Received CCMA papers? Start with the facts.
This page helps you get organised. It is not a legal opinion, and it cannot tell you what outcome you will receive.
Do these five things first
- Read every page and write down the hearing date, case number and type of matter.
- Keep the referral and every notice. Do not alter messages, payroll records, CCTV, attendance data or other evidence.
- Make one simple timeline: employment start date, key conversations, warnings, meetings, termination date and any payment made.
- Collect the signed contract, policies, payslips, attendance records, messages and meeting notes that relate to the matter.
- Get labour-law advice promptly, especially for a dismissal, discrimination, retrenchment, whistleblowing claim or complicated facts.
About deadlines
Deadlines differ by dispute type. For example, an alleged unfair-dismissal referral is generally made within 30 days, while other claims can have different time limits. Do not calculate a deadline from this page—read your CCMA notice and check the current CCMA rules. Late referrals may need condonation.
What ProperSA can help prepare
Our Employer Protection Pack provides a chronology template, evidence checklist, workplace process documents and a CCMA preparation checklist. It is designed to help you organise your file; it is not representation and does not guarantee a result.
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