Richard Webster & Co Solicitors, a leading law firm in the South East, have reacted to Government release of the final Shared Parental Leave Regulations, days before they’re to take effect.

Under the new regulations, if employees have a baby that is due on or after April 5^th of next year, they’ll be permitted to share up to a full year’s leave, allowing mothers to opt to limit their own pay and leave, choosing instead to share what’s left of their parental leave with their partner. The Shared Parental Leave Regulations 2014 is designed to give couples more time together as a family. Mothers will have the choice of returning to work before their year-long leave is over or opt to take leave in blocks with their partners.

The initial draft was produced in March of this year but the date in which it was set to go live was subsequently pushed back to December 1^st as opposed to October 1^st after widespread criticism, primarily relating to its complexity concerning employee notifications. The daft was later revised but many employ law experts agreed that it hadn’t been simplified enough.

Many employers already drafted new policies, even though there was no formal legislation. According to Personnel Today, one in five employers are “well or very prepared” for the impending legislation.

Stephen Simpson, senior employment law editor at XpertHR, a HR resource company, said: “Many employers will already be getting requests from employees for more information on shared parental leave, but the practical impact of the Regulations will really kick in towards the end of January or early February. That’s because employees generally have to give their employer at least eight weeks’ notice to take a period of shared parental leave. The very first takes of the new right are likely to be submitting their notices around then.”

Richard Webster & Co, a legal firm who often comment on relevant news and research, says there’s still time for employers to get the right processes in place.

A spokesman for the company explained: “If you’re an employer, it’s worth keeping in mind that nothing is set in stone yet and there’s still a deal of supporting legislation that has yet to be finalised. This is good for employers who haven’t made necessary changes yet as it gives them time to get the right processes and procedures in place for April 5^th 2015.

“If you’re unsure of the impending changes and you’re not sure if your business is ready for the regulations, we recommend getting in touch with a law firm and getting guidance from a professional legal team.”

Richard Webster & Co are based in Hampshire and provide legal services throughout the South East. They specialise in employment law and have over 20 years’ experience. Visit them today at http://richardwebster.com/ to find out more.