As a member benefit, since January 1, 2009, all SDRA members may receive free consultation with an attorney regarding labor, employment and human resource law questions.

      The service is available through an agreement SDRA has signed with Jackson Lewis LLP (formerly Berens & Tate), a law firm with a nationwide practice specializing in labor relations, employment litigation, and human resource management. Jackson Lewis attorneys represent only the employer/management side of labor and employment.

      There is no limit to the number of times any SDRA member may call and/or email in a day, week, month, or year. (Chris Hoyme of the Jackson Lewis law firm is a member of the South Dakota Bar).

      Additionally, if an SDRA member ever requires assistance beyond telephone or email consultation (such as a lawsuit or discrimination charge), the member will receive the added benefit of a 20% reduction in fees from the Jackson Lewis law firm.

     Examples of the types of questions about which SDRA members may call:

• Hiring and firing
• Disciplining employees
• Wage and hour laws
• Overtime pay requirements
• Family and Medical Leave Act issues
• Americans with Disabilities Act issues
• EEOC matters
• Child labor laws
• Unemployment insurance issues
• Workers compensation issues
• Harassment problems
• OSHA  

      SDRA members may access contact information for the Jackson Lewis law firm by clicking here.