SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT SOLICITORS

Leaving your employment under a settlement agreement can feel uncertain, particularly when your income, reputation and future career are at stake. Our employment law solicitors provide clear, independent advice on the terms you have been offered and what they mean for you. Whether you need a straightforward agreement reviewed or support negotiating a more complex exit package, HM3 Legal will protect your interests and help you move forward with confidence.

Associations and Affiliations

We are experienced settlement agreement solicitors

A settlement agreement is a legally binding contract between you and your employer. It usually involves your employer offering compensation in return for you agreeing not to bring certain employment claims against them.

For the agreement to be legally valid, you must receive advice from an independent legal adviser. Our settlement agreement solicitors will explain the effect of each clause, identify any terms that could disadvantage you and confirm whether the compensation offered reflects your circumstances.

We can advise you on:

Settlement payments and compensation.
Notice pay and outstanding wages.
Holiday pay, bonuses and commission.
Potential Employment Tribunal claims.
Confidentiality clauses.
Agreed employment references.
Whistleblowing situations.
Restrictive covenants.
Pension and share scheme arrangements.
Tax treatment of termination payments.
Legal fees paid by your employer.
Your termination date and exit arrangements.
Negotiating improved settlement terms.
Protecting your professional reputation.

Our settlement agreement solicitors

Justine Watkinson

Partner & Head of Employment Law

Deana Phillips

Senior Associate

Charissa Lewis

Associate

Megan Richardson

Paralegal

Finnula Clements

Paralegal

Our settlement agreement legal services

Reviewing your settlement agreement

Before signing a settlement agreement, it is essential to understand exactly what rights you are giving up and whether the proposed terms protect your interests. Our solicitors will carefully review the full agreement, explain each clause in plain English and identify anything that may need to be changed. We will check the proposed compensation, notice pay, holiday entitlement, bonus payments, confidentiality provisions, reference wording and any restrictions affecting your next role. We can also advise whether you may have potential claims for unfair dismissal, discrimination, redundancy pay or breach of contract.

Once you are satisfied with the terms, we can sign the required adviser’s certificate to make the agreement legally binding. Employers will often contribute towards the cost of obtaining this independent legal advice.

Negotiating improved settlement terms

You do not have to accept the first settlement agreement offered by your employer. If the compensation is too low or the wider terms do not reflect your circumstances, our employment law solicitors can negotiate on your behalf. We will consider your salary, length of service, contractual entitlements, reason for leaving and the strength of any potential employment claims. We can then approach your employer or their solicitor to request improved compensation and more favourable exit terms.

Negotiations may also cover notice pay, bonuses, commission, accrued holiday, an agreed reference, confidentiality obligations and restrictions on future employment. Our aim is to secure a fair overall package while helping you avoid unnecessary conflict, delay and uncertainty during what can already be a difficult period in your working life.

Complex and senior employee settlements

Settlement agreements involving directors, executives and senior employees can include more than a single compensation payment. They may involve substantial bonuses, shares, options, long notice periods, directorships, pension arrangements and restrictive covenants that could affect future career opportunities. Our solicitors can advise on the complete financial and professional impact of the proposed agreement. We will examine how the termination affects your contractual benefits, share schemes, deferred remuneration, company property, public announcements and future employment.

We can also negotiate suitable reference wording and agreed communications to protect your professional reputation. Where allegations, discrimination, whistleblowing, performance concerns or workplace disputes are involved, we will provide strategic advice tailored to the circumstances. HM3 Legal will help you secure an agreement that supports both your immediate position and your future plans.

Our legal offices

Chester

Gorse Stacks House
George Street
Chester
CH1 3EQ

Liverpool

Exchange Station
Tithebarn Street
Liverpool
L2 2QP

Manchester

Charter House
Woodlands Road
Altrincham
WA14 1HF

Wirral

6 Abbots Quay
Monks Ferry
Birkenhead
CH41 5LH

(By prior appointment only)

Reasons to instruct HM3 Legal

Plain English promise.

