Labor unions often benefit from legal representation. The reasons why are numerous. Legal representation is not merely beneficial—it is often essential for effectively managing a union’s operations and advocating for its members
Our Boston labor and employment law firm has helped many unions with their legal needs. We’re committed to protecting union rights and holding employers accountable if they act unlawfully. Here are some of the ways we do that.
Legal Representation During Collective Bargaining
Legal representation is crucial during the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements with employers. Lawyers help ensure that the union’s proposals are legally sound and enforceable and that the final agreements comply with labor laws.
Some of the items we might address during collective bargaining talks include:
Wages and Benefits
A union can raise the level of wages of their members through strong negotiations with the employer. Many employers unfairly pay workers less than they could for their labor compared to what the market can bear. A labor lawyer can help make wages more fair.
Unions may also seek better healthcare plans, retirement packages, paid time off policies, and other valuable benefits through collective bargaining. A lawyer can also enforce negotiated increases to wages and benefits.
Addressing Worker Complaints
Another reason workers unionize is when they feel unheard by their employer. Hiring a lawyer to represent your labor union can help them apply legal pressure to force the employer to listen to your concerns if the employer is not handling complaints promptly.
For instance, poor working conditions and safety concerns must be addressed before a worker gets hurt. A bad employer may think workers’ compensation covers any injury and ignore worker concerns because they would lower productivity. We can work to convince them otherwise before someone gets hurt.
For a free legal consultation, call (860) 999-9394
Regulatory Compliance
Unions must adhere to a complex web of federal and state labor laws, including those related to union elections, financial disclosures, and the rights of members. Labor lawyers can assist unions in navigating these regulations to avoid potential legal pitfalls.
Labor lawyers stay up-to-date on evolving rules and interpretations that can impact collective bargaining, strikes, and contributions to political causes. They can give guidance on record-keeping, properly structuring leadership elections and votes, preventing corruption or misuse of member dues, and related oversight functions.
Dispute Resolution
Unions frequently deal with disputes that can arise from grievances of union members against employers or internal union matters. Lawyers can represent the union in arbitration proceedings and before labor boards, being knowledgeable in labor law that is critical for effective advocacy.
Labor attorneys also play an important advisory role in helping unions avoid issues that could lead to a grievance. By reviewing agreements, member policies and procedures, investigating problems, and suggesting preventative measures, lawyers assist unions in resolving disputes before they become legal matters.
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Litigation
While avoiding litigation whenever possible is typically preferable, unions must be prepared to defend their legitimacy and conduct in a court of law if necessary. Having experienced counsel well-versed in labor litigation tactics gives unions confidence to stand up for the rights of their members.
Labor attorneys stay up-to-date on relevant case law that can influence arguments for jurisdictional disputes, duty of fair representation claims, or constitutional issues. They also litigate proactively on behalf of unions by filing strategic unfair labor practice charges with the National Labor Relations Board when employers overstep legal boundaries.
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Legislative Advocacy for Labor Unions
Unions often participate in legislative advocacy to influence laws that impact labor and employment conditions. Legal experts can help draft proposals, interpret the potential impacts of legislative changes, and advise on advocacy strategies.
Attorneys also draft testimony, comments, and educational materials about pending bills to influence key decision-makers. If new labor laws pass, counsel can help unions interpret requirements and take appropriate compliance steps.
They also research tactics used by other advocacy groups to ensure unions employ the most effective lobbying methods. All of this strengthens a union’s voice within the political process and better serves the union’s long-term goal of improving workers’ lives.
Enhancing Public Relations
Labor lawyers often assist unions in managing their public image and relations, especially during strikes or disputes that attract public and media attention. They can help craft messages that resonate with the public and align with legal strategies to enhance the union’s position in the public eye and gain broader support for their causes.
Conclusion
While the day-to-day operations of a labor union can be managed without legal input, the strategic advantages of having dedicated legal representation are invaluable. Legal expertise not only helps in managing current issues but also in strategically planning for future challenges.
Need Legal Help?
If your union requires legal representation or you’re seeking guidance on labor-related issues, consider reaching out to our firm, Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard. We offer a free consultation to discuss how we can support your union’s needs and enhance your ability to serve your members effectively.
Call or text (860) 999-9394 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form