Employment Tribunal: A Step-by-Step Guide for Self-Representation

Before You Start

Employment tribunal claims must normally be brought within 3 months minus 1 day of the act complained of. Before issuing a claim, you must contact ACAS for Early Conciliation.

Step 1: ACAS Early Conciliation

Contact ACAS on 0300 123 1100 or via their website. ACAS will attempt to resolve the dispute. This is mandatory — you cannot issue a tribunal claim without an ACAS certificate.

Step 2: Complete the ET1 Form

The ET1 is your claim form. Include:

Your personal details and your employer's details

The type of claim (unfair dismissal, discrimination, unpaid wages, etc.)

A clear narrative of what happened

The remedy you seek

Step 3: Response (ET3)

Your employer has 28 days to respond with an ET3 form.

Step 4: Case Management

The tribunal may hold a preliminary hearing to manage the case, identify the issues, and set a timetable for disclosure and witness statements.

Step 5: Disclosure

Both sides must disclose relevant documents. This includes documents that support your case AND documents that undermine it.

Step 6: Witness Statements

You must prepare written witness statements that stand as your evidence in chief. These should be detailed, factual, and organised chronologically.

Step 7: The Hearing

Arrive early, dress professionally, and bring:

Your bundle of documents (agreed with the respondent if possible)

Witness statements

A chronology

A list of issues

Any legal authorities you rely on

Tips for Success

Be concise and focus on the relevant facts

Address the legal test for your claim

Don't be emotional — stick to the evidence

Prepare for cross-examination

Use Serverity to organise your documents and prepare your case