Welcome to another episode of Solve and ThrivePam is joined by Jane Southall, an experienced employment law consultant, tribunal representative, and founder of Searchlight Employment Law Solutions. Jane brings a wealth of frontline expertise, having represented both employers and employees in employment tribunals across the UK. A barrister by training, Jane currently advises, supports, and guides companies through the labyrinth of employment law and dispute resolution.Jane walks us through her top five tips for anyone facing an employment tribunal. From considering reasonable adjustments for witnesses and understanding the importance of accessibility and support, through to the nitty-gritty of timely arrivals, statement preparation, and professional courtroom conduct, Jane’s advice is both reassuring and refreshingly down-to-earth.Key points discussed:* Reasonable Adjustments: Why it’s crucial to anticipate and request any necessary medical or neurodiversity-related accommodations for yourself and your witnesses well before tribunal day. Making these adjustments can significantly improve the quality and fairness of evidence presented, and helps ensure everyone can participate fully.* Preparing for a Stressful Environment: Jane and Pam discuss the natural stress involved in attending tribunals and how small steps—such as planning your journey and arriving early—can help mitigate anxiety for you and your witnesses.* Timeliness Matters: Jane explains the importance of punctuality, including allowing extra time for heightened security and body scans now standard in employment tribunals, and shares why being late can undermine your position before you’ve even entered the room.* Know Your Statement: Practical tips on how to prepare, review, and amend your witness statement, what to expect in terms of document exchange, and understanding the key legal issues determined in preliminary hearings.* Cross-Examination Tips: Jane shares wisdom on staying calm and professional, not taking questions or cross-examination personally, and how to handle emotionally charged situations—including the importance of not reacting to untruths or provocations from the opposing side.* Professional Conduct: The art of maintaining composure throughout, trusting the judicial process, and the usefulness of simple strategies (like passing post-it notes to your representative) to keep communication smooth and discreet during tense moments.Throughout, Pam and Jane remind us that while the tribunal process can feel intimidating, employers who manage fairly and proactively, keeping good documentation and genuinely supporting employees, have the best chance of both avoiding tribunals and presenting a strong defence if one becomes necessary.Useful Resources MentionedSearchlight Employment Law SolutionsJane Southall’s consultancy, specialising in employment law advice, tribunal preparation, and support.Website: searchlightels.ukEmail: jane.southall@searchlightels.ukPam Molyneux – PM Business Support ServicesWebsite: pmbusinesssupportservices.co.ukDisclaimer: The Solve & Thrive podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. We share practical strategies and lived experiences to help managers navigate challenging workplace situations, but you should always seek appropriate professional or legal guidance specific to your circumstances. As a manager, business owner, or HR professional, you are the expert on the unique context of the situation —so please do right by the individual circumstances. Our content and our guests contribution is intended as supportive tips and suggestions, not absolute solutions, and may not apply in every situation. Any legal or policy references discussed are accurate as of the date of recording and may not reflect current updates.