How big an award will I get if I win my case?

For discrimination claims, there is no upper limit and the compensation normally includes an element to cover hurt to feelings.

For unfair dismissal the upper limit is £56,800. For wrongful dismissal (and other breach of contract) claims in the tribunals, it is £25,000. These are upper limits however, and usually compensation awarded is well below these levels.

Compensation for unfair dismissal also includes an element to compensate for loss of earnings for the time between the dismissal and the tribunal decision. If you have got a new job, this element will be reduced to take account of what you are being paid. The compensation will also reflect other losses, such as loss of pension rights.

There is an upper limit on the compensation for loss of earnings, which is updated annually in line with the Retail Price Index. It is currently set at £280 a week.

Employers can be made to pay more compensation if they failed to let you use standard minimum statutory disciplinary procedures. Similarly, your compensation can be reduced if you refused to use one.