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Collective disputes & industrial action

Collective disputes & industrial action

When your trade union is faced with the complexities of collective disputes or the challenges of industrial action, the last thing you want is uncertainty about your legal position. At Anthony Gold, our experienced solicitors are here to help you navigate these turbulent times with confidence, ensuring that both your union and its members are fully protected.

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How we support trade unions on collective disputes & industrial action

Balloting & notice process

Getting the balloting and notice process right is crucial for trade unions. The statutory requirements surrounding industrial action have become increasingly complex and demanding. Missing a step or making a minor error in the process could expose your union to legal challenges or jeopardise the protection of your members.

At Anthony Gold, we provide expert guidance to ensure every aspect of your ballot complies with the law. Whether it’s advising on the correct procedures for notifying your members and employers, or helping you draft legally sound ballot papers, our employment law solicitors will work closely with you to ensure that your industrial action is lawful, and your union remains protected.

We help with:

Compliance with trade union laws

We ensure your union fully complies with the Trade Union Act 2016 and other relevant legislation. From understanding strike ballot thresholds to following legal processes during industrial action, we help you navigate complex legal requirements and avoid challenges.

Drafting ballot papers

Our team drafts and reviews ballot papers to prevent any legal loopholes that employers could exploit. We carefully word the documents to ensure they meet legal standards and avoid any errors that could invalidate the ballot.

Notifying employers & members

We advise unions on how to properly notify employers and members in line with statutory deadlines. Whether it’s for strike ballots or industrial action, we ensure the correct procedures are followed to keep your union compliant with the law.

Monitoring the ballot process

We provide oversight and guidance throughout the balloting process to ensure compliance and minimise the risk of legal challenges. From ballot distribution to counting votes, we help your union avoid any issues that could disrupt your action.

With our help, you can confidently organise industrial action knowing that all statutory requirements have been met, protecting both the union and its members.

Injunctions & legal proceedings

When employers challenge your union through injunctions or other legal proceedings, you need fast, reliable legal support. Employers may attempt to halt industrial action by claiming procedural errors or non-compliance with the law, putting the entire action at risk. In these situations, it’s essential to have expert representation to defend your union’s right to take action.

At Anthony Gold, we have a proven track record of successfully representing unions in disputes with employers. If your union is threatened with an injunction, we will act swiftly to defend your position, ensuring that any legal threats are properly addressed. Our team is experienced in managing the complexities of court proceedings and will stand by your side to protect your union’s interests.

Our services include:

Defending against injunctions

Employers often seek injunctions to stop industrial action. Our team is experienced in defending unions against such applications, ensuring your right to strike or take action is upheld. We present strong legal arguments to challenge the validity of injunctions, allowing your union to proceed without unlawful interference.

Court representation for your union

If employers initiate legal proceedings against your union, we provide expert representation in court. Our solicitors have extensive experience defending unions in a range of legal settings, ensuring that your union’s rights are protected and any claims by employers are properly challenged.

Advice on injunction risks

We offer proactive advice to help unions avoid the risk of injunctions during industrial action. This includes ensuring legal compliance in areas like strike ballots and notice procedures, helping you steer clear of common legal pitfalls employers may exploit.

Strategic support to prevent disruption

To minimise disruption to your action, we provide strategic advice throughout the process. By anticipating legal challenges and preparing accordingly, we help your union maintain momentum and protect your members from unnecessary setbacks.

By working with us, you ensure that your union’s rights are upheld and that you have the best possible defence against legal challenges from employers.

Words from our clients

From start to finish Aneil Balgobin was fantastic in helping me navigate an agreement, he was methodical and made the whole experience a lot less stressful than I felt it would be when initiated. All of the negotiations were handled by him directly and I am really pleased with the result. Thanks again for your support through a difficult time.

Our Client

I could not rate this firm more highly. They are attentive, efficient and always patient with us and our business needs. Happy to accommodate wherever possible and just a general pleasure to deal with. I would specifically like to thank Inbar Rabinovitz who has gone above and beyond at every given opportunity and whom our business would be lost with out! We could not rate her enough!!!

Our Client

Joy Drummond is friendly and professional and I can’t recommend her enough. Speedy communication and her expert advice was invaluable. Thanks Joy!

Julie Sharp

I want to highlight the great work of Aneil Balgobin from Anthony Gold Solicitors: I sent out an email with an inquiry and got a very prompt response. We had an initial call afternoon that same day and I am very happy with the consultation provided by Aneil, very considerate to individual circumstances, everything was explained to me very clear and the outcome of our work was very positive. I can sincerely recommend Anthony Gold as a company and Aneil Balgobin I personally.

Tatiana Zakharchenko

Why should Anthony Gold Solicitors advise my trade union on collective disputes & industrial action?

