Collyer Doctrine: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition

Definition & Meaning

The Collyer Doctrine is a principle in labor law that allows the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to refer disputes to arbitration if those disputes can be resolved under the terms of a collective bargaining agreement. This doctrine is named after the case Collyer Insulated Wire, 192 N.L.R.B. 837 (N.L.R.B. 1971), which established the standard for such referrals. Essentially, it encourages the resolution of labor disputes through arbitration rather than through direct intervention by the NLRB, promoting adherence to agreed-upon terms between employers and unions.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A union representing factory workers raises a grievance regarding overtime pay. The employer and union have a collective bargaining agreement that includes an arbitration clause. The NLRB may refer the issue to arbitration under the Collyer Doctrine.

Example 2: A dispute arises over the interpretation of a safety regulation in a union contract. Since the contract provides for arbitration, the NLRB can direct the parties to resolve the matter through the agreed-upon arbitration process. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Arbitration A method of resolving disputes outside of court. Arbitration can occur independently of the Collyer Doctrine, but the doctrine specifically refers disputes under collective agreements to arbitration.
Mediation A process where a neutral third party helps resolve a dispute. Mediation is non-binding, while arbitration under the Collyer Doctrine is binding if agreed upon in the collective bargaining agreement.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself involved in a labor dispute covered by a collective bargaining agreement, consider the following steps:

  • Review your collective bargaining agreement to understand the arbitration process.
  • Gather relevant documentation related to the dispute.
  • Consult with a legal professional if you need assistance navigating the arbitration process.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you draft necessary documents for arbitration.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Jurisdiction National Labor Relations Board
Typical Fees Varies based on arbitration agreements
Possible Outcomes Binding arbitration decisions

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The Collyer Doctrine is a principle that allows the NLRB to refer disputes to arbitration if they can be resolved under a collective bargaining agreement.