Union Rights and Collective Bargaining: Protecting the Power of Organized Workers

Congruence Law, P.C. Represents Union Members and Employees Exercising Their Right to Organize

Union membership and collective action are protected by law—but not always respected by employers. Whether you’re a union member filing a grievance or a non-union employee organizing for better conditions, your right to act collectively is safeguarded by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) and state labor laws. At Congruence Law, P.C., we advocate for workers involved in labor disputes, unfair labor practices, and collective bargaining matters.

We stand with employees defending their voices in the workplace—because no one should face retaliation for standing together.

What Rights Do Employees Have Under the NLRA?

The NLRA protects most private-sector employees, union or not, in engaging in protected concerted activity, including:

➤ Forming or Joining a Union

You have the right to organize, support, or join a union without interference, coercion, or retaliation.

➤ Collective Bargaining

Employees are entitled to negotiate wages, hours, and working conditions through representatives of their choosing.

➤ Filing and Pursuing Grievances

Union members can assert their rights under collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), including grievance and arbitration procedures.

➤ Engaging in Concerted Activity

Even in non-union settings, employees have the right to discuss and act collectively on workplace conditions.

Unfair Labor Practices (ULPs)

It is unlawful for employers—or unions—to engage in conduct that interferes with these rights. Common ULPs include:

• Retaliating against union supporters or organizers

• Refusing to bargain in good faith with a union

• Discriminating in hiring, promotions, or discipline due to union activity

• Interrogating, threatening, or surveilling employees for organizing

• Violating grievance or arbitration procedures in union contracts

We help file charges with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and pursue legal remedies when these rights are violated.

What We Do at Congruence Law, P.C.

We assist workers and unions in a wide range of labor matters:

• Grievance representation and arbitration for union members

• Unfair labor practice charge preparation and filing

• Legal counsel during union elections and organizing campaigns

• Negotiation and enforcement of collective bargaining agreements

• Defense against retaliatory termination or discipline related to union activity

We also advise employee groups navigating "micro-union" efforts, labor board procedures, and employer resistance.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Assuming Non-Union Workers Have No Rights. You don’t need a union card to be protected by labor law. Concerted action—even informal—can be legally protected.

Failing to Document Retaliation. Keep notes, emails, and witness names if you suspect you’re being punished for labor organizing.

Letting Contractual Grievance Timelines Expire. CBAs often contain short deadlines for filing grievances. Act quickly and get legal advice early.

Why Choose Congruence Law, P.C.

We understand labor law because we respect the labor movement. We advocate for workers from organizing to arbitration—and we don’t back down from employers who break the rules.

If you’re facing retaliation or need help enforcing union rights, contact us today: employment@congruencelaw.com or at 202-630-8141.

Collective power is protected power. We’re here to help you protect it.