Each year, thousands of employment tribunal claims are submitted in the UK, but a surprising number are later withdrawn. While this can happen for various reasons, it often boils down to two main factors: settlements and reassessment of the claim’s likelihood of success. Many employers and claimants opt to settle outside of employment tribunal proceedings to avoid lengthy, costly, and potentially reputation-damaging processes. Settlements offer a quicker resolution and allow both parties to move on without the uncertainty of a tribunal outcome. As a result, many claims that might have otherwise proceeded are resolved in this way.

In other cases, employment tribunal claims are withdrawn after a reassessment by the claimant or their representative, sometimes due to new evidence or a shift in priorities. Occasionally, claimants might lack the resources or stamina to continue the process, especially as tribunals can be daunting and time-consuming. Additionally, claimants may withdraw their case if they recognise that it lacks strong legal grounds, possibly after receiving legal advice or after a preliminary hearing. Ultimately, this trend highlights the benefits of strong workplace practices and effective early-stage dispute resolution, which can help minimise the need for formal proceedings in the first place.