Independent Legal Advice Request Letter: Free Template and What to Include

If you need to request employer contributes to independent legal advice costs, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong independent legal advice request should include.

What this letter needs to cover

• Reference the legal requirement for independent advice before a settlement agreement is binding
• Request written confirmation of the contribution amount and confirm the name of the solicitor who will advise

Why independent legal advice is a required part of any settlement agreement

Settlement agreements are only legally binding if you've received independent legal advice on the terms and effect of the agreement — this is a legal requirement, not just good practice, and employers routinely contribute towards this cost since it's in their interest for the agreement to be properly binding.

What to include before you send it

• Confirmation you're seeking independent legal advice as required for the agreement to be valid
• A request for your employer to confirm their contribution towards this cost
• Reference to typical contribution amounts, if you're aware of a standard figure
• A reasonable timeframe for confirmation

What a typical contribution actually covers

Employer contributions are generally intended to cover the cost of a solicitor reviewing and advising on the settlement agreement specifically — this is usually a fixed, modest amount rather than covering broader advice on the merits of pursuing a claim instead, so it's worth understanding what the contribution is actually meant to fund.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my employer refuses to contribute anything?
While there's no absolute legal requirement for them to contribute, it's standard practice, and a refusal is worth raising directly since it can affect whether the process can proceed smoothly.

Do I have to use a solicitor recommended by my employer?
No — you're entitled to choose your own independent solicitor, and the advice must be genuinely independent for the agreement to be valid.

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Postcode]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Name of HR Contact or Manager]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[Company Postcode]
[Date]

Dear [Name],

Subject: Independent legal advice on the settlement agreement

Thank you for the draft settlement agreement dated [Date].

A settlement agreement is only legally binding if I have had independent legal advice on its terms and effect [England, Wales and Scotland: section 203 of the Employment Rights Act 1996 / Northern Ireland: Article 245 of the Employment Rights (Northern Ireland) Order 1996].

My adviser will be [Name of Solicitor], of [Firm Name], [Firm Address / Email].

Please confirm in writing how much you will contribute towards the cost of this advice [e.g. £[amount] plus VAT], and send the draft agreement to my adviser. As you have asked for it to be signed by [Date], please let me know if that date can move should my adviser need more time.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]