On 7 November 2019, new provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure will come into force that introduce significant changes to the rules on conducting proceedings before labour courts.

One of the most important changes is giving dismissed employees an opportunity to return to work after a favourable, non-final judgement of the court of first instance (i.e. a judgement that can be appealed against in the court of second instance). The change is important for employers that are involved in court disputes with dismissed employees because they may be obliged to reinstate them to work before the proceedings are finally settled – which may be connected with some additional costs. At the same time, reinstatement to work will be still not obligatory and will be only applicable if a dismissed employee requests it.

Importantly, new rules will also apply to court cases that were initiated before the new provisions entered into force.