A jargon and waffle-free zone. Helping you to understand your options and make the right decisions.

No chase pledge.

Peace of mind. Removing the frustrations of wondering where things are up to and what is next.

Fixed fees options.

Removing uncertainty. With fixed fee options and clear pricing we will not land you with a surprise bill.

One central point of contact.

Looking at your needs holistically. Chances are, your business operations do not work in silos so neither do we.

Settlement agreements key contact: Justine Watkinson

Partner and Engagement Director

Justine Watkinson is a Partner at HM3 Legal, bringing decades of legal and commercial experience to employment law and HR matters. Supporting HR teams, providing tailored training covering employment law and culture, and transforming workplaces are her areas of expertise. Known for practical, people-focused advice, she helps businesses understand their culture, manage change and plan for expansion. A trusted legal adviser and positive change-manager, Justine combines commercial insight with genuine commitment to clients, colleagues and business impact.

Have you been offered a settlement agreement?

Receiving a settlement agreement can leave you unsure whether the offer is fair, how quickly you need to respond and what signing it could mean for your future.

Our approachable employment law solicitors will explain your options clearly and help you make an informed decision (before signing anything). We can review the agreement, advise on any potential employment claims and negotiate changes where the proposed terms do not adequately protect you.

Contact HM3 Legal today for independent advice about your settlement agreement and the next steps available to you.

Reviews

4.8 Over 590 Reviews

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Chris Kenny 6 days ago

Me and my wife have recently used HM3 Legal for the purchase of our house and I would highly recommend them. They made the process really easy for us keeping us informed along the way of what was happening and supporting us by answering any queries we had. They have a great team with Christie, Sara and Theo helping us whenever we needed. We'll definitely be using them again 🙂

Miss Worrall 7 days ago

Mike was so quick to be on the phone and help us in a really tricky situation.

Thanks so much
He is a credit to HM3 legal

James Longster 1 week ago

We have appointed HM3 Legal several times in the last few years. They have aways been very attentive and kept us informed at every stage. In particular we have found them to be very proactive in dealing with any issues arising and generally managing the whole conveyancing process most effectively. Recommended!

DAVID DAVIES 1 week ago

During a long drawn out process, Lucy and her colleagues kept us informed at every stage. They gave clear answers to all our questions and guidance in filling out the many forms. We would recommend this company for its professionalism and attention to detail.

Peter Fullerton 2 weeks ago

Originally this company (Robert’s and Denye, a fine old-style firm of local and family solicitors then taken over by Hillyer and McKeown) wrote my parents’wills.
This year they were asked to make some changes and redraft and set up two LPAs. What they did was to farm out this task to a bunch of total cowboys working out of Manchester or Derbyshire(who knows?). This company has proved to be unprofessional and unbusiness-like (1.6/5 on Trust Pilot!). I asked Hillyer and McKeown (who have been taken over yet again) why this had happened without us being told and not agreeing to this and was told,”It’s what we do now. I can’t give you any more information.”
The “agency” as they are called the company are already not returning phone calls nor acknowledging e-mails…although they’ve taken all our money before we’d even signed a letter of engagement.
I can’t believe this is allowed to happen and will be taking further action. In the meantime they Hillyer and McKeown (HM3 Legal now) won’t be getting any more work from this estate.
Who sub-contracts work to a company with a 1.6/5 rating? Obviously somebody who couldn’t care less about their clients. To say I’m annoyed with them is an understatement !

Barry James 4 weeks ago

My appointments were always not too far away date wise, my emails were responded to quickly.
During my visits to the Chester office, I was always treated well by all members of the team.
All my queries were resolved in a satisfactory manner, and I now have the safe knowledge that my will has been updated.
My only negative is your introduction, in that you addressed me as Barry James. The latter is indeed my middle name, but not my surname..

