Just Cause

Just cause is the keystone of the union contract, protecting members from unwarranted and excessive discipline. But up to now many of its most important secrets have been restricted to arbitrators and labor professionals.

In Just Cause: A Union Guide to Winning Discipline Cases, veteran labor lawyer Robert M. Schwartz—best-selling author of The Legal Rights of Union Stewards—offers a step-by-step guide filled with advice, practical tips, and winning techniques. Grievance representatives can use these methods to compose compelling arguments. Many unions use Just Cause every day to save workers’ jobs and build solidarity.

Topics covered include: Requesting information; Due process; Double jeopardy; Disparate treatment; Hearsay; Zero-tolerance rules; Last chance agreements; Off-duty misconduct; Negligence; Sexual harassment; Sleeping on the job; Dishonesty; and Presenting grievances.

Third edition published September 2024.

$20.00

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Buy in Bulk 

Many unions buy Just Cause and other books by Robert M. Schwartz for all their stewards. For details on discounts from 10 to 25 percent, click here. Email alex[at]labornotes[dot]org or call 718-284-4144 with any questions.

Praise 

“An instant labor classic—Just Cause belongs in every steward’s toolbox.”
—LARRY HANLEY, International President, Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU)

"In Just Cause, Robert Schwartz has set out to help stewards and union advocates successfully challenge workplace penalties assessed under negotiated disciplinary procedures. He does so in the direct and accessible style that characterizes all his handbooks. As such, it is a welcome addition to the literature written for grievance advocates."
—ROBERT WECHSLER, Labor Studies Journal

"I have every book by Robert Schwartz. Every shop steward needs these books in their daily fight for justice on the shop floor!"
—ANDY WOOD, District 2 Committee person, UAW Local 5285

Publisher: 
Work Rights Press