Torque Law Calls for Collaboration as Tribunal Claims Surge
York-based specialist employment law firm Torque Law LLP is calling for greater collaboration between employers and legal advisers as employment tribunal claims continue to surge across the UK.
Recent Ministry of Justice statistics (published June 2026) show a sharp rise in employment tribunal claims, with active single claims increasing by 55% compared to the same period last year. The overall backlog has now exceeded half a million claims, with new cases continuing to outpace those being resolved, creating sustained pressure on the tribunal system and increased uncertainty for employers.
Set against a backdrop of proposed reforms under the Employment Rights Act and broader expansion of workers’ rights, these figures underline the growing complexity and risk facing UK employers.
Emma Cousins, Legal Director at Torque Law, commented: “A combination of rising awareness, easier access to information and the growth of AI-assisted claims is reshaping the employment landscape, driving a surge in Tribunal cases, just as employers face significant legislative change. More than ever, navigating this environment requires true collaboration between advisers and clients, to deliver strategic strength and commercially effective solutions.”
At the heart of Torque Law’s approach is a commitment to early, strategic engagement between legal advisers and businesses across Yorkshire and beyond, which the firm believes is critical to preventing disputes and achieving positive outcomes where claims do arise.
Tiggy Clifford, Partner, added: “Tribunal claims are not just legal matters; they are business-critical issues that impact people, culture and reputation. With delays stretching cases over several years and hearings being listed for as late as 2030, the impact on employers is significantly prolonged. Our role is to work alongside our clients as trusted partners, helping them reduce risk, make informed decisions and ultimately achieve better outcomes.”
In response to the increasing claims rate, Torque Law has designed a Mock Employment Tribunal event to offer practical, real-world insight into the Tribunal process and how workplace decisions are scrutinised in a tribunal setting.
The interactive session will simulate a live employment tribunal hearing, enabling attendees to see how evidence is tested, how legal arguments unfold, and how outcomes can hinge on decisions made long before a dispute reaches the courtroom.
Emma Cousins continued: “Understanding how decisions play out at tribunal is invaluable for employers. Our Mock Tribunal event brings this to life, offering practical insight that helps businesses take proactive steps to reduce risk and strengthen their approach to people management.”
This focus on collaboration and practical, strategic support is central to Torque Law’s wider ethos – not only in how the firm works with its clients, but also in how it operates as a business.
As the employment law landscape continues to evolve, Torque Law’s commitment to collaboration, excellence, passion and trust underpins both its client relationships and its internal culture, fostering an environment where talented lawyers can develop, thrive and deliver exceptional outcomes.
With a growing team, strong national client base and a clear values-driven approach, the firm continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading specialist practice and an employer of choice for employment lawyers in the Yorkshire region.
If you’re an employer interested in the Mock Tribunal event or an employment lawyer interested in joining Torque Law please visit www.torquelaw.co.uk for more information.