Barbara Harrison 4 weeks ago

HM3 Legal have been so helpful and supportive throughout. I have been able to contact the person dealing with my case directly without having to go through a switchboard each time, which is so refreshing. Emails are answered promptly, appointments run to time. Overall, I have been very impressed with HM3 Legal.

Graham Lysaght 4 weeks ago

A Google User 4 weeks ago

Andy 4 weeks ago

This is the second time that I have used HM3 Legal for employment settlement agreements, and once again they have provided a superlative professional service. Finnula contacted me right away from my initial email referring me to Deana Phillips.

Deana has been extremely proactive employing her natural communication skills, moving the process forward very quickly, and achieving a swift conclusion. She explained the legal jargon clouding the agreement, putting it into straightforward language. Making it clear to understand, and combined with her most amiable manner, Deana ensured the process was both pleasant and enjoyable, whilst maintaining a highly professional legal service.

I can wholeheartedly and without any reservation recommend the services of HM3 Legal for top notch advice, service and speed.

Thank you.

Panya 4 weeks ago

A lawyer friend referred me to HM3 Legal for advice on my employment matters. They were what it says on their website - bl**dy brilliant lawyers.
The advisory team, led by Justine and supported by Megan and Deana, has done a fantastic job. They consistently exceeded my expectations, managed all communication seamlessly, and kept me proactively updated at every stage of my case. Their fee structure was entirely transparent, I was always informed of the costs upfront before any work started.
I would not hesitate to use their services again.

Graham Lysaght 4 weeks ago

Such a prompt response when I reached out and from start to finish always available to answer any questions I had. Deeply professional and I would highly recommend speaking to them before going anywhere else. Thank-you.

Michelle Smith 4 weeks ago

Great service from both Kathleen and Sophie., regarding a will dispute. Always available to help with any issues we had. We would not have got the outcome we had without there help. Thanks.

Claire 1 month ago

We’ve recently completed our service with Deana at HM3. Her compassion, professionalism and expertise can only be described as outstanding.
Throughout the last 5 months, Deana has been straight forward in her advice, being true to her word from day one. She is honest, avoids talking jargon and took into consideration the needs of the people involved and their personal circumstances.

The entire team at HM3 have treated us with the upmost compassion and we never once felt overwhelmed with the information and advice we were given. Deana worked at our pace and ensured we never felt pressured. She continually reassured us with our questions and concerns though our the entire relationship.

Highly recommended and thank you so much for all your support. We will always be grateful

Nicola 1 month ago

We were guided through the process of making a will from start to finish, with all our many questions answered. Ruth and Abigail responded quickly to all our queries and were always available for online meetings when requested. Everything was explained clearly, whether in conversation or in writing, so that we felt happy throughout the process. We felt that HM3 Legal provided an excellent service for their fees.

Kevin Axon 1 month ago

We used Mike recently to recover a debt of over £30,000 which was very significant for a small business like ours. Mike was brilliant from the off and recovered the funds in full very quickly. Highly recommended.

Dean 1 month ago

Georgina and the team made me feel safe throughout the process. Georgina dotted the i's and crossed the t's, and even when I advised I wasn't too worried about certain clauses she struck the right balance between protecting me and being commercial. I highly recommend.

JC123 1 month ago

Professional and friendly. Provided good advice and all matters dealt with very promptly.
Would recommend

Mark 1 month ago

A very professional job, with excellent communication throughout the process. Highly recommended.

Hilary M 2 months ago

Frances Williams and her team were excellent in their approach to dealing.with my relative's.will and probate. They were able to explain everything regarding the financial and legal side in a way I was able to understand. Their service was completed in good time, with good communication throughout and they were a pleasure to deal with.

katy 2 months ago

Your team was professional and very sympathetic as it was my mum who had passed away.
I would definitely use HM3 Legal myself and recommend anyone in need of a trusted firm..

