MRS HD SMITH v Globalgrange Ltd Preliminary Hearing — 2019

This was a preliminary hearing at London Central before Employment Judge Oliver Segal Q.C. The respondent conceded the claimant's unfair dismissal claim shortly before the hearing, and the judgment records that the claimant succeeded in that claim by consent. The parties had also made open offers and counter-offers in settlement discussions, and the claimant had indicated that she was seeking costs up to a maximum of £20,000 in respect of alleged unreasonable conduct, but no costs decision was made at this hearing.

The tribunal did not hear evidence on liability because the parties wished to continue settlement discussions, and the judge allowed time for that purpose. By late afternoon the parties reported that they had not been able to agree the wording of a settlement agreement, so the proceedings were adjourned. The claimant's wrongful dismissal claim, and remedy in respect of both the unfair dismissal claim and any wrongful dismissal claim, were adjourned to be heard by a different judge.

The judgment also records that there was no implied criticism of either party or their representatives in the way the day progressed, and states that both counsel provided expert and cooperative assistance throughout the hearing. The case was to be relisted for a later hearing, and the parties were directed to notify the tribunal if settlement was concluded.