Expert Legal Advice on Settlement Agreements

If you have been offered a Settlement Agreement by your employer, it is essential to understand your rights before signing. At Quebec Law Solicitors, we specialise in advising employees on the legal and financial implications of settlement agreements. Our goal is simple: to protect your interests and maximise the value of your exit package.

What Is a Settlement Agreement?

A settlement agreement (formerly known as a compromise agreement) is a legally binding contract between an employer and an employee, usually offered at the point of termination of employment. In return for a financial payment — or other agreed terms — the employee agrees not to pursue any legal claims against their employer, including those relating to unfair dismissal, redundancy, discrimination, or breach of contract.

These agreements are commonly used to avoid lengthy and costly legal proceedings. Employers often prefer to manage risk discreetly, while employees gain a clean financial settlement and closure. However, before such an agreement becomes legally binding, you must receive independent legal advice from a qualified solicitor — this is where we come in.

Why Settlement Agreements Are Offered

Settlement agreements are used in a range of workplace scenarios, including:

• Redundancy exercises and business restructuring
• Performance or capability concerns
• Disciplinary issues or grievances
• Breakdown of working relationships
• Discrimination, whistleblowing, or other legal risks

While settlement agreements can offer a dignified exit for all parties, they must be handled with care. Signing without legal advice could result in you waiving valuable claims — sometimes for far less than you are entitled to receive.

How We Help You Get the Best Deal

Strategic Legal Advice and Negotiation

At Quebec Law Solicitors, we go beyond simply explaining the legal terms — we take a strategic approach. Our experienced employment solicitors in Leeds will assess the circumstances leading to the offer, advise you on the fairness of the package, and determine whether it reflects the legal strength of any potential claims you may have.

If you are being undercompensated or offered terms that are unclear, we will negotiate directly with your employer or their legal representatives to improve your settlement. We approach all negotiations tactfully but firmly, drawing on years of experience in employment law and exit strategy.

Our Settlement Agreement Services Include:

• A full review of the draft agreement and its legal implications
• Advice on tax-free payments, notice pay, bonuses, and benefits
• Negotiation of improved financial terms, references, and confidentiality clauses
• Ensuring your contractual rights (such as accrued holiday or share schemes) are honoured
• Confirming that you are not waiving claims without proper compensation
• Fast turnaround — often within 24–48 hours, subject to urgency

In most cases, your employer will contribute to — or fully cover — the cost of legal advice. This means there is typically no charge to you for our review and advice service.

Why Choose Quebec Law Solicitors?

• Specialists in Employment Law: We act only for employees — never for employers — and we understand how to negotiate effectively on your behalf.
• Leeds-Based, National Reach: We advise clients across Yorkshire and beyond, combining regional insight with national-level expertise.
• Tailored Strategy: Every client receives personalised legal advice. We don’t just sign off — we add value.
• No Win No Fee Available: Where claims exist, we may be able to negotiate your settlement agreement under a No Win No Fee arrangement.

Common Clauses We Review and Negotiate

Settlement agreements often contain complex terms that require specialist attention. We routinely advise on:

• Tax treatment of ex gratia payments
• Mutual termination dates and notice pay arrangements
• Non-disparagement and confidentiality clauses
• Post-employment restrictions (such as non-compete terms)
• Outplacement support and agreed references

Our role is to ensure these clauses are clear, lawful, and do not place unnecessary restrictions on your future career.

When Should You Contact Us?

If you have been offered a settlement agreement — or suspect one may be forthcoming — you should contact us immediately. Time limits often apply, and early advice can significantly strengthen your position.

Whether you are leaving on agreed terms, feel you have been pushed out, or are navigating a contentious exit, we will guide you every step of the way — always acting in your best interests.

Get in Touch

For clear, prompt and strategic advice on your settlement agreement, speak to our experienced employment solicitors today.

Call: 0113 345 4114
Email: enquiries@quebeclaw.co.uk

Your future deserves careful handling — let us protect your position and ensure you exit on the best possible terms.