VSUZ 2 months ago

We found this company to be very approachable, down to earth and not pushy in anyway, great to deal with, and for once, I would fully recommend, which is not something I do very often these days. Dealt with our request swiftly and very professionally. Well done all,

Mr Grant Taylor 2 months ago

HM3 Legal were easy to deal with and delivered satisfactorily on all fronts throughout the entire process. I recommend them highly.

Rehana Younis 2 months ago

We had issues getting money from a business client and Dani Norman and team at HM3 really helped getting money back
She was prompt with communications and kept us informed in the process.
We managed to recover 75% plus of money after more than a year of back and forth.
Thank you.

paul rogers 2 months ago

Great service. Kept me well informed throughout my dealings with HM3

Alan Layton 2 months ago

In all my dealings with HM3 I have found them to be both professional and approachable .

The whole team are responsive and demonstrate a real desire to provide guidance across a range of disciplines. .

Catherine W 3 months ago

I rarely leave reviews, but I have to highly recommend HM3 Legal. I have had two matters that they have assisted me with, and I wouldn't hesitate to use them again. My family matters were handled by Emma Evans and Robbie Oates, who provided an outstanding level of service throughout. Emma and Robbie were incredibly supportive during some very hard times, and everything was dealt with swiftly and professionally, no matter how the other party tried to derail and delay! Each step was explained clearly to me so that I knew what was happening and what would happen next, and both Emma and Robbie really put me at ease with the difficulties that I was facing - they lifted huge weights off my shoulders. Having direct contact with them also made the process much easier - I never had to re-explain anything and I was always kept updated. They were able to find solutions to problems that I didn't think would ever end, and I am so grateful for all of their assistance, time and advice. Thank you both!

Sheila Brown 3 months ago

We used this service for personal wills. Very kind and courteuos service. thank you.

Ann Murray 3 months ago

The service I received from Ceri Burns at HM3 Legal has been excellent. Ceri is professional and efficient providing clear information and support in dealing with both wills and probate. She kept me fully informed throughout the process which was very reassuring. Thank you.

Ann Catherine Murray 3 months ago

fiona Connor 3 months ago

HM3 Legal, in particular Frances Williams and Shannon Ashley went above and beyond to handle my parent's estate. I am overseas and they were able to use technology to keep the process moving forward and to save me having to make trips to their office. They communicated clearly via email, and addressed questions and concerns in a very timely way. They let me know when someone was out of the office and there was always a person to contact in their place if need be. When external processes took less time than anticipated they moved things forward as soon as possible rather than adhering to the planned schedule.
HM3 Legal delivered better service than expected and I would highly recommend them for wills and estate planning.

see.łxxy Dugdale 3 months ago

Very compassionate, helpful and thorough.

see.łxxy Dugdale 3 months ago

Ceri made the whole process as easy as she could, kept us informed of everything very promptly, and was a pleasure to deal with. Very professional, but showed empathy for our sad situation. Nothing was toomuch trouble, and she always explained everything and ensured we understood before she took went ahead with things. Would definitely go to her in the future. Thank you.

Phil Hall 3 months ago

Due to a restructure, I was leaving my role and needed some legal advice. I was recommended to speak to HM3 Legal who would deal with my request professionally. The advisor I spoke to was Deana, who explained all the legal jargon and broke it down into easy bite sized chunks. Also gave me some advice on what to expect next. Very happy with the service I received.

Mr Richard Jones 3 months ago

Used HM3 legal for a will and power of attorney in relation to a family member....no complaints and no issues...everything done as requested and all done professionally and efficiently......would have no hesitation in reccommending them to any one else.

Natalie 3 months ago

I had long divorce proceedings which I found to be very complex and at times difficult to understand. Holly Thomas was great at explaining everything and giving her advice, she put everything into plain English for me to be able to understand. Holly was always available, always able to give me direct contact.
Robbie Oates was also great at keeping me updated throughout and nothing was too much trouble.
This is not a nice thing to have to go though but thanks to Holly and Robbie, I felt fully supported the whole 2 years 7 months through! I would definitely say they both provided a WOW service.

