In the first half of 2024, MEA has been working hard behind the scenes on 564 cases. As a matter of transparency, the MEA would like our members to know about our work for the membership. We think that it is important that members know what the MEA does.
- Job-Related Matters: issues related to workplace matters that do not escalate into the legal space. These issues may include needing advice, understanding supervisory responsibilities, and/or strategically crafting a response. Often, members need a sounding board for matters relating to subordinates/supervisors, performance evaluations, time/leave, or any change in one’s job.
- Legal (Work Related): our attorneys provide legal counsel for EEO, DOI, COIB, and Civil Service interviews and hearings. Remember to contact the MEA immediately, do not discuss these matters with others, and do not attend these activities without conferring with the MEA.
- Legal (Non-Work Related): legal services include access to counseling, covering a wide range of legal matters that are non-job related. Key components of the program include a preferred-client rate for additional legal work and free consultation as part of your membership. Legal areas include, but not limited to, wills to real estate.
- Legal (Not Referred): members and non-members will contact the MEA with issues for very particular reasons that cannot be referred onward to counsel. These may be pre-existing legal matters for which the MEA cannot provide assistance. It is a difficult conversation.
- Member Benefits: matters where members need assistance and problem resolution for issues traditionally related to various insurance/benefits problems.
- Pension Services: personal counseling sessions enable MEA members to learn about the various options which are available to them prior to retirement.
- Non-Member Inquiries: our office receives many inquiries from individuals who seek information or clarification. We do ask that they join the MEA.
- Member Inquiries: addressing member questions or concerns on issues, providing information and/or clarification on topics.
- Membership Development: instances when a non-member inquiry becomes an opportunity for that individual to join the MEA. Understandably, all interactions are such but because of the nature of the conversation these activities are noted.