Employment

Employing staff within the agricultural industry is a complex business. Not only do employers have to comply with all employment related legislation emanating from the EU, but there is another raft of domestic rules, which apply specifically to agricultural workers. The effect of this double layer of legislation is that there are numerous pitfalls and penalties waiting to catch out the unaware.

In view of the particular complexities facing farming businesses, part of our employment team is dedicated to the agriculture industry. This ensures that we can give specialist employment advice, combined with an in depth understanding of the specific issues facing farming businesses.

Furthermore, where employment and property issues cross over (eg housing of agricultural workers), our employment lawyers are able to work seamlessly with agricultural property lawyers within our integrated agriculture team.

We offer a comprehensive employment service, providing advice to reduce the risk of claims arising and also dealing with contentious matters when they occur.  

Our services include:

• Tailoring employment policy and procedure within business handbooks
• Contracts of employment
• Housing of agricultural workers
• Agricultural Wages Order advice
• Immigration and work permits
• Termination of employment, including redundancy and unfair dismissal
• Compromise negotiations and agreements
• Advocacy at the Employment Tribunal, Employment Appeal Tribunal and higher courts

With the pressure of increased regulation and the rising cost to businesses in employing staff, we provide proactive commercial advice on how to avoid disputes and offer pragmatic solutions to help clients take the most cost effective decisions. If a compromise cannot be found, we have the skills required to represent clients in the Employment Tribunal, Employment Appeal Tribunal and higher courts if required.

For further details of our employment services, please visit the main Employment section of the site.

Contact: Kate Gardner