Outten & Golden, a U.S.-based law firm specializing in labor and employment litigation, has voluntarily recognized a union formed by its associate attorneys. The union, named Outten & Golden United, includes all 24 of the firm's associate lawyers and is not a member of any existing U.S. union organization.

Managing partner Adam Klein expressed support for the union movement, stating that the firm is "aligned with their interests." He also mentioned that the formation of the union was a "logical next step" considering the firm's history of representing workers and unions, including the Communications Workers of America.

The firm's new union, Outten & Golden United, believes that labor unions are "uniquely situated to promote workplace democracy, equity, and transparency throughout the legal profession and beyond." They look forward to what they describe as a "historic and productive bargaining relationship with the firm." The next step in the process will be to negotiate a collective bargaining agreement, although Klein admitted that he did not know how long negotiations would take or what possible sticking points could be.

Associates are typically salaried employees at most U.S. law firms, unlike partners who are part-owners with a stake in their firm's profits. Klein said that he did not think much would change in the firm's daily operations. Before the union formed, the firm had an associate committee that provided input on the firm's operations. 

This recognition of a union within a law firm is a significant development in the legal profession, reflecting a broader trend towards workplace democracy and transparency. It also highlights the evolving dynamics between associates and management within law firms, potentially setting a precedent for other firms to follow.