Indigo Home Gift 4 months ago

I would highly recommend Ian Millington and the team at HM3 Legal Solicitors. From the moment I instructed them on a new commercial lease agreement, I was incredibly impressed by the speed of their response and the efficiency with which they dealt with everything.
Ian reviewed the lease promptly, identified the key issues, and explained everything in a clear, concise and easy to understand way. Rather than overwhelming me with legal jargon, he provided practical advice that gave me complete confidence in the decisions I needed to make.
The whole team were professional, responsive and a pleasure to deal with throughout. Their excellent communication and attention to detail made what could have been a complex and time consuming process feel straightforward and stress free.
If you're looking for commercial solicitors who combine first class legal expertise with exceptional client service, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Ian Millington and the team at HM3 Legal.
Jill Walker
Managing Director
Indigo Home & Gift

Joe Anderson 4 months ago

HM3 Legal provided representation during our house move. Clare made the whole process much easier for us. Her communication was clear, and always kept us up to date with everything that was happening across other parties solicitors and estate agents.
I would highly recommend Clare to any of my peers. Her professionalism was exceptional.

Sarah 4 months ago

I can’t recommend Deana Phillips highly enough. She made a stressful situation much easier by explaining everything clearly and keeping me updated throughout. I always knew where things stood and Deana was quick to answer any questions I had. Having one person dealing with my case from start to finish made a real difference. Deana was professional, supportive and always went the extra mile to help. Thank you again for all your support.

peter young 4 months ago

Ceri and Chloe professional and so helpful with mothers Poa and will

Lesley 4 months ago

I am very happy with the professional service Frances gave us . She spent a lot of time explaining the information ,and made it easier to understand . I will recommend this firm to friends if they need advice .

Simon 4 months ago

Happy to recommend the excellent Wills and Probate team at HM3.
From our initial meeting with Frances, we were informed of the methods and techniques to structure our wills in the most efficient formats.
Frances explained complex legal structures in easy to understand terms and was a pleasure to deal with.
Shannon was excellent with the back office work making sure everything came through promptly and in the right fashion.

Ian Suckley 4 months ago

Informed of the cost upfront. Kept in the loop at all times and given help along the 'journey.' Nothing was too much trouble or stumped our expert (Ian Millington in this case), and the whole experience was painless and smooth.

Robert Radcliff 4 months ago

Ruth and Abigail sorted codicils to my and my wife's wills quickly and efficiently. All interactions were friendly and pleasant, in the nicest of surroundings. Once again, HM3 performed excellently for us.

David Wallis 5 months ago

Roy Cherian 5 months ago

Deana Phillips was my advisor. She was extremely helpful during the process by breaking legal language down to be sure I understand it clearly. Thank you so much for your service. Highly recommend it.

Jessica Wheatley 5 months ago

Myself and my sister have just used HM3 for legal support when purchasing a business. We absolutely cannot say enough how fantastic the service was from Georgina Anwyl and Daniela Keogh. We were both very new and completely naive to anything and everything legal and could not have had better support and guidance! We mostly worked with Georgina and she was outstanding! Nothing was too much trouble, every call email and message was answered quickly, and what should have been a fairly straightforward process quickly turned into something alot more lengthy and complicated then any of us anticipated but Georgina was fantastic and we honestly couldn’t have done it without her or asked for any more! We are so so grateful and wouldn’t hesitate to come back to Georgina and Daniela should we need any further support in the future. Thank you so much

George Skinner 5 months ago

Abigail provided an excellent client centred service during our meeting today. She was courteous, clear and concise, and thoroughly professional in walking me through a change to my will. Abigail also offered to take forward some additional points I'd raised previously. Excellent ambassador for HM3 Wills & Probate!

