A Swansea law firm has promoted a specialist employment lawyer to head up a new service, which will safeguard businesses from the high cost of legal action from employees.
Aaron Hayward, 27, will be responsible for a new employment protection scheme introduced to protect businesses against the impact of claims brought by current or former employees.
According to the UK Government, between April 2011 and March 2012 there were 186,300 Employment Tribunal cases in the UK, at an average cost of £3,900 to employers and £1,900 to the taxpayer.
With legal representation also costing several thousands of pounds, Douglas-Jones Mercer (DJM) Solicitors has initiated the new scheme to protect businesses from potential disputes that could cost thousands and cause severe cash flow problems.
As part of the scheme, Mr Hayward, who is originally from Pembrokeshire and has experience previously working for established national firms such as DWF and Berrymans Lace Mawer, will conduct a thorough audit of all current policies and practices, to bring organisations up to date with latest legislation.
The specialist solicitor and his team will also be contactable via a dedicated helpline that will provide advice to businesses on any human resource issues or specialist employment law matters.
In addition, he will work with employers to provide a tailored insurance policy that covers the legal costs of employment disputes, any settlements and the cost of awards.
Michael Snowdon, Director at Douglas-Jones Mercer Solicitors, said:
“We are thrilled to appoint Aaron as head of this important scheme, created so businesses feel safe in the knowledge that they are protected against unexpected legal costs.
“Many businesses – especially small to medium ones – lack the resources to safeguard themselves by employing full-time specialist HR staff. Now, with the introduction of this scheme, businesses can feel able to personally contact specialist lawyers, such as Aaron, and protect themselves from claims without having to worry about spiraling costs.”
Aaron Hayward said:
“I am delighted to join the developing and growing employment team here at DJM Solicitors.
“I am also excited to be at the forefront of a scheme that will really support companies of all sizes, ensuring they are protected from expensive employment tribunal cases that could be very detrimental to their business.”