Labor and Employment

We provide a full panoply of labor and employment services for our municipal clients in connection with both unionized and non-unionized employees. This includes advice on the legal methods of union avoidance when employees are unrepresented, and assisting employers in conducting election campaigns under the auspices of the Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) when a question concerning representation arises.

We handle the entire spectrum of PERB proceedings, including all representation, unit clarification and improper practice proceedings, as well as requests for injunctive relief.

Our attorneys have negotiated collective bargaining agreements for counties, villages, school districts, and towns since the inception of the Taylor Law. We advise clients from the first formulation of their negotiating proposals, through negotiations and, if necessary, mediation, fact-finding, and interest arbitration. We are skilled in all facets of the contract arbitration process when issues involving contract interpretation arise.

We handle all types of disciplinary proceedings for municipalities, including disciplinary arbitrations, Civil Service Law section 75 proceedings, and Education Law section 3020‑a proceedings. We help our clients from the outset of the investigatory process, through witness preparation, the selection of appropriate arbitrators, trial, and post-hearing briefs.

We have special experience with negotiations for police and fire departments, and the special legal issues which concern them, including administering claims and procedures under sections 207-a and 207-c of the General Municipal Law.