The IAFF provides legal support to affiliates in certain employment-related matters involving professional fire fighters and emergency medical workers.
Legal assistance is governed by IAFF policy and reserved for specific circumstances in which broader union interests are involved.
Start with your Local
Most employment-related matters are handled at the Local level, including:
-
Discipline or termination
-
Grievances
-
Contract enforcement
-
Collective bargaining disputes
-
Workplace representation issues
Your Local leadership is responsible for representing members directly with the employer.
When the IAFF may provide legal assistance
In limited and appropriate circumstances, the IAFF may provide legal assistance where:
-
A matter has significance beyond a single affiliate
-
Specialized legal expertise is required
-
A case may establish meaningful precedent
-
A Local seeks a second legal opinion in a significant matter
Legal assistance is not automatic. Each request is evaluated individually under IAFF policy.
How to request legal assistance
All requests for IAFF legal assistance must originate with the appropriate District Vice President. The DVP will forward the request for further review, if appropriate
Because funding for legal services is limited, each request is evaluated for fairness, appropriateness, and broader union impact.
If assistance is approved, coordination will occur through established IAFF channels.
Important
The provision of legal assistance is not intended to apply every time an affiliate is involved in legal action. It is reserved for unique and significant matters consistent with IAFF policy.
The IAFF does not provide personal legal services unrelated to employment as a fire fighter or emergency medical worker.
Questions?
If you believe a matter may qualify for IAFF legal assistance, contact your District Vice President first.