Why You Need Legal Advice for a Settlement Agreement in Wigan

If you’re an employee in Wigan—whether in a busy warehouse on the industrial estate, a high-street retail store, or a local manufacturing plant—being handed a settlement agreement can feel like a shock. You might be facing redundancy at a Wigan factory, a workplace dispute in an office, or a company restructure. The legal jargon, uncertainty, and pressure to decide quickly can be overwhelming. At MBH Solicitors, we’ve helped Wigan workers navigate this process with clarity, confidence, and compassion. We’re your trusted local partner right here in Wigan.

In this article, we explain why independent legal advice for a settlement agreement isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s essential. We’ll break it down in plain English, showing why it matters for Wigan employees and how it protects your rights and future. Let’s get started.

What’s a Settlement Agreement, and Why Does It Need Legal Advice?

A settlement agreement is a legally binding contract between you and your employer to end your employment on agreed terms. It often arises during redundancies in Wigan’s logistics sector, disputes in retail, or restructuring in local industry. You receive a financial package; in return, you waive your right to bring claims like unfair dismissal or discrimination.

Under UK law, the agreement is not valid unless you’ve received independent legal advice from a qualified solicitor. Your employer must pay for this—typically £350 to £500 + VAT, or more for complex cases. This isn’t a box-ticking exercise—it’s your opportunity to ensure the deal is fair and works in your favour.

Here’s why this step is crucial for Wigan employees.

Reason 1: Making Sense of the Legal Jargon

Settlement agreements are full of complex terms like “ex-gratia payments,” “restrictive covenants,” and “without prejudice.” If you’re a warehouse operative, shop manager, or factory worker in Wigan, decoding legal documents isn’t part of your job.

A solicitor translates everything into plain English. They’ll explain whether your £30,000 tax-free payout is correctly structured or if a non-compete clause could stop you working locally. At MBH Solicitors, we’ve helped Wigan employees understand every line—so there are no nasty surprises later.

Without clarity, you risk signing away rights or accepting less than you deserve.

Reason 2: Checking If the Offer Is Fair

Not every settlement is a good deal. Your employer’s first offer might look generous—but is it?

A legal advisor compares it to your legal entitlements and what you could win at an employment tribunal. For example, if you’re being made redundant in Wigan:

• You’re entitled to statutory redundancy pay (based on age, service, and weekly pay—capped at £719/week in 2025).
• Plus notice pay and accrued holiday pay.
• A fair offer usually includes an ex-gratia payment (tax-free up to £30,000) as compensation.

We’ve seen Wigan workers in retail and logistics secure 3–6 months’ salary in ex-gratia payments. A solicitor spots gaps—like missing bonuses or pension contributions—and ensures you’re not short-changed.

Reason 3: Negotiating Better Terms

Here’s the truth: settlement agreements are negotiable. The first offer is rarely the final one.

Whether you’re in a Wigan warehouse or a local call centre, a skilled solicitor can push for:

• Higher compensation
• A stronger reference
• Looser restrictive covenants

For example, turning a 3-month payout into 6 months by highlighting long service, or reducing a 12-month non-compete to 6 months—so you can work locally sooner.

At MBH Solicitors, we handle the negotiation for you—with empathy and expertise—so you don’t have to face your employer alone.

Reason 4: Protecting Your Future Career

Many agreements include clauses that affect your next job—especially in Wigan’s tight-knit industries like logistics, manufacturing, and retail.

• Non-compete clauses: Could stop you joining a rival.
• Non-solicitation clauses:Limit contacting clients or colleagues.

A solicitor checks if these are reasonable and enforceable. A blanket UK-wide ban for a year? Likely void. A 6-month local restriction? More realistic.

We also secure positive or neutral references—crucial when Wigan employers know each other. A good reference opens doors; a weak one closes them.

Reason 5: Ensuring You’re Not Pressured or Misled

Employers may say “this is standard” or urge you to “sign today.” That pressure can cloud judgment—especially when your job is on the line.

Acas guidelines give you at least 10 days to consider the offer. A solicitor ensures:

• You’re not rushed
• The advice is truly independent (not from your employer’s preferred firm)
• You’re fully informed before deciding

At MBH Solicitors, we give Wigan workers space to think, ask questions, and make the right choice—without stress.

Reason 6: Avoiding Costly Mistakes

Signing waives your right to go to an employment tribunal—forever. If you’ve faced unfair treatment, discrimination, or constructive dismissal, a tribunal claim could be worth far more than the settlement.

A solicitor assesses:

• Is the payout fair compared to a tribunal award?
• Are you giving up strong claims for too little?

We’ve helped Wigan clients reject weak offers and negotiate thousands more—or walk away knowing they’re protected.

Why Choose MBH Solicitors in Wigan?

We’re not just solicitors—we’re your local allies. Based in the heart of Wigan, we understand the town’s job market, from industrial estates to retail parks. Here’s why Wigan employees trust us:

• Plain English Advice: No jargon, just clarity. 
• Empathy First: We know this is tough—and we listen. 
• Wigan Expertise: We know local employers, industries, and what’s fair.
• Proven Results: Better payouts, references, and terms for Wigan workers.

Call MBH Solicitors today on 01942 206060 or book a free consultation online.

Final Thoughts: Take Control with Confidence

A settlement agreement is a turning point—but you don’t have to face it alone. Independent legal advice is your safety net. It ensures you understand the deal, get what you deserve, and protect your future in Wigan’s resilient job market.

Don’t sign until you’ve spoken to a specialist. Contact MBH Solicitors today at 01942 206060 or visit https://www.wigansolicitors.com/contact-us/. We’ll review your agreement for free and fight for the outcome you deserve.

Contact MBH Solicitors in Wigan now:

📩 mbh@wigansolicitors.com
📞 01942 206060