Tim Ratcliffe 5 months ago

A massive thank you to Emma, Robbie, and Rachel in the family team at HM3 Legal Chester. They handled my divorce beautifully for me at a very emotional and unsettled time in my life. They gave me advice specific to my situation, kept me updated throughout, and explained everything to me along the way. They were all polite, supportive, and kind. I would recommend this team and HM3 Legal to anyone. I hope to never need their services again, however, if I did, they'd be the only solicitors I'd use.
Many thanks to everyone at HM3.

Luke Noble-Smith 5 months ago

Deana was really helpful with my case; she really excelled in their Plain English Promise in breaking the legal language down so I had a full understanding. I’d definitely recommend in the future.

paul roberts 5 months ago

Could not fault Ceri Burns in her work and explanations whilst making the alterations to our request of previous wills. Because of extra grandchildren to our family tree.
Only 4 Stars because we were never notified as to the change from Hillier & McKeown to HM3 Legal.
It was only when we wanted to alter the wills that by good fortune I still had phone number of Hamilton Square. Well done to Ceri for patience and knowhow.
Paul Roberts

KJohnson 5 months ago

Excellent service provided by Michael. Guided us through the mediation service which we had not used before. Positive outcome for all concerned.

Ann Nonymous 6 months ago

I would highly recommend HM3 Legal. Sophie was professional yet amiable from start to finish and was consistent at keeping me regularly updated through out the proceedings. HM3 made a very stressful period much easier to navigate, due to their skill, assistance and understanding.

Gorby 6 months ago

I recently used HM3 for both the sale of my previous home and the purchase of my new one, and I couldn’t be happier with the service I received. From start to finish, Dan, Grace & Courtney handled the process with professionalism, efficiency, and clear communication.
They kept me informed at every stage, explaining any legal details in a straightforward and accessible way, which made what can often be a stressful experience feel much more manageable. Emails and calls were always responded to promptly, and I felt confident that everything was being handled thoroughly and carefully.
What really stood out was their attention to detail and proactive approach. Any potential issues were identified early and resolved quickly, helping to avoid delays and keep both transactions moving smoothly. We had a few challenges with the sale of our property, but the team provided clear solutions with phone calls to explain next steps and alternative options if we needed them/
I would highly recommend HM3 to anyone buying or selling a property. Their expertise, reliability, and friendly approach made a significant difference, and I would not hesitate to use their services again in the future.

Yas 6 months ago

B Scowen 6 months ago

Excellent service received by Ceri Burns and team. We were kept informed of progress, she walked us through the process answering our questions and providing reassurance when needed

Angela Burrage 6 months ago

Deana was very professional, patient, and knowledgeable. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending her services at Hm3 Legal.

Lynne 6 months ago

During a course of protracted and complicated issues in relation to my late brothers estate, Ceri Burns provided regular and timely updates regarding the progress and sound advice on the more complex issues that inevitably surfaced. Ceri was methodical and very pleasant in her demeanour and professional at all times. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend her services and would most certainly use Ceri again without hesitation.

Abi Cattlin 6 months ago

Sophie Bebbington supported me through a very challenging and emotional time, and her calm, clear guidance made an enormous difference. She was responsive, reassuring, and consistently practical in her advice. I’m genuinely grateful for her help and would highly recommend her.

Michael Risnes 6 months ago

The team all around were very professional and Lauren Douglas went above and beyond working late hours to get the deal over the line, very much appreciated..

Robert Mittins 6 months ago

Very happy with the results in setting up my family trusts handled by Francis Williams.

Stanley Kerruish 6 months ago

I have no hesitation in giving Lucy Furness a 5 star rating for her efficiency in dealing with an Easement on my behalf.
She kept me posted at all times and always returned telephone calls.I recommend her.

Stephen Astles 7 months ago

Deana was my solicitor and was extremely helpful and efficient, I would heartily recommend her!

Angela McMahon 7 months ago

A great service with excellent advice and support. I would highly recommend this firm and the lawyer who supported me

Christine Mary Hart 7 months ago

Given advice which was easy to understand. All my questions were answered in full. Staff are excellent, helpful and polite.

