Why Choose Us?
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In This Section
- Negotiating and drafting settlement agreements and exit packages
- Advising on restrictive covenants, confidentiality and protection of business interests
- Drafting and enforcing non-complete/non-solicitation clauses
- Financial compensation
- Notice periods and timing of your departure
- Garden leave arrangements
- Director resignations and announcements
- References and non-disparagement agreements to protect your reputation
- Minimising post-termination restrictions on future work and negotiating carve-outs to restrictive covenants
References and non-disparagement agreements to protect your reputation
Specialist Employment Law Solicitors Across England and Wales
At Blackstone Solicitors, we provide expert advice on settlement agreements involving references and non-disparagement clauses. When employment ends, protecting your professional reputation is often just as important as securing financial terms.
A well drafted agreement can help ensure that future opportunities are not affected by how your departure is recorded or discussed. We advise both employees and employers across England and Wales on achieving clear and fair outcomes.
Get in touch with us today on 0330 808 0918. Alternatively, complete our online enquiry form and we will contact you.
“Niyusha explained everything to me in laymen terms so everything proceeded smoothly when dealing with my LPA. Thank you Niyusha.“
-Debora Pye 
How we can help you
We are highly experienced in bringing the various settlement agreement cases we take on to a successful conclusion. We aim to provide comprehensive guidance at every step, offering the helping hand to lead you through the process to the outcome you desire.
Our team can offer help and advice on a wide range of settlement agreement cases, including:
- Negotiating and drafting settlement agreements and exit packages
- Advising on restrictive covenants, confidentiality and protection of business interests.
- Drafting and enforcing non-complete/non-solicitation clauses
- Financial compensation
- Notice periods and timing of your departure
- Garden leave arrangements
- Director resignations and announcements
- References and non-disparagement agreements to protect your reputation
- Minimising post-termination restrictions on future work and negotiating carve-outs to restrictive covenants
References in Settlement Agreements
Ensuring Accuracy and Fairness
A reference is often a key part of a settlement agreement. It can have a significant impact on future employment prospects, so the wording must be carefully considered.
In many cases, employers agree to provide a factual reference confirming job title, dates of employment and role responsibilities. This helps avoid uncertainty and ensures consistency.
Disputes can arise where references are vague, overly critical or inconsistent with the terms of the settlement. This is why agreed wording is often included directly in the agreement itself.
We assist clients in negotiating reference terms that are fair, accurate and professionally appropriate. The aim is to avoid future disputes and provide clarity for both parties.
Non Disparagement Agreements
Protecting Reputation After Employment Ends
Non disparagement clauses are designed to prevent either party from making negative or harmful comments about the other following termination of employment.
These clauses are commonly included in settlement agreements, particularly where relationships have broken down or where senior roles are involved.
While these provisions are intended to protect reputation, they must be clearly drafted. Overly broad or unclear wording can create uncertainty or lead to future disagreement.
We advise on ensuring that non disparagement clauses are balanced, reasonable and enforceable. This includes reviewing how they apply in practice and what conduct is covered.
Advice for Employees
Safeguarding Your Future Opportunities
If you are entering into a settlement agreement, it is important to consider how your reputation will be protected. References and non-disparagement provisions can play a crucial role in securing your future career prospects.
We review all proposed wording carefully and advise on whether it is fair and appropriate. Where necessary, we negotiate improved terms, including agreed references and balanced non disparagement clauses.
Our focus is on ensuring that your departure does not negatively affect your future opportunities.
Support for Employers
Managing Reputation and Risk
For employers, clear reference and non-disparagement provisions help manage reputational risk and reduce the likelihood of future disputes.
We assist in drafting consistent reference policies and settlement terms that reflect your organisation’s approach. We also ensure that clauses are legally sound and practical to apply.
Why Choose Blackstone Solicitors
Trusted Employment Law Specialists
Clients choose Blackstone Solicitors because we offer more than just legal advice. We provide reassurance, clarity and a steady hand during what can often be a stressful time.
Our approach is responsive and pragmatic. We listen carefully, communicate plainly and act decisively. Every client is different, so we tailor our advice to suit your circumstances rather than relying on a one size fits all solution.
If you require expert employment law services in England and Wales, our team is here to help. Contact Blackstone Solicitors today to discuss your situation in confidence.
Contact us today
It could not be easier to get in touch with one of our expert solicitors and find out how we can help you get the outcome you want. Simply give us a call on 0330 808 0918 or complete our online contact form and a member of our team will be in touch to discuss your situation.
We are able to serve clients from across the UK and even around the world. We have offices in Cheshire and London and regularly take on clients from the Manchester and Chester areas.
