Labor Arbitration
Labor arbitration plays an essential role in collective bargaining by providing employers and unions with a fair, efficient, and final means of resolving disputes arising under their collective bargaining agreement. As a neutral selected by the parties, the arbitrator's responsibility is to interpret and apply the agreement based on the evidence presented and the governing principles of labor arbitration.
Ryan S. Johnson, Ph.D., serves as a labor arbitrator in disputes arising under collective bargaining agreements in both the private and federal sectors. He is available for appointments nationwide and conducts hearings in person and virtually.
Labor arbitration reflects the parties' agreement to submit their dispute to a neutral decision maker rather than the courts. Ryan recognizes the significance of that responsibility and approaches every appointment with independence, impartiality, and respect for the parties' collective bargaining relationship.
Areas of Practice
Ryan is available to hear a broad range of labor arbitration matters
Areas of arbitration include:
Discipline and discharge
Contract interpretation
Overtime and premium pay disputes
Seniority disputes
Scheduling and assignment issues
Workplace rules and policies
Arbitrability
Federal sector labor disputes
Interest arbitration
Other disputes arising under collective bargaining agreements
If you have questions regarding a particular matter, you are welcome to contact Ryan to discuss whether it is appropriate for arbitration.
The Role of the Arbitrator
Labor arbitration depends upon the confidence of both parties in the neutrality and independence of the arbitrator. Ryan approaches every appointment with the understanding that his role is not to advocate for either side, but to provide a fair hearing, carefully evaluate the evidence, and apply the parties' collective bargaining agreement to the dispute before him.
Each case presents its own factual record, contractual language, and workplace context. Ryan strives to give every matter the individual attention it deserves while ensuring that both parties have a full and fair opportunity to present their positions.
A Thoughtful and Disciplined Approach
Ryan's background in labor economics, university teaching, and years of preparation in labor arbitration has shaped an approach grounded in careful analysis, organization, and respect for the parties.
He believes that effective arbitration requires thoughtful preparation, attentive listening, objective evaluation of the record, and clear written decisions. His goal is to provide parties with a process that is professional, efficient, and focused on the issues submitted for decision.
Appointments
Parties are invited to contact Ryan regarding potential appointments, scheduling, or arbitration-related inquiries