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Union Organizing Drives

A union organizing drive occurs before an employer has received an application for certification. In most industries other than the construction industry, the certification process involves three general steps in Ontario being (1) the organizing drive, (2) the application for certification and (3) the certification vote.

The first stage, the organizing drive, is normally undertaken by unions in an undisclosed manner. During this stage, the unions will often attempt to measure the employees’ interest. To do so, the union organizing campaign/drive usually involves the signing up of employees as union members through filling out union cards.

Union organizing

The organizing drive step is an important one for unions, and many times it occurs without the awareness of the employer. This step, many times, can last for months or in some cases even longer.

How the union and the employer approach a union organizing drive and certification process is very important, as there are restrictions on the types of actions that can be taken.

For example, an employer who responds too forcefully may then face unfair labour practice complaints or remedial certification. Employers have to be careful to avoid conduct that can amount to intimidation, threats or spying.

Employers are not without a right to voice their opinion. However, the line between lawful and unlawful conduct is thin, and care should be taken not to overstep the boundaries of permissible employer conduct.

In Ontario, failure to abide by the strict requirements of the law may result in the Labour Relation Board’s intervention and the certification of a union even in the absence of a certification vote.

How can Zeilikman Law help?

With a depth of knowledge, our experienced labour lawyers can guide you through the process of a union organizing drive and ensure that you are ready for the next step of the certification process.  If necessary, we will represent you before legal proceedings in the event of a controversy or a dispute.

Request a consultation or call us at 905-417-2227 to learn more!

Legal Receptionist

Zeilikman Law is an employment law firm located in Vaughan, Ontario. We are looking to hire a legal receptionist to join our firm. Preference will be given to candidates who have experience working as a receptionist at another law firm.

Location: Vaughan, Ontario.

Start Date: Immediately.

Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Full time. In-person only. This is not a remote work position.

Wages: 35,000 to 40,000 per year.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Manage our firm’s multi-line telephone system to receive incoming calls.  Screen incoming telephone call inquiries to determine the nature of the telephone call and provide standard information related to our legal services.  Take and deliver messages and route incoming telephone calls to the appropriate staff person.
  • Answer general inquiries coming from the firm’s social media and website email.
  • Welcome in-person visitors upon arrival.  Direct visitors to the appropriate staff person and / or office or boardroom.
  • Organize in-person visitor schedule to prevent overlap and multiple bookings.
  • Receive, sort, and distribute daily mail and deliveries.
  • Arrange for couriers.
  • Keep front reception, kitchenette area and boardroom tidy.
  • Perform various clerical duties such as filing, photocopying, and faxing on an as-needed basis.
  • Process client or other payments.
  • May be asked to run minor errands outside of office such as attending post office to arrange a courier or pick up mail.
  • May be asked to assist other law clerks or lawyers of the firm as required and as appropriate.
  • Any other basic administrative duties or tasks as deemed appropriate.

Required Skills:

  • Basic knowledge of general office procedures including filing, faxing, and printing and copying.
  • Basic word processing computer skills.
  • Proficient in receptionist and telephone practices, etiquette, and decorum.
  • Professional attitude and appearance.
  • Excellent organizational skills.
  • Positive customer service attitude is a must.
  • Must be able to maintain confidential and sensitive information.

Education and Experience:

  • Highschool diploma or equivalent.
  • 1 – 2 years’ experience in an office setting with an emphasis in accounting, reception or clerical work is required.   We would prefer experience in a law firm environment.

Applications for this position should be sent via email to jennifer@zeilikmanlaw.com. All applications should include a cover letter, resume and at least two references. Only successful candidates will be contacted.