Weingarten Rights Script: What You Need to Know for Investigatory Interviews
When facing an investigatory interview, it’s essential to understand your Weingarten rights. This Weingarten rights script helps you know how to protect yourself. According to a Supreme Court ruling, the following rules apply:
RULE #1: You need to ask for union representation clearly before or during the interview. Your request must be granted, and you can't be punished for making it.
RULE #2: Once you make the request, your employer has three choices:
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Allow the request and wait for the union representative to arrive. The representative should talk with you privately before the interview continues.
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Deny the request and end the interview right away.
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Offer you a choice: have the interview without representation or stop the interview.
RULE #3: If the employer denies your request and keeps asking questions, it’s an unfair labor practice. You can refuse to answer and should not face any punishment for it.
Example Weingarten Rights Script:
Before a meeting where you might face discipline or termination, you can use this script: "If this discussion could in any way lead to my being disciplined or terminated, or affect my personal working conditions, I respectfully request that my union representative, officer, or steward be present at this meeting. Until my representative arrives, I choose not to participate in this discussion."
By understanding and using this Weingarten rights script, you can ensure that your rights are protected during investigatory interviews.