Legal Definitions - labor dispute

Definition: A labor dispute is a disagreement or conflict between an employer and its employees regarding the terms and conditions of employment. It can also involve disputes over the representation of employees who negotiate or seek to negotiate the terms and conditions of employment.

Examples:

• A union representing workers at a factory is negotiating with the management over wages and benefits. If the negotiations break down and the workers go on strike, it becomes a labor dispute.
• An employee files a complaint with the labor board, claiming that the employer has violated their rights under the labor laws. The employer disputes the claim, and the case goes to arbitration. This is also a labor dispute.

These examples illustrate how a labor dispute can arise from disagreements over wages, benefits, working conditions, or other employment-related issues. When negotiations between the employer and employees break down, it can lead to strikes, lockouts, or other forms of industrial action. In some cases, the dispute may be resolved through mediation or arbitration, while in others, it may require legal action or intervention by government agencies.