYE, and your employer must also pay Class 1A National Insurance Contributions on the excess. […]
