Legal Services

UNISON nationally has an agreement with Thompson's solicitors to provide legal assistance to members about work-related issues. If you think you might need legal advice about a work related matter you must contact Branch office in the first instance.

Thompsons offer the following services to members (and their families):

• Personal injury claims that can be pursued through the UK courts (ie civil claims) including work related stress claims
  

• Criminal Injury Compensation Authority Claims (CICA) ie where a member has sustained an injury due to a crime of violence, most usually assault at work.

• Industrial disease ie being exposed to dangerous substances or noise in their work

• Non work-related personal injury for members and their families. This service has been extended to cover accidents abroad where that claim can be pursued through the UK courts (ie usually where the case is against a UK travel agent/tour operator)

• Road traffic cases for members and their families to pursue road accident claims in which they have been injured regardless of whether the accident was to do with work. (Members who use this service must tell their insurers about any claim)

• Clinical negligence for members and their families who have suffered clinical negligence

BEWARE "NO WIN, NO FEE" LAWYERS

"No win, no fee" rarely means that there is actually no charge. Some people have used these lawyers and have received bills for costs such as loan agreements that they did not expect. There are no "hidden" costs when you use UNISON's solicitors.

LEGAL SURGERY AT ESSEX COUNTY BRANCH OFFICE

Thompsons locally run a free legal surgery for UNISON members in the UNISON Branch Office in Chelmsford. These are held between 1pm - 3pm and members may book a half an hour slot. These are held on the third Thursday of each month in the branch office. If you want to book an appointment, please phone the Branch Office on 01245 354044.

Author: Tracey Sparkes