Mendocino County attorneys strike

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.willitsnews.com/localnews/ci_5387760

Mendocino County attorneys strike
By Linda Williams and Mike A'Dair/TWN Staff Writers
Article Launched: 03/08/2007 03:36:50 PM PST



Thirty Mendocino deputy public defenders, deputy district attorneys and child support attorneys represented by the Mendocino Public Attorneys Association (MPAA) went on strike Wednesday morning following failed negotiations with the county.

The county sought a temporary restraining order against the union and a hearing was scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Thursday in Ukiah. If granted, the striking attorneys must return to work in the interest of public safety.

Many of the strikers believe the judge will order them back to work.

"Our attorneys are gearing up for the hearing. We do not believe that public safety is imperiled, though the final decision is up to the judge," said Joe Martinelli, the Teamsters' business agent for the MPAA.

"Disappointed and frustrated" summed up the sentiment of the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors. "The parties have been bargaining for months and were actually very close at one point," said Chairwoman Kendall Smith.

County negotiators did not believe the negotiations were at an impasse and were surprised on February 13 to receive notice of the union's intent to strike on February 28 if no agreement was reached.

FULL story at link.