An online legal resource for HR professionals, which enables users to create their own legally-compliant documents, has been launched in the UK.

Using www.cleardocs.co.uk will allows employers and HR departments to create ready-to-print-and-sign employment documents, such as contracts and staff handbooks, from their PC which, the creators say, will reduce the costs normally associated with legal compliance by up to 50%. The software will also enable the user to produce these documents in minutes, making the service extremely quick.

The Cleardocs software is based on plain English principles, to reduce the complexity of legal documentation. There is also a free legal helpline manned by employment experts from law firm Ashfords.

Founder of the service is former lawyer Christopher Balmford. “Our mission with www.cleardocs.co.uk is to remove the complexity and confusion of legal compliance and provide an easy, cost-effective and flexible way for employers to comply with the law. The service protects them against liability, ensures their employees are aware of their rights and obligations and gives direct access to top flight legal expertise.”

Charles Pallot, employment partner at Ashfords, said that this is an excellent example where innovative technology delivers tangible benefits to employers. “Ninety per cent of the documents small to medium businesses need, in order to meet current employment legislation, are available through Cleardocs. For those situations where someone requires additional guidance on legal matters we are on hand at the end of the phone, or in person if that is what is needed.”

Customers of the service are also kept up-to-date with changes in the law through automatic email alerts outlining changes and any subsequent responsibilities.

For more information visit www.cleardocs.co.uk or call 01256 338403.