Government lawyers play a pivotal role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that public policies are implemented justly and efficiently. Whether serving in the Attorney General’s Office or within State Advocate teams, these legal professionals deserve workplaces where fairness, respect, and adequate support are the norm—not the exception. Recent breakthroughs achieved by UHM Voice of the Workers underscore this critical issue, showcasing how collective bargaining can lead to improved working environments and enhanced legal services.

A historic milestone

In 2022, UHM Voice of the Workers marked a significant milestone by negotiating the very first collective agreement for the Attorney General’s Office. This achievement was not handed on a silver platter; it came after a protracted, arduous process where government delays necessitated industrial action. This resolute effort by UHM reflects a broader truth: that robust, fair employment conditions are not only a matter of workers’ rights but also serve as the bedrock for efficient governmental function and service delivery. When legal professionals operate in a well-supported environment, the quality of legal oversight and public trust in government institutions is elevated.

Momentum and continued progress

The successes did not stop with the Attorney General’s Office. Just 18 months later, the union took another significant step by securing a collective agreement for the State Advocate Office. This progression demonstrates the continuous pursuit of excellence in working conditions for government lawyers. Such evolution in labor negotiations is a testament to the power of solidarity and the necessity of persistent, determined dialogue between unions and government entities. It reveals an underlying message: the welfare of our public servants directly influences the efficiency and integrity of government operations.

International recognition and broader implications

The groundbreaking efforts of UHM Voice of the Workers have not gone unnoticed. Their achievements resonated across borders, drawing the attention of the Canadian Association of Crown Counsel (CACC). At a recent meeting on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association conference in Malta, representatives from the CACC engaged with UHM delegates to learn from their experiences. This international interest is an acknowledgment of the pioneering role played by UHM in setting new standards for employment conditions—standards that foster a more motivated, secure, and capable legal workforce.

Why good employment conditions matter

The debate over employment conditions among government lawyers reaches far beyond contractual discussions or wage negotiations. These conditions influence job satisfaction, professional growth, and the overall capacity of legal institutions to respond to societal challenges. Government lawyers are entrusted with complex responsibilities that demand high ethical standards, acute legal acumen, and unwavering integrity. Ensuring they have optimal working conditions not only benefits the individuals but also underpins the effectiveness of the legal system and public administration.

Investing in our legal workforce means recognizing that the public good is served when those responsible for enforcing justice are provided with the resources, training, and support they need. The strides made by UHM serve as a compelling example of how consistent, dedicated advocacy can bring about meaningful change—a change that benefits everyone from the individual legal professional to the entire fabric of society.

The success stories emerging from both the Attorney General’s Office and the State Advocate Office send a resounding message: fair employment conditions are not mere perks, but essential components of a robust legal system. Governments must embrace the imperative to invest in their legal professionals. Equally, unions like UHM set benchmarks that guide policy makers and inspire other nations, proving that with determination and unity, transformational change is achievable.