UNITE HERE Local 165 — Member Resources
Regarding Your Rights
& Weingarten Rights
& Weingarten Rights
You have the right to union representation during investigatory interviews. Here’s what you need to know — and exactly what to say.
The Weingarten Right
What It Means
Your Right to a Shop Steward
Employees have the right to insist upon the presence of a Shop Steward in any investigatory interview that is reasonably believed will result in disciplinary action against the employee.
This is your right under the “Weingarten” case — a landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling that protects union members from facing management alone during disciplinary investigations.
How to Invoke Your Right
1
First, Ask
“Am I going to be disciplined?”
If you are called into a meeting and believe the employer may be considering discipline, ask this question directly.
2
If the Answer Is Anything But “No”
“I want my Union Steward.”
Say these words clearly. Once you invoke your Weingarten right, the employer must either allow your steward to be present or stop the interview entirely.
Remember: You do not have to face an investigatory interview alone. If you are ever unsure whether a meeting could lead to discipline, invoke your right immediately and contact the union office at (702) 384-7774.