Tim Dlugos believes that being an effective advocate often means being a translator, helping clients understand the often-complex aspects of the law, and then ushering them through the complicated processes and procedures. Navigating through labor and employment issues is no exception.

Over the course of his career, Tim has focused on advocating for public sector union employees, including public safety and law enforcement officers, teachers and school employees, nurses, municipal and courthouse personnel, and public utility employees. The traditional labor matters that he handles range from grievance arbitration and unfair labor practices challenges to mediation and contract negotiations, including Act 312 arbitration and fact finding. Tim also litigates teacher tenure disputes, as well as unemployment claims and appeals resulting from all types of employee/employer relationships. Additionally, he represents a variety of professionals in licensure and disciplinary actions arising before their related State agencies, such as nurses, veterinarians, therapists and paramedics, and he provides guidance on issues arising under the Fair Labor Standards Act and wage and fringe benefit matters.

Tim is proud of the reputation he has earned. For instance, he recalls an oral argument before the Michigan Court of Appeals in which one of the judges on the panel stopped him mid-sentence to note, “You are doing an excellent job arguing your case, counselor. I don’t agree with you, but you’re doing an outstanding job.” Fond of saying that he doesn’t write the facts, he just does his best to deal with them, Tim takes great pride in his approach, the positions he takes, and the outcomes he delivers. With this type of approach to advocacy, it has not been unusual for opposing counsel to recommend the Firm to employees and unions in search of effective attorneys.

When not working, you can find Tim on the ice at least twice a week year-round as part of a men’s hockey league. While he would like to spend more time on the golf course, his schedule and the weather do not often cooperate. The rest of his time is enjoyed with his wife Julie and daughter Rena.