How far do cases go? Resolution in industrial tribunal applications

Drawing on theoretical developments in the arbitration literature, and in p articular the concepts of 'error' and 'intent', this paper uses data from t he 1992 Survey of Industrial Tribunal Applications to identify the factors associated with the stage at which resolution of individual employment disp utes occurs. Resolution at 'conciliation' is primarily determined by applic ants' characteristics (most notably gender) and by case jurisdiction, whils t subsequent 'pre-tribunal' resolution is driven largely by employer and ca se characteristics. The results are consistent with an error/intent interpr etation. ACAS intervention appears to promote 'settlement' but does not enh ance the overall resolution rate.