Evidence and documents

A claim is often won or lost on what you saved in the first few days. This page covers what to keep and how to handle the letters that become evidence.

Memory fades and access disappears, but a saved document does not.

Save it before access ends

Gather documents now, because work email and systems are often cut off quickly after a dismissal. Save your letter, contract, payslips, appraisals and messages about your exit.

See what to preserve and how to organise it. Do not delete or change anything you already have.

Build a clear timeline

Write down what happened in order, with dates. A short, accurate timeline is worth more than a long account, and a lawyer will ask for it first.

Note names and what was said while it is fresh in your memory. If a colleague saw or heard it, write down their name too, in case a witness is needed later.

Handle inquiry letters with care

If you received a show-cause letter, your written reply becomes part of the record. Answer the specific points calmly and on time.

If a domestic inquiry is called, how you prepare matters. Keep a copy of everything you send, and get advice first if the allegation is serious.

Where this leads

Good evidence makes every later step easier, from conciliation to a Section 20 representation.

If you want a lawyer to work from these documents, request lawyer contact first; only after an identified independent lawyer has contacted you and specifically requested the material, send what you have and the dismissal date directly to that lawyer. They can review the facts and reply on whether and how they can act.