Fletcher & Sippel has counseled and litigated in virtually every aspect of railroad and rail-related employment matters. Naturally, we have a robust understanding of the unique procedures and requirements of the Railway Labor Act. We have assisted clients at every level of the labor dispute process. We regularly advise clients in connection with unionization drives and operational changes. We have implemented and responded to self-help (including lockouts and strikes), and have enjoined strikes, arbitrated and litigated labor disputes ranging from simple discipline cases to multi- faceted million dollar work rule disputes, and then litigated the validity of the resulting arbitration awards. Additionally, we have counseled on organizational changes with multi-million dollar claims for labor protection against individuals, classes, and unions. We have litigated employment discrimination and related retaliation claims of all kinds, including several FRSA/OSHA whistle-blower complaints. We have also litigated and arbitrated claims for labor protection against individuals and unions. .
Our unique experience of having several former in-house attorneys gives Fletcher & Sippel an unparalleled understanding of management’s perspectives and goals in labor and employment matters. We apply that understanding in negotiating labor contracts and developing realistic personnel policies that comply with the web of interconnected labor and employment laws. We are also unique in our ability to provide our clients with the benefit of an extensive personal network of governmental officials, labor union leaders, railroad negotiators and other key players in the rail and rail-related industry.
