CPR Represents Union Members

Union members may encounter legal issues involving workplace injuries, occupational disease from hazardous exposure, denied benefits, retaliation, or disputes over pension and disability claims. The right legal path depends on the specific issue and whether it falls under workers’ compensation, a third-party claim, or another area of law.

Yes. Union members generally have the same right to pursue compensation for workplace injuries as other employees, whether through workers’ compensation or, in some cases, a claim against a third party such as an equipment manufacturer.

Many union members, particularly in trades like construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding, were historically exposed to asbestos and other hazardous materials on the job. If you developed an illness linked to that exposure, you may have a claim separate from workers’ compensation.

Your union can provide support and resources, but legal claims for injury or illness typically require a personal injury attorney to pursue compensation, especially when the claim is against a third party rather than your employer.

Compensation may include medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering, depending on whether your claim is handled through workers’ compensation or a separate legal claim. In cases involving a death, surviving family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim.

Claims related to workplace injury or illness are subject to a statute of limitations, the legal deadline for filing a claim. This deadline varies by state and by the type of claim, and for occupational diseases like those linked to asbestos exposure, it’s often based on when the illness was diagnosed rather than when exposure occurred. Because deadlines differ, it’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.

Most attorneys handling these types of claims work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay upfront and only owe attorney fees if your case results in compensation.