What’s Included in an Employment Law Retainer Service?

Navigating the intricate world of UK employment law can be unexpectedly complex and time-consuming. Employers face an evolving legal landscape, and even a single misstep—outdated contracts, unclear absence policies, or poorly handled grievances—can expose a business to tribunal risks and operational disruption. That’s why a FixedFee Annual Employment Law Retainer Service is increasingly seen not just as legal support, but as business insurance: comprehensive, proactive, and delivered with clarity.

Here’s what you can expect when you invest in an employment law retainer—clear, concise, and purposedriven, just like the approach taken by us here at ELS.

1. Cost Certainty: Fixed Annual Fee, Flexible Billing

One of the most attractive features of a retainer is cost certainty. Instead of being billed by the hour for every query, document tweak, or policy revision, you pay one transparent annual fee—often with the option to spread it monthly via Direct Debit. This predictable pricing removes the fear of surprise legal bills and enables confident budgeting.

2. Unlimited Legal and HR Support

A retainer service typically includes unlimited access to a named, legally qualified advisor. Whether you need help with contracts, disciplinary matters, performance issues, grievances, or dismissals—you’re covered, without worrying about extra charges for frequent use.

3. Document Drafting and Vetting—Unlimited

One critical advantage: unlimited drafting and vetting of employment documents, such as contracts, offer letters, handbooks, and disciplinary or grievance materials. These tools give you peace of mind that your documentation aligns with current law and best practice.

4. Regular Legal Updates via EBulletins

Employment law is evershifting—from tribunal case law to statutory changes. Retainer clients benefit from regular ebulletins that keep you informed of vital developments, helping you stay ahead of potential legal exposure.

5. Access to HR Management Tools and ELearning

Many retainers include valuable extras like:

SecureHRM: A webbased HR management system that streamlines recordkeeping and compliance.
ELearning courses: A full suite of essential HR training modules—plus preferred rates for additional courses—to empower your team.

These tools help embed best practice across operations and give your staff accessible, ongoing support.

6. Full Coverage Across the Employee Lifecycle

A robust retainer spans the entire HR journey—from hiring to exit:

Offer letters and contracts
Policies (handbooks, grievance/disciplinary procedures, absence management)
Performance and conduct handling
Disciplinary proceedings and grievance resolution
Absence / sickness management
Terminations and redundancy processes

This comprehensive scope means you’re supported at every critical HR juncture.

7. Proactive Compliance, Less Risk

Retainer clients benefit from proactive rather than reactive legal support. This includes reviewing and refining HR practices before issues arise—minimising tribunal risk and embedding compliance in your business culture.

8. Flexible Delivery and Swift Response

Rapid response times are a hallmark of quality retainers. We offer immediate or nextday appointments, whether online or in person, ensuring timely support when matters are urgent.

9. Optional Employment Tribunal Legal Expenses Insurance

Some retainer packages offer optional legal expense insurance. At ELS, we have an Employment Law Protection Scheme—which can cover the costs of defending tribunal claims, including legal fees, awards, settlements, and representation at ACAS or tribunal. This starts from the conciliation stage and runs through to resolution.

10. Tailored Relationship and Industry Experience

With a retainer, you develop a trusted relationship with your advisor, who becomes familiar with your organisation’s culture, sector, and HR practices. This leads to advice that’s not only legally sound, but practical and aligned with your objectives. Our team know how to blend legal compliance with the realities of operational management.

11. Flexibility and Easy Cancellation

Many retainers have flexible, 12month rolling terms—with easy cancellation terms. We allow early cancellation with only 80% of the remaining fee payable—no heavy penalties or awkward commitments.

12. Efficiency Savings for Internal Teams

By taking on drafting, advice, and policy updates, the retainer service saves managers and HR leads valuable time—letting them focus on core business operations with confidence.

Quick Recap: What’s Included?

Feature	Why It Matters
Fixed annual fee (with monthly option)	Budget-friendly, predictable legal costs
Unlimited advice & named advisor	Consistent, reliable support and relationship-building
Unlimited document drafting & vetting	Ensures contracts and policies legally sound and up to date
Regular e-bulletins	Keeps you apprised of legal changes and risk areas
SecureHRM & e-learning	Streamlines HR management and staff training
Comprehensive HR support	Covers every stage of the employee lifecycle for holistic protection
Prompt, flexible access	Immediate help when issues arise
Optional tribunal insurance	Extra protection when claims arise
Tailored, pragmatic advice	Guidance that fits your business context and objectives
Flexible terms & easy cancellation	Risk-free commitment—stay or leave without hassle
Operational efficiency	Frees internal teams to focus on strategic priorities

Final Thoughts

An Employment Law Retainer Service isn’t just another line item—it’s a powerful, proactive investment in legal certainty, HR efficiency, and operational peace of mind. By combining comprehensive coverage, cost predictability, swift access to expertise, and ongoing compliance support, you gain a team that protects your business at every HR crossroads.

We shape our retainer offering to be accessible, pragmatic, and client-focused, your business can benefit immensely from a service that is both protective and partnership-driven.

At Employment Law Services (ELS) LTD, we have extensive knowledge and proven experience in drafting and advising on inclusive HR policies for diverse workforces. Whether you need practical advice, representation, or proactive support, our team is here to help.

Click here to book a free, no obligation consultation with one of our employment law specialists, or call us now on 0800 612 4772.