Law firms are bracing themselves for a raft of employment legislation which comes into force this month.


The legislation reduces the number of employees needed to invoke the right to information and consultation; outlaws discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation, religion or belief in providing goods, facilities and services; and gives carers the right to request flexible working.



David Whincup, partner at national firm Hammonds, said larger law firms might be affected by the change to the Information and Consultation of Employees Regulations 2004, which previously applied to organisations with 150 or more employees, but now applied to those with 100 or more. 'Next year [the number will] reduce still further,' he added.



Watson Burton head of employment John McMullen welcomed the other regulations as part of the government's equality-driven package.



Jonathan Rayner