Experienced employment law solicitors

At Anthony Gold, our team of employment law solicitors brings decades of experience in trade union and industrial relations. We have handled complex legal issues, including unfair dismissal, discrimination claims, and collective agreements. Our track record in representing trade unions and their members in various disputes reflects our commitment to protecting workers’ rights.

One of our leading solicitors, Joy Drummond, is a well-known advocate for trade unions and their members. With her deep knowledge of employment law and passion for defending workers’ rights, she is highly regarded in the field. Joy’s dedication ensures that unions and their members get the best possible representation, whether in negotiations or complex legal proceedings.

Industry recognition

Our work at Anthony Gold is recognised by top legal directories such as Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners. These endorsements highlight not only our legal expertise but also our dedication to securing outstanding results for trade unions and their members.

Tailored legal support for unions

We understand that every trade union has its own unique challenges. That’s why we provide personalised legal advice to meet your specific needs. Whether it’s navigating collective bargaining, handling disputes, or representing unions in tribunals, we are with you at every step to ensure you receive the expert support you deserve.

Speak to a member of the Employment team

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Meet the team

Meet our team of solicitors who are experts in their field.

Head of Department
Aneil Balgobin

Head of Department

Partner
Joy Drummond

Partner

Senior Associate
Inbar Rabinovitz

Senior Associate

Lawyer
Chloe Harris

Lawyer

Trainee
Aryan Gupta

Trainee

Paralegal
Hinna Raja

Paralegal

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Collective disputes & industrial action: FAQs

  • What legal steps must a union take before organising industrial action in the UK?

  • What is the balloting process for industrial action, and how can we avoid legal challenges?

  • What are the risks if an employer challenges our industrial action with an injunction?

  • Can Anthony Gold Solicitors represent us in court if an employer brings legal proceedings against the union?

  • What happens if our union makes an error during the notice process for industrial action?

What legal steps must a union take before organising industrial action in the UK?

Before organising industrial action, unions must follow key legal steps, including conducting a lawful ballot, notifying the employer of the ballot, securing majority support, and providing 14 days’ notice of the action. Failure to comply can lead to legal challenges or dismissal risks for members. We ensure all steps are followed to protect your union.

What is the balloting process for industrial action, and how can we avoid legal challenges?

The balloting process requires secret voting by affected members, with clear information on the dispute and action. The employer must be notified of the results and intended action. Errors in this process may lead to legal challenges. Anthony Gold Solicitors ensure your ballot meets all legal requirements, reducing the risk of disputes.

What are the risks if an employer challenges our industrial action with an injunction?

An employer can seek an injunction to halt industrial action, usually due to procedural errors or non-compliance with legal requirements. If successful, this could stop the action and lead to further costs. We have extensive experience defending unions against injunctions to keep your action on track.

Can Anthony Gold Solicitors represent us in court if an employer brings legal proceedings against the union?

Yes, Anthony Gold has a skilled team to represent your union in court if legal proceedings are initiated by an employer. Our employment law experts specialise in defending against injunctions and other legal challenges, ensuring your union’s rights are fully protected.

What happens if our union makes an error during the notice process for industrial action?

Errors in the notice process can result in an employer challenging the action or seeking an injunction. This could halt the action and expose the union to damages. Anthony Gold Solicitors ensure your notice process complies with the law, minimising the risk of legal issues and safeguarding your members.

What legal steps must a union take before organising industrial action in the UK?

Before organising industrial action, unions must follow key legal steps, including conducting a lawful ballot, notifying the employer of the ballot, securing majority support, and providing 14 days’ notice of the action. Failure to comply can lead to legal challenges or dismissal risks for members. We ensure all steps are followed to protect your union.

What is the balloting process for industrial action, and how can we avoid legal challenges?

The balloting process requires secret voting by affected members, with clear information on the dispute and action. The employer must be notified of the results and intended action. Errors in this process may lead to legal challenges. Anthony Gold Solicitors ensure your ballot meets all legal requirements, reducing the risk of disputes.

What are the risks if an employer challenges our industrial action with an injunction?

An employer can seek an injunction to halt industrial action, usually due to procedural errors or non-compliance with legal requirements. If successful, this could stop the action and lead to further costs. We have extensive experience defending unions against injunctions to keep your action on track.

Can Anthony Gold Solicitors represent us in court if an employer brings legal proceedings against the union?

Yes, Anthony Gold has a skilled team to represent your union in court if legal proceedings are initiated by an employer. Our employment law experts specialise in defending against injunctions and other legal challenges, ensuring your union’s rights are fully protected.

What happens if our union makes an error during the notice process for industrial action?

Errors in the notice process can result in an employer challenging the action or seeking an injunction. This could halt the action and expose the union to damages. Anthony Gold Solicitors ensure your notice process complies with the law, minimising the risk of legal issues and safeguarding your members.

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