What are my
key deadlines?
Several deadlines can apply. Staying on top of them keeps your options open.
When something happens at work, there are several deadlines to keep in mind. Staying on top of them helps keep your options open.
Acas, the tribunal claim, your employer's internal process and, once a claim is live, tribunal directions each have their own deadline. Missing one can affect your options.
Acas, tribunal and internal deadlines each run separately.
Standard
- Acas early conciliationUp to 12 weeks
- Tribunal claim windowOften 3 months − 1 day
Specific to you
- Internal grievance / appealYour employer's policy
- Case management / hearingSet by the tribunal
Typical windows · exact dates depend on your facts · not legal advice
Time limits are set by law, but they count from dates specific to you, such as when you were dismissed or when you contacted Acas. Internal appeal deadlines depend on your employer's policy.
Time limits are set by law but count from your own dates.
- 01
Relevant date
Dismissal, act, or last in a series
- 02
Acas Day A → Day B
Notification can pause the claim clock
- 03
ET1 presentation
Claim must usually be in by the calculated date
- 04
Directions & hearing
New clocks once the claim is live
- 01
Relevant date
Dismissal, act, or last in a series
- 02
Acas Day A → Day B
Notification can pause the claim clock
- 03
ET1 presentation
Claim must usually be in by the calculated date
Timing
An internal appeal may not pause the time limit
Waiting for a grievance or appeal to finish does not always stop the tribunal time limit.
The deadlines tool calculates your Acas and tribunal time limits from your dates. Case Hub keeps them alongside your documents as the dispute develops.
Calculate your time limits, then track them in Case Hub.
Know and track your deadlines
Calculations help you check dates — they are not a guarantee you are in time. Not legal advice.