Tim Ratcliffe 7 months ago

I've recently used HM3 Legal to make a will and power of attorney. Both Sophie Prescott and Shannon Ashley couldn't have been more helpful and understanding when I met them both. Everything was explained clearly to me and my needs were met. Thanks to Sophie and Shannon this process was quick and easy. I'd recommend HM3 Legal if you're think of making a will.

Lynne 7 months ago

I dealt mainly with Frances in Trusts and Wills and she was absolutely excellent throughout the whole process. My case was complex and had been messed up previously by two other firms but Frances was very quickly able to work out what on earth they had done then resolve it. I always new where I stood, what was being done, by whom and how long it would take. Pricing was clear and there were no nasty shocks. Frances was the first legal expert NOT to tell me what I wanted to hear and to actually be correct. She knew exactly what she was doing and made a horrendously stressful experience way less unpleasant. I cannot recommend her and HM3 Legal highly enough. I would definitely use them again.

antonia bennett 7 months ago

I went to HM3 Legal to sort out my will. Frances was clear in what they would do for me. The service was prompt and professional and were always on hand to answer my questions. Very happy with my experience.

Ronald Weston 7 months ago

What I thought would be a daunting task turned out to be the opposite thanks to Frances Williams. From the first point of contact to completion her explanations and guidance were deserved of the rating above. Overall very pleased with the service given. Highly recommend HM3

JOSEPH CROFTS 7 months ago

I recently had occasion to update my Will and my business was dealt with by Ceri, who, apart from being very knowledgeable and helpful, completed the matter in a timely and efficient manner as well as answering all of my questions in plain English and to my complete satisfaction.I found that dealing with HM3Legal was very reassuring especially knowing that my affairs are now in very capable hands. Joseph Crofts

Jenny Randles 7 months ago

Fantastic experience from start to finish! Thank you for your guidance, support, professionalism and knowledge throughout our moving process. We couldn’t have asked for better solicitors. The communication through the whole process was brilliant, we felt fully informed through out the process. I would highly recommend HM3 legal, and a huge thank you to Megan, John and Ceri!

John Williams, Goostrey, Cheshire. 7 months ago

I have no hesitation in giving this firm five stars - and even the CDM (Cadbury's Dairy Milk!) - for its efficiency in dealing with a legal document related to a utility service which began more than five years ago. At every stage, it has kept us fully informed, and it was completed today to our complete satisfaction. The case has been handled by Lucy, to whom we owe our thanks and gratitude for a service well done.

catherine 7 months ago

Excellent service throughout our claim. Kept us regularly informed of proceedings

WebCreation 7 months ago

Great communication and service from Lucy Furness. We instructed HS3 to work on a deed of easement in conjunction with SSE. I was kept informed along the way and got the desired result. I'll use them again for sure and ideally work with Lucy again too.

John Hirst 8 months ago

Cannot praise this firm enough. Lucy and her assistant Claire consistently kept us informed throughout our claim process. Explaining the various documents and were always just a phone call away to help.

John Hirst 8 months ago

Ian Davies 8 months ago

Mary Fellows 8 months ago

I was recommended by a friend and Ceri visit me home really friendly explain everything in easy to understand language would highly recommend I did my will, Powers of Attorney with her

Sian Chandler 8 months ago

Meeting with and engaging the services of Sophie, supported by Katie has been reassuring and encouraging during a very stressful and difficult time.
They both have been very diligent, responsive and solid in their responses and actions.
I would highly recommend their services. Happy to expand on my experience if anyone would like to know more!

Alli Coppack 8 months ago

Professional yet friendly… lovely people to do business with..

Aleta Doran 8 months ago

Ruth’s professional approach and clarity of communication was very reassuring - an excellent experience!.

Vicki Roskams 9 months ago

In each part of my situation, departments worked together seamlessly, kept me in the loop, and ensured the process happened effectively and legally, taking the emotion out of the situation.

