Expert Advice on ACAS Settlements

COT3 Agreement Legal Advice

Received a COT3 agreement from ACAS and not sure what to do? Our expert solicitors can review the terms, advise you on your rights, and help you negotiate a better offer. We ensure you get a fair deal before you sign away your right to claim.

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This page is intended for employees. If you are an employer, please visit our dedicated page here.

Understanding Your COT3 Agreement

A COT3 is a legally binding agreement to settle an employment dispute, negotiated with the help of an ACAS conciliator. By signing it, you waive your right to bring those claims to an Employment Tribunal. It is vital to get expert legal advice **before** you agree to the terms.

Independent Legal Review

We provide a fast, thorough review of your COT3's terms, explaining what each clause means for you in plain English.

Review My COT3

Assessing the Offer

Is the financial offer fair? We assess the value of your potential claims to advise if you should accept the amount offered.

Assess My Offer

Negotiating a Better Deal

If the offer is too low, we can negotiate directly with the ACAS conciliator on your behalf to secure a higher settlement figure.

Negotiate for Me

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"Extraordinary service and advice- we contacted other firms but received no useful advice. The level of experience of the solicitor at Wildlings was highly impressive, as it helped us settle a claim in our favour. Thank you!"

- Google Review Client

"Zahid was very helpful and provided quick and detailed advise when needed turn around in short timeframe regarding a settlement agreement I had been offered by my employer."

- David, ReviewSolicitors Client

"I was very happy with the service provided. I was kept informed every step of the way and would use them again in the future."

- Shazia, ReviewSolicitors Client

COT3 Agreement FAQs

Is a COT3 the same as a Settlement Agreement?

They are very similar as both are legally binding documents used to settle employment claims. The key difference is that a COT3 agreement is used specifically to record a settlement that has been negotiated with the help of an ACAS conciliator, whereas a Settlement Agreement is usually negotiated directly between the employer and employee's solicitors.

Do I have to get legal advice on a COT3?

Unlike a Settlement Agreement, you are not legally required to get legal advice for a COT3 to be valid. However, it is highly recommended. The agreement is legally binding, and without expert advice, you may not know if the offer is fair or if the terms fully protect you. ACAS cannot provide you with legal advice, only facilitate the negotiation.

Will my employer pay for my legal advice on a COT3?

While it is not a strict legal requirement as with Settlement Agreements, it is standard practice for employers to offer a contribution towards your legal fees for COT3 advice. We can advise you on this and, in many cases, ensure the employer's contribution covers the full cost of our advice.