Individual and Collective Disputes and Criminal Employment Law

Employment disputes are rarely limited to the application of legal rules. They can have significant implications for an organisation’s financial position, operations, employee relations, reputation and transformation projects. Whether dealing with unfair dismissal claims, multiple claims arising from the same issue, collective disputes, election challenges, conflicts involving employee representatives, discrimination, harassment, working time issues or contract termination disputes, we assess each matter from every angle to develop a strategy aligned with the company’s objectives. 

We manage employment litigation from start to finish. From the outset, we assess legal exposure, secure evidence and evaluate procedural options. We help prepare negotiation strategies, initiate urgent proceedings where necessary and represent employers before employment, civil, administrative and criminal courts. Where settlement offers the best outcome, we define the appropriate timing, negotiation framework and implementation process. This enables HR, legal and executive teams to benefit from a consistent defence strategy, informed decision-making and practical guidance throughout the proceedings. 

Criminal proceedings involving a company, its directors or delegated managers require an immediate and carefully coordinated response. We assist clients in matters relating to health and safety at work, serious workplace accidents, undeclared work, unlawful labour arrangements, subcontracting issues, obstruction offences, harassment and discrimination. 

We also support employers during labour inspectorate investigations and inspections, as well as criminal investigations conducted by police, prosecutors or investigating judges, at stages where early decisions can significantly influence the outcome of proceedings. 

Our approach combines prevention and defence. We identify areas of exposure, review delegations of authority, strengthen internal procedures, prepare interviews and coordinate interactions with technical experts, insurers and public authorities. Working closely with management and operational teams, we help establish reliable decision-making processes, mitigate legal and operational consequences, and implement corrective measures while maintaining business continuity. 

We advise clients both before disputes arise, to strengthen compliance and reduce exposure, and during urgent situations requiring immediate decisions. Our methodology relies on rigorous fact-finding, thorough evidence analysis, realistic scenario planning and clear governance throughout the matter. 

This enables decision-makers to gain a structured view of risks, costs, timelines and available options, together with practical recommendations to support informed decisions and protect business operations. 

Our main areas of support : 

• Risk assessment and litigation strategy: assessing legal, financial, employee relations and reputational risks, prioritising issues and defining procedural strategy; 
• Employment litigation: handling individual employment claims, multiple claims arising from a common issue and collective disputes, including urgent proceedings; 
• Investigations and defence: assisting during inspections, investigations, interviews and expert assessments, and representing employers before employment, civil, administrative and criminal courts; 
• Negotiated settlements and alternative dispute resolution: negotiating settlement agreements and implementing alternative dispute resolution mechanisms where confidentiality, timing and costs serve the company’s interests; 
• Risk prevention and remediation: conducting targeted audits, reviewing delegations of authority, updating internal procedures and supporting corrective action plans tailored to operational needs. 

This approach provides decision-makers with the clarity needed to act at the right time, control the consequences of disputes and achieve sustainable compliance improvements.