Helen Booth 9 months ago

Brilliant company to work with, friendly and kept me up to date every step of the way, thank you

Kyle Kirkham 10 months ago

Helped by signing my Statutory Declaration within hours of the request. Kind, friendly, prompt and professional.

S Day 10 months ago

Wills and probate were great but conveyancing the worst ever in 45 years, nobody had a clue, of 4 people, documents were lost, searches at last minute and evidently nobody read them asdifferent searches contradicted the other. Conveyancing treadmill, we will churn out the docs, at a high price, up to you if you want to go ahead. Dreadful

Ewelina Nowak 11 months ago

I would like to express my sincere thanks to the whole HM3 Legal team for their support during the sale of my garage. A special thank you goes to Theo, who was incredibly helpful, patient and always available to explain each step clearly.
I’m very happy with the service. I would gladly recommend this firm to anyone looking for trustworthy legal assistance.

Natasha Evelyn Flint 11 months ago

HM3 are our trusted team of legal experts. There efficiency, legal knowledge and customer service is excellent. We would not use any other Solicitors.

Joelene Mcshane 11 months ago

Jason Foley-Doherty 12 months ago

If you need advice around shareholder agreements, contracts or anything corporate speak to Georgina as the information and overview has proven so valuable my business partner and I can't thank Georgina and her team enough, not to mention the speed in which they delivered the information - 100% highly recommend.

Jen Martin 12 months ago

I’ve received outstanding legal advice and support from Ruth Marsh at HM3 over the past couple of years on a number of matters involving probate, trusts, and wills. Ruth is exceptionally knowledgeable, responsive and thorough, always taking the time to explain things clearly and answer all of my questions.

Fees were clearly explained before work commenced and were fair and competitive. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Ruth and HM3 to anyone seeking expert legal support with personal or family matters.

Settlement agreement FAQs

What is a settlement agreement?

A settlement agreement is a legally binding contract between an employer and an employee. The employer will usually offer a compensation payment or other benefits in exchange for the employee agreeing not to bring specified legal claims. Agreements are commonly used when employment is ending, although they can also resolve disputes while employment continues. To be legally valid, the employee must receive advice from an independent solicitor or another suitably qualified adviser before signing the document.

Do I need a solicitor to sign a settlement agreement?

Yes. A settlement agreement will not normally be legally binding unless you have received independent advice from a suitably qualified adviser about its terms and effect. A solicitor will explain which employment claims you are agreeing to waive and highlight any clauses that could affect you. HM3 Legal can review the agreement, recommend amendments and sign the adviser’s certificate once you understand and accept the final terms. Your employer will usually contribute towards the cost of this advice.

Is the first settlement agreement offer final?

No. The first offer is not necessarily the final amount or set of terms available. You may be able to negotiate a higher compensation payment, an improved reference, changes to confidentiality clauses or the removal of restrictions affecting future employment. The strength of your position will depend on your circumstances, contractual rights and any potential employment claims. Our settlement agreement solicitors can assess the offer and negotiate with your employer where there are reasonable grounds to request better terms.

How much compensation should I receive in a settlement agreement?

There is no fixed amount because settlement compensation depends on your individual circumstances. Relevant factors may include your salary, length of service, notice entitlement, reason for leaving, potential employment claims and how long it may take you to find another role. Any contractual payments should also be considered separately. HM3 Legal can assess the financial value of the offer (before you sign anything), explain whether it appears reasonable and negotiate for an improved package if the proposed compensation does not properly reflect your position.

How long do I have to consider a settlement agreement?

The ACAS Code of Practice suggests that employees should usually be given at least 10 calendar days to consider the written terms and obtain independent advice. The appropriate period may depend on the circumstances, and employers sometimes set shorter deadlines. You should avoid signing under pressure without understanding the agreement. If the proposed deadline does not provide enough time, your solicitor can request an extension and advise whether any employment tribunal time limits also need to be protected.