ACAS · COT3 · s111A

ACAS Settlement & COT3 Agreements

Free, plain-English advice on COT3 agreements via ACAS, protected conversations under s111A, and without-prejudice negotiations.

When ACAS gets involved

Before bringing most employment-tribunal claims, you must contact ACAS for early conciliation. ACAS will try to broker a settlement between you and your employer - and if it lands, that's typically recorded as a COT3. We'll advise on whether the proposed terms are fair before you commit.

Protected conversations

A "protected conversation" under s111A of the Employment Rights Act 1996 lets your employer raise ending the employment confidentially. The conversation generally can't be used against either side in an ordinary unfair-dismissal claim - but there are limits (it doesn't cover discrimination, for example). We'll tell you where the line is.

FAQs

A COT3 is recorded through ACAS - it's typically shorter and used during ACAS early conciliation. A settlement agreement is a longer standalone contract. Both are legally binding and end (or settle) the dispute.

Don't sign it yet.

Free, same-day advice from a qualified solicitor. Your employer pays the fee.