Q: Who can be a support person for an employee in a dismissal meeting? Can it be a lawyer?

A: A support person can ostensibly be anyone the employee chooses. However, you should be aware that the support person does not typically have a speaking role and is not there to be an advocate for the employee during the meeting. So, whether it is a friend, union rep, co-worker or solicitor the meeting should operate in the same manner. A support person will typically take notes of the meeting and during any break in the meeting, discuss matters raised and options with the employee in question.

Please note: The answer is correct at the time of publishing. Be aware that laws may change over time. Refer to Dismissal for current advice.