Representation

As a general rule, you have the right to have a union member attend a meeting with a supervisor under 2 main circumstances.

The first case is in any meeting in which the conditions of work are discussed.  Usually these meetings are group meetings in which entire functional groups are participating.  Since such conditions are bargained, a supervisor may not arbitrarily mandate any changes without engaging the union.  Thus, union officials have the right to attend discussions on the conditions of work to ensure compliance with law and the contract.

The second case is in investigatory interviews.  As an employee in a unionized office, you have the right to have a union representative in any discussions with a manager which you reasonably believe that could result in any form of punishment or discipline.  These rights are know as Weingarten Rights.  Do not assume you or even your supervisor necessarily even know the law or rules.   By having a union representative present, you will have access to:

• A resource familiar with applicable laws and the CBA
• A witness in case the discussions lead to something more serious

The union representative is not a lawyer, but neither is your supervisor.  A representative will at least level the playing field in such a discussion and help guide you on your options after the discussions have ended.

The Union’s mission is to help employees, far to many employees don’t understand this until it is too late.