Assistance in individual & collective negotiations

Preparation is key to any successful negotiation. We help you develop a clear and focused strategy that ensures your union’s position is as strong as possible from the outset.

• Legal argument development: We craft detailed legal arguments to support your bargaining position, ensuring that your demands are backed by sound legal principles.
• Anticipating employer tactics: We analyse the likely counter-arguments and tactics employers may use, helping you stay one step ahead throughout the process.
• Tailored advice: Every union and workforce is unique. We work with you to understand the specific needs of your members and ensure that your strategy reflects their interests.

One of the core functions of collective bargaining is defending the rights of workers. Whether you’re negotiating for better terms or holding on to existing conditions, we make sure your members’ legal rights are safeguarded throughout the process.

• Defending existing agreements: If employers attempt to roll back terms and conditions already secured, we provide robust legal arguments to prevent any erosion of your members’ rights.
• Securing new benefits: We help unions negotiate for improved conditions, including higher wages, better benefits, and safer working environments, while ensuring that any new agreements are legally enforceable.
• Ensuring compliance: Employers are legally required to negotiate in good faith. We ensure that your employer follows the rules, and if necessary, take legal action to enforce compliance.

Effective engagement with employers is often one of the most challenging aspects of collective bargaining. Whether you’re negotiating directly with company leadership or dealing with an impasse, our solicitors are here to guide you through every stage of the process.

• Managing difficult discussions: If negotiations become heated or stall, we provide calm, experienced legal advice to help you navigate these situations without losing momentum.
• Breaking deadlocks: In the event of an impasse, we offer creative solutions to move discussions forward, including mediation or other dispute resolution methods where appropriate.
• Drafting agreements: Once an agreement has been reached, we ensure that the terms are clearly set out in writing, protecting your union members from any future disputes or misunderstandings with the employer.

Every negotiation brings its own unique set of challenges. At Anthony Gold, we understand that a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work when it comes to collective bargaining. That’s why we tailor our legal support to the specific needs of your union and its members, ensuring you’re well-equipped to achieve the best possible outcomes in every negotiation.

Recognised by respected legal directories such as Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners, our solicitors are trusted experts with a strong history of success in employment law.

Your case will be handled by Joy Drummond, one of the foremost solicitors in employment and industrial law. With over 40 years of experience advising and representing trade unions and employees, Joy brings a wealth of knowledge to every case. She has acted on behalf of trade union-backed claimants, representing them in individual and collective claims that have led to landmark decisions in areas such as:

• Discrimination

• Equal pay

• Holiday pay

Joy’s experience spans complex issues in employment law, industrial relations, and trade union constitutional matters, making her an invaluable resource during collective bargaining and worker disputes. Her legal guidance is always grounded in practical solutions, ensuring that unions and their members receive advice they can trust and act upon with confidence.

Union representatives frequently encounter complicated legal situations during collective bargaining and workplace disputes. Our solicitors provide clear, actionable advice to help you handle these situations with confidence.

When negotiations hit a roadblock, it can feel like progress has stalled. We offer legal strategies to help your union break through these impasses, whether that means escalating the issue, seeking mediation, or exploring alternative legal options. Our goal is to keep negotiations moving forward while maintaining a strong position for your union.

Workplace disputes, whether they involve a group grievance or an individual complaint, can disrupt the harmony of a unionised workforce. Our solicitors provide practical solutions for resolving disputes quickly and effectively. From early-stage advice to formal mediation or representation at a tribunal, we ensure that your union members’ rights are protected and that disputes are resolved in their favour.

Staying on the right side of employment law is essential for unions. We help union representatives ensure that their actions, and the actions of their members, are fully compliant with the latest legal requirements. This protection not only safeguards your members but also helps to maintain the integrity and reputation of the union as a whole.

Before entering negotiations, it’s crucial to understand the legal playing field. Our solicitors thoroughly review the laws, regulations, and precedents that apply to your situation. This enables us to identify potential opportunities that could give your union an edge, as well as any legal challenges that could arise.

Your union’s bargaining power is often determined by the legal rights of its members. We ensure that your representatives are fully informed about all legal entitlements, from employment law protections to statutory rights. This knowledge empowers your union to make strong, well-founded demands during negotiations.

The success of a negotiation doesn’t end when terms are agreed upon—it’s about ensuring those terms are legally sound and enforceable. We assist with the drafting and review of agreements to secure the most favourable terms for your members. Our focus is always on clarity and enforceability, ensuring there are no loopholes or ambiguities that could lead to future disputes.