Employers in unionized industries such as construction, healthcare, the public sector, agriculture, and retail stores, need a labor lawyer to guide them. When disputes arise, it's crucial that legal representatives are there to offer advice. Laws are changing constantly, so it's advantageous to have counsel when crises occur. It's extremely helpful to have knowledgeable backup when it comes to dealing with unions, handling disputes over contracts, and negotiating grievances. Unions As an employer, you need to understand unions, benefits, and fair wages. If your industry is unionized, it's helpful to have a labor lawyer to represent you during negotiations, collective bargaining, and communicating in an appropriate manner. You can also learn about the option of operating a union-free jobsite, or decertification, if the situation arises. If negotiations break down and a strike appears imminent, it's crucial to have legal advice in order to keep your company moving ahead. Handling Disputes When disputes arise over a contract, the situation can become complicated. Whether the disagreements are about the wording in a contract, or the legalities in general, it often takes the skill of an experienced labor lawyer to sort it out. If a dispute appears to be leading to a walkout with workers lining up outside your facility carrying picket signs, you need a strategy in order to handle the problem and reach a satisfactory resolution. Negotiating Grievances If a worker files a grievance, you need legal advice on how to negotiate a positive outcome. An arbitration or mediation may need to be held in order to resolve the problems without going to court. Your labor lawyer will interview witnesses, gather evidence, and make an assessment. Based on his or her findings, the best next steps can be determined to resolve the issue at hand. Even if you're not facing a current strike or grievance problem, you should find a law firm to become your resource for dealing with employee related issues. You'll want one that specializes in company/worker legalities. Get word-of-mouth referrals from others in your industry before interviewing potential attorneys. You'll be able to run your business from a source of strength when you know you have knowledgeable professionals backing you up. Whether you own a grocery store, a nursing home, or a plumbing business, there will probably come a time when you'll need guidance from a skilled labor lawyer. Establish a business relationship with a legal representative and you'll be able to call them in when and if the time comes. Do you need to consult with a labor lawyer? Portland, Oregon residents can meet with an attorney from Bullard Law. For more information, visit: http://bullardlaw.com.
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