NEGOTIATIONS, MEDIATION AND ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Collective Agreement Administration and Bargaining

Understanding the employer’s legal obligations as well as its human resource needs and realities is vital when interpreting and managing collective agreement issues.

Collective bargaining is both an art and a science. We regularly advise clients in regard to negotiating strategies, drafting proposals and acting either as spokespersons at the bargaining table or in the background as advisors. We assist with effective communications strategies and ensuring that thorough contingency plans are implemented. We also help manage strike/lockout issues if negotiations falter. If necessary, we obtain cease and desist orders or injunctions to address unlawful disruptions in the workplace.

We also have extensive experience preparing briefs and advocating on behalf of employers before interest arbitration panels where strikes are prohibited by statute.

Grievances/Mediations/Arbitrations

We assist unionized employers at all stages of the grievance, mediation and arbitration process. Strategies are developed with clients during the grievance and mediation process to manage risk and optimize results.

Employment Law Disputes

We regularly utilize mediation and alternative dispute resolution to address wrongful dismissal, restrictive covenant, health and safety and human rights disputes. Our experience provides clients with an opportunity to minimize litigation costs in appropriate cases and enables us to negotiate settlements consistent with our client’s objectives.