If you’ve been offered a settlement agreement, you may be wondering how long the process will take from start to finish. The time frame varies depending on the complexity of your situation, but most straightforward agreements can be completed within a few days to two weeks.

Initial Review and Legal Advice

Once you receive a draft settlement agreement, arrange legal advice with an employment solicitor as soon as possible. The solicitor will review the document, explain its terms, and assess whether the offer fairly reflects your legal entitlements. If you can promptly provide any information your solicitor needs, this stage can often be completed within one to two days.

Negotiations

If your solicitor identifies areas where the terms could beimproved, such as increasing compensation, amending restrictive covenants, or clarifying confidentiality clauses, they will negotiate with your employer on your behalf. The length of negotiations depends on how responsive both sides are. Some employers reply quickly, while others, particularly large organisations with multiple decision-makers or HR teams, may take longer. Negotiations can add several days or, in more complex cases, a week or more to the process.

Signing the Agreement

Once both parties agree on the terms, the settlement agreement can usually be signed and finalised quickly. Employers often seek to complete settlement agreements promptly to resolve disputes, minimise uncertainty, and avoid potential claims.

Urgent Cases‍

In urgent situations, for example, if your employment isending imminently, a straightforward settlement agreement can sometimes bereviewed, negotiated, and signed within 24 to 48 hours. However, allowing at least a few days is preferable, giving you the time to understand the terms, seekmadvice, and make informed decisions.

Typical Timeframes

As a general guide:

  • Straightforward cases (where you’re happy with the initial offer and there’s no need for negotiation) can often be completed in three to seven days from     receiving the draft agreement.
  • More complex cases (involving disputes, detailed negotiations, or multiple issues) may take one to two weeks or longer.

While settlement agreements can sometimes be completed very quickly, taking the time to consider the terms carefully with the support of a qualified solicitor helps ensure the agreement is fair, legally sound, and in your best interests.

For more information, contact us on 01524 907100, info@pre-law.co.uk or through our online enquiry form‍

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