FIREFIGHTERS' OFF-DUTY MISCONDUCT AND "JUST CAUSE" FOR DISCIPLINE: A REVIEW OF ARBITRATION CASES

WILLIAM J. WALSH
SHEILA VICARS-DUNCAN
SAMMIE ROBINSON

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DOI: 10.2190/CW8D-NJUH-WFYF-8RUG

Abstract

This article reviews the status of employer security of off-duty (mis)conduct by firefighters in the public sector. Arbitration cases involving firefighters were reviewed to identify the criteria used to sustain or deny the employees' claims that their employer fire districts lacked just cause to impose discipline. One question addressed was: "Is illegality of the conduct a necessary condition or sufficient condition for the imposition of discipline?" The criteria applied in recent arbitration cases were then compared to those used in the private sector.

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