November 03, 2026
2pm - 5pm (GMT)
Virtual
Based on the Napoleonic code and amended by statute ever since, French employment law is markedly different from the UK’s.
Led by French employment lawyers with extensive experience advising International and in particular UK clients, this introductory course will provide an overview of French employment law, highlighting key areas and giving you practical insights.
Delegates will gain an insight into
- Practical guidance on main issues of employment in France
- Overview of key employment issues from recruitment to termination
- Introduction to dealing with staff representation
- Insight into cultural differences between France and the UK
- Cultural awareness issues in business will be addressed throughout the day.
Programme
Please note that this course programme will run over two days (2 x 3 hour course sessions).
- Day 1 - 3 November 2026
- Day 2 - 5 November 2026
Day 1
2pm start; 5pm close (UK time)
Introduction, overview of employment law framework
- hierarchy
- key players
Collective work relationships
- employee representation
- social and economic committee
- works councils
- CSE
- trade union representatives
- special protection of employee representatives and sanctions
Hiring in France
- background checks
- recruitment
- employment offers
- types of employment contracts
- probationary periods
- non compete covenants
- salary requirements
Day 2
2pm start; 5pm close (UK time)
Working time regulations
- executive vs non-executive
- working time in days
- RTT days
- mandatory meetings
- tracking working time
- manager responsibilities
Modification of the employment contract vs change of working conditions
Managing leave
- annual leave
- maternity leave
- paternity rights
- sick leave
Termination of the employment contract
- protected employees
- termination process
- discipline and performance
- redundancy
- sexual harassment
Employment litigation
- Labour court organisation
- cap on damages for unfair dismissal
Please note that a comfort break will be provided approximately half-way through each session.
Who should attend
This French employment law virtual training course is relevant to international HR managers and directors with responsibility for employees in France. It will also be useful to managers and directors who anticipate entering the French market and who need to be aware of their responsibilities to their people. A prior knowledge of French employment law is not required to attend this course.