Champions Of Labor For More Than 40 Years

Collective Bargaining Negotiation Representation

The labor law attorneys of Pitta LLP negotiate collective bargaining agreements for public sector and private sector unions in New York and New Jersey. Our clients include local and international unions in virtually every industry and profession.

We have extensive knowledge of the various laws governing collective bargaining, including the National Labor Relations Act, Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act, and Public Employees’ Fair Employment Act (the Taylor Law).

Fighting On Behalf Of Union Members

For more than 40 years, the New York City labor lawyers of Pitta LLP have been fighting to protect the rights and benefits of union members. We understand the nuances of collective bargaining negotiations, and our many union clients turn to us to negotiate the best possible terms of employment, including matters of pay, hours, health care, leave, pensions, workplace health and safety policies, and the best ways to balance work and family life.

Our attorneys also handle dispute resolution relating to collective bargaining agreements. We represent union clients in grievance arbitration proceedings, before the National Labor Relations Board and in unfair labor practice proceedings. At the state level, we represent unions before the Public Employee Relations Board, as well as entities covered by the New York State Employment Relations Act.

Our Collective Bargaining Services

At Pitta LLP, we provide comprehensive support during collective bargaining negotiations. Our services focus on ensuring that union members receive fair and just terms in their employment contracts. Below are the specific services we offer:

Negotiation services: We actively engage in negotiation sessions with employers, striving to secure favorable terms that address the needs and rights of union members.
Mediation services: We facilitate mediation processes to resolve disputes and reach consensus without the need for arbitration.
Arbitration representation: When disputes escalate, we represent unions in arbitration, ensuring their voices are heard and interests defended.
Representation before labor boards: During the collective bargaining process, we represent unions before various labor boards, ensuring that legal standards are upheld and workers’ rights are protected.
Contract drafting: We draft clear and enforceable collective bargaining agreements that cover all aspects of employment terms.

Our commitment is to deliver thorough and passionate representation in all aspects of collective bargaining.

Standing Up For Labor Rights

We are fully aware that certain legislatures and governorships in the United States have made it their mission to attack collective bargaining rights, and we are at the forefront of the fight to ensure the strength and advancement of unions in the face of the opposition.

To achieve our mission and better serve our clients, our firm maintains a close affiliation with Bishop & Del Giorno LLC, a government relations/consulting firm that provides a variety of services related to lobbying and legislative representation.

While we represent specific unions, we consider our work as representing labor as a whole. Our attorneys have a deep connection to labor. Our attorneys believe in labor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Collective Bargaining

Here are basic answers to some frequently asked questions about collective bargaining.

What is collective bargaining, and why is it important?

Collective bargaining is the process by which labor unions and employers negotiate terms of employment. It is crucial because it allows workers to have a collective voice when discussing wages, benefits, working conditions and other employment terms. This process helps ensure that workers are treated fairly and can lead to more productive and satisfied employees.

How do collective bargaining negotiations typically proceed?

Collective bargaining negotiations typically begin with the union presenting its demands or proposals to the employer. Both parties then engage in discussions and negotiations to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. These negotiations may involve several rounds of back-and-forth discussions and could require the use of mediation or arbitration to resolve any disputes that arise.

What are some common challenges faced during collective bargaining?

Common challenges during collective bargaining include disagreements over wages, health benefits, job security and working conditions. External factors such as economic conditions and industry trends can also impact negotiations. Overcoming these challenges requires thorough preparation, clear communication and sometimes third-party mediation.

What legal protections exist for union members during negotiations?

Union members are protected under various federal and state laws during collective bargaining negotiations. These laws include the National Labor Relations Act, which protects the right to organize and bargain collectively. Additionally, state-specific laws, such as the New York State Employment Relations Act, provide further protections. These laws ensure that the negotiation process is fair and that the parties’ rights are protected.