Bonus Disputes
When Promises Don’t Pay Out
Bonuses and incentive schemes are often complex, opaque and heavily weighted in favour of employers. What starts out as an exciting financial incentive can quickly become a source of dispute — particularly when bonus targets are changed without notice, payments are delayed, or discretion is used unfairly.
Employees in regulated sectors (such as finance) may also face deferral, clawback, or malus provisions. These often interact with performance reviews, disciplinary processes, or even redundancy outcomes — creating a minefield of risk.
Negotiating and Enforcing Bonus Rights
We can help you:
- Clarify your legal entitlement to a bonus;
- Challenge discretionary decisions that are irrational or unfair;
- Bring claims for unlawful deductions or breach of contract; and
- Navigate bonus clawbacks, deferrals and performance hurdles
If your employer is trying to avoid paying what you’re owed, legal action may be the only way to get clarity or recover the money. We’ll work with you to assess your chances of success and the best forum for the dispute — whether that’s the Employment Tribunal, County Court or High Court.
For prospective employees negotiating new contracts, we also provide guidance on how to protect bonus rights at the outset — including securing contractual commitments, clear criteria, and exit-related protections.