NHS MARS Schemes
Independent Advice on NHS MARS Agreements
We provide fixed-fee legal advice to NHS employees and employers on Mutually Agreed Resignation Scheme (MARS) agreements. Our solicitor assists with reviewing, negotiating and preparing MARS settlement agreements, helping you understand your legal position and the implications of a voluntary exit arrangement.
A MARS agreement allows employment to end by mutual consent, usually in return for an agreed financial package. We review the proposed terms, explain your employment rights and assess the potential implications for your pension, future employment and financial circumstances.
Independent legal advice from a solicitor is generally required for a MARS settlement agreement to meet the statutory requirements for waiving certain employment claims. We examine the agreement, explain your obligations and ensure you understand the commitments involved before signing.
For NHS employers, we assist with preparing MARS agreements that reflect the agreed terms, comply with relevant legal requirements and support the voluntary exit process.
MARS Settlements
Supporting You Through the MARS Process
MARS agreements can involve important financial and contractual considerations. We review compensation payments, notice entitlements, pension provisions, confidentiality clauses, restrictive covenants, references and other terms that may affect your future.
Where appropriate, we assist with negotiating improvements to proposed settlement terms, including financial compensation and contractual provisions, before an agreement is finalised.
We also advise on the general tax treatment of termination payments, potential implications for employment benefits and the differences between voluntary exit arrangements and statutory redundancy.
From reviewing your MARS agreement to completing the legal adviser’s certificate, we provide personal legal support throughout the process, with transparent fixed fees and a straightforward approach.