Independent legal advice for a settlement agreement (UK)
Why independent legal advice is required for many settlement agreements, what to bring, and how adviser certificates work.
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Why it is required
For many settlement agreements, the law requires you to receive advice from a relevant independent adviser—commonly a solicitor or certified trade union adviser—on the terms and effect of the agreement. Your employer usually contributes to legal fees, subject to what they offer in the letter or draft.
What to bring
Provide your contract, recent payslips, the draft agreement, any correspondence about dismissal or redundancy, and notes on concerns such as discrimination or whistleblowing. The clearer your timeline, the better your adviser can assess risk.
Outcome of the meeting
Your adviser explains whether signing is in your interests and may suggest changes. They will usually sign an adviser certificate required by the employer. You remain responsible for your decision to sign.
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