Comprehensive Legal Solutions • Since 1993

Unfair Dismissal & CCMA Representation in Johannesburg

Workplace dismissals can be stressful and confusing — for both employers and employees. Hugh Raichlin Attorneys provides expert legal advice and representation for unfair dismissal claims, CCMA proceedings, and Labour Court matters across Johannesburg and Gauteng.

Book a Labour Law Consultation

Know Your Rights • Know Your Duties

Understanding Unfair Dismissal

A dismissal is considered unfair if the employer fails to prove that it was based on a valid reason and followed a fair procedure. Under the Labour Relations Act (LRA), employees are protected against unfair dismissal, while employers are entitled to due process.

Learn About Disciplinary Hearings →

Common Grounds for Dispute:

Dismissal without valid reason or evidence
Failure to follow disciplinary procedures
Discrimination or victimisation
Retrenchment without consultation
Constructive dismissal (forced resignation due to unfair conditions)
Conciliation • Arbitration • Resolution

How the CCMA Handles Unfair Dismissal Cases

Our attorneys assist clients through every stage — from filing to representation — ensuring compliance and protection of rights.

  1. Referral to CCMA: Within 30 days of dismissal, an employee files a dispute.
  2. Conciliation: A commissioner facilitates mediation to find a voluntary settlement.
  3. Arbitration: If unresolved, the commissioner hears evidence and issues a binding award.
  4. Enforcement: Awards may include reinstatement, compensation, or dismissal confirmation.
Learn About Workplace Mediation →
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30+ Years • Accredited Expertise • Proven Results

Why Clients Trust Hugh Raichlin Attorneys

For more than 30 years, Hugh Raichlin Attorneys has helped employers and employees navigate unfair dismissal and CCMA disputes with fairness and professionalism.

  • Accredited Mediators: Qualified under the Gauteng directive for pre-litigation mediation.
  • Balanced Representation: Experience for both employers and employees.
  • Proven CCMA Success: Decades of successful outcomes.
  • Transparent Communication: Clear updates and cost predictability.
Compliance • Fairness • Prevention

Defending Employers at the CCMA

For employers, a single procedural error can turn a fair dismissal into an unfair one. We guide employers through compliant processes, prepare documentation, and provide representation at CCMA hearings.

We Assist Employers With:

  1. Drafting compliant dismissal notices
  2. Managing disciplinary and incapacity procedures
  3. Preparing and presenting evidence
  4. Negotiating settlements before arbitration
  5. Implementing mediation to comply with the High Court’s directive
  6. Explore Labour Law Compliance →
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Advocacy • Protection • Justice

Supporting Employees Through the CCMA

Employees who believe they’ve been dismissed unfairly deserve a fair hearing. We assess your case, prepare documentation, and represent you during CCMA or Labour Court proceedings.

We Help Employees:

  • File disputes and meet CCMA deadlines
  • Draft and present affidavits and evidence
  • Negotiate settlements or reinstatement
  • Understand rights under the Labour Relations Act
  • Learn About Workplace Mediation →
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Fairness Requires Preparation

Mistakes That Undermine Dismissal Cases

  • Late CCMA Referrals – File within 30 days of dismissal.
  • Ignoring Mediation – The Gauteng directive requires mediation before court proceedings.
    Mandatory Mediation Explained →
  • Incomplete Documentation – Missing contracts or evidence weaken your case.
  • Emotional Representation – Always focus on facts and process.
  • Unlawful Procedures – Skipping disciplinary or consultation steps creates liability.
Resolve • Rebuild • Reconnect

Workplace Mediation Before or After Dismissal

Mediation allows employers and employees to resolve workplace disputes constructively before escalation. It preserves relationships, saves costs, and ensures compliance with the Gauteng High Court’s mandatory mediation directive.

Mediation Can Resolve:

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Attorneys with specialist expertise

Our team brings accredited skills across property, family, commercial, labour, and mediation law.

Over 30 Years Of Experience​

Trusted by generations of clients since 1993.

500+ Family & Divorce Cases Resolved

Guiding families through sensitive matters with compassion and clarity.

Reported High Court & Supreme Court of Appeal Judgments

Our cases have shaped South African common law and set lasting precedents.

Workplace Fairness • Legal Confidence

Unfair Dismissal & CCMA FAQs

Fairness. Clarity. Representation.

Protect Your Rights — Defend Your Business

Whether you’ve been dismissed or are managing an employment termination, Hugh Raichlin Attorneys provides the expertise, balance, and professionalism to resolve matters fairly and efficiently.

Schedule a Labour Law Consultation
Learn More

Contact Us

Here\’s how you can contact us for any questions or concerns.

1 The Avenue, Norwood, Johannesburg 2192

011 010 8336

WhatsApp chat

reception@raichlin.co.za

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