Running a business is challenging, and disputes with employees are often among the toughest to navigate.

Claims of unfair dismissal, wrongful discharge, or discrimination can disrupt operations and damage both reputation and morale.

Sciberras Advocates specialises in employment law, including defending employers. The firm ensures that their rights are protected and that disciplinary or termination decisions are upheld when made on solid and lawful grounds.

Defending against unfair dismissal claims

One of the most common issues that employers face is an employee challenging their dismissal. Maltese law provides that dismissals must be based on a ‘good and sufficient cause’ or redundancy. However, employees may contest legitimate disciplinary actions by alleging that terminations are discriminatory or unlawful.

"In a recent case, Sciberras Advocates represented a local company that had dismissed an employee for repeated negligence," explains founder Adrian Sciberras. "The individual later claimed that the termination was discriminatory, tying it to her pregnancy."

"Before the Industrial Tribunal, Sciberras Advocates demonstrated that the dismissal was unrelated to her pregnancy but was instead a result of her poor conduct, supported by multiple witness testimonies," he continues. "The Tribunal ruled in favour of the client, confirming that the dismissal was lawful and justified. When the case was appealed, we successfully argued that the appeal was inadmissible since it attempted to re-argue facts rather than points of law. The decision was upheld, confirming the employer’s actions were justified."

Protecting employers

Employers are sometimes accused of dismissing staff without proper process, even when decisions are entirely justified. These situations can escalate into costly disputes if not handled correctly.

Sciberras Advocates provides robust representation to ensure employers are shielded from exaggerated or unfounded claims, while also guiding them through proper termination procedures to avoid unnecessary risks.

The firm’s casework consistently demonstrates that thorough preparation and strong evidence can decisively protect a company’s position.

Discrimination claims can quickly escalate into reputational issues for any business.

Employees may allege that decisions were made based on gender, religion, trade union membership, or other protected grounds. The firm works with employers to prove that their actions were grounded in legitimate business needs and performance-related factors.

In doing so, it safeguards the clients’ reputations and ensures their decisions are recognised as fair and compliant with the law.

Why employers trust Sciberras Advocates

"Employment and labour law disputes can be complex, emotional, and high-stakes for both employers and employees," says Dr Sciberras. "At Sciberras Advocates, the focus is on navigating these challenges with precision, ensuring that clients’ rights are protected while delivering practical and fair outcomes."

Sciberras Advocates stands firmly with employers, offering the expertise and strategic defence needed to handle claims of unfair dismissal, discrimination, and wrongful discharge with confidence. The firm strategically combines detailed knowledge of employment law with extensive courtroom and tribunal experience.

Moreover, the firm offers other related services. These include drafting employment contracts, data and privacy protections, and policies, from human resources policies to health and safety policies. Sciberras Advocates also assists in negotiating employment terminations, resolving employment-related issues, obtaining work permit for foreigners, transferring employment contracts, advising in dispute resolution, defamation, settlements, whistleblowing scenarios, and other specialised services related to employment and labour law issues.

If your business is facing an employment dispute, or if you want to safeguard your company against potential claims, Sciberras Advocates is here to help. The team combines legal expertise with practical business insight to provide clear, decisive solutions that protect your interests. Contact Sciberras Advocates today to schedule a confidential consultation at [email protected] or visit: www.sciberras.legal.