When you're representing yourself in an Employment Tribunal claim, disagreements with the respondent (your employer or former employer) during a Case Management Hearing (CMH) can arise.Understanding how to navigate these disagreements is crucial to ensure your case proceeds smoothly.

A CMH is a preliminary hearing where the tribunal sets the groundwork for your case.It's an opportunity to clarify issues, set deadlines, and ensure both parties are prepared for the final hearing.Disagreements during this stage are not uncommon, especially when both parties have differing views on the issues at hand.

During a CMH, you might find yourself at odds with the respondent on various matters, such as:

 The List of Issues:Determining what the tribunal needs to decide.
 Disclosure of Documents:Agreeing on which documents are relevant and should be shared.
 Witness Statements:Deciding on the content and timing of exchanging witness statements.
 Hearing Dates:Scheduling the final hearing at a mutually convenient time.

1. Stay Calm and Professional:It's essential to remain composed and respectful, even if you strongly disagree.
2. Clearly Articulate Your Position:Explain your perspective concisely and provide any supporting evidence or reasoning.
3. Listen Actively:Understand the respondent's viewpoint. Sometimes, disagreements stem from misunderstandings that can be clarified through open communication.
4. Seek the Tribunal's Guidance:If an agreement can't be reached, the employment judge will make a decision. Trust in the tribunal's role to ensure fairness.
5. Document Everything:Keep records of all communications and decisions made during the CMH. This documentation can be valuable if disputes arise later.​