The federal Department of Labor has launched a new “Bridge to Justice” program that connects workers with legal beefs to local attorney referral networks. The program launches today. In the words of the DOL:
When it is difficult for workers to pursue redress for denied rights,
it makes it easier for those employers who exploit their workers to
obtain an unfair competitive advantage, which denies law-abiding
employers a level playing field.
Thanks to an unprecedented collaboration between the Wage and Hour
Division and the American Bar Association Standing Committee on Lawyer
Referral and Information Service (ABA LRIS), the Wage and Hour Division
will now connect these workers to a local referral service that will, in
turn, provide the workers with access to attorneys who may be able to
help. This collaboration will both provide workers a better opportunity
to seek redress for FLSA and FMLA violations and help level the playing
field for employers who want to do the right thing.
When FLSA or FMLA complainants are
informed that the Wage and Hour Division is declining to pursue their
complaints, they may also be given a toll-free number to contact the
newly created ABA-Approved Attorney Referral System. If complainants
choose to call the toll-free number, they will be advised of the
ABA-approved LRIS providers in their area. The complainant may then
contact the provider and determine whether to retain a qualified
private-sector lawyer.
In addition, when the Wage and Hour Division has conducted an
investigation, the complainant will now be provided information about
the Wage and Hour Division’s determination regarding violations at issue
and back wages owed. This information will be given to the
complainants in the same letter informing them that the Wage and Hour
Division will not be pursuing further action, and will be very useful
for attorneys who may take the case. The Wage and Hour Division has
also developed a special process for complainants and representing
attorneys to quickly obtain certain relevant case information and
documents when available.
The DOL’s mission to help workers with legitimate complaints is admirable, but one can’t help but think that this new program will facilitate increased numbers of frivolous lawsuits as well.
What do you think? We’d love to hear your comments.