Non-legal panel members play a crucial role in ensuring fair and realistic decisions. Here's what you need to know.

The Role of Non-Legal Members in Employment Tribunals
Who are tribunal non-legal members?
Non-legal members are individuals with real-world experience of workplaces—either from employer or employee backgrounds. They serve alongside the Employment Judge to hear cases such as discrimination, whistleblowing, or complex unfair dismissal claims.

Why non-legal members are seen as essential
Their presence ensures the tribunal panel reflects real working environments—not just legal theory. This practical perspective helps all parties trust the fairness of the outcome.

What Non-Legal Members Actually Do in the Hearing
Listening, questioning, and clarifying facts
Non-legal members play an active role. They listen carefully, ask relevant questions, and help clarify evidence in practical terms, ensuring workplace context is accurately considered .

Contributing equally to decision making
After the hearing, decisions are made collectively. Non-legal members join the judge in deliberation, sharing their perspectives to reach a fair decision based on both law and lived experience .

How to Work With Lay Members as a Litigant in Person
Present workplace evidence clearly
Structure your evidence in ways all panel members can follow—use clear timelines, explain roles, and highlight everyday workplace practices.

Think practically in your questioning
Frame your questions and evidence in terms of how things work in real jobs. That connection helps lay members relate and judge your arguments more effectively.

Ask during case management for clarity
At your case management hearing, feel free to ask: “Will this claim include lay members?” It helps you understand who’ll hear your case and tailor your preparation.


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