Processing time
The average processing time for all 3 HTU offices in respect of all cases is 74 days (approx. 10,5 weeks) as at 31 December 2017 (referring to the annual report for 2018).
The normal processing time for processing claims (the mandatory time for processing cases) is approx. 8 weeks, excluding waiting time, if a case is resolved by settlement, and approx. 12 weeks if a case is resolved by a decision.
Processing times will often be longer if, for example, claims are incomplete and need to be corrected, or if we need to call for the assistance of an enforcement officer because the respondent fails to respond.
Mediation is the fastest and smoothest way of resolving disputes and is thus a priority. If mediation is tried, the parties usually reach agreement in approx. 70-80% of cases.
If the parties do not wish to engage in mediation, or if mediation is tried without the parties reaching a settlement, a decision will be made about the case in question. Decisions are made on the basis of the documents relating to the case. The shortest processing times apply to those cases where the information provided is brief and adequate. Bulky cases containing unnecessary, ambiguous information and many long letters written by the parties involved will result in long processing times.
Cases relating to termination will take priority in the queue. In such cases the parties will also be invited to attend a meeting with the Tribunal members who will be deciding their case so that they can tell the Tribunal about their views on termination.
You can read about what happens to cases under the menu entitled "Processing cases".