If a charge filed with the NLRB results in a formal complaint, what happens next?

When a charge filed with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) results in a formal complaint, it indicates that the NLRB has found reasonable cause to believe that the allegations warrant further examination. The next step involves the case being referred to an NLRB administrative law judge, who conducts a hearing to evaluate the evidence presented by both parties. This judicial process is crucial, as it ensures that all claims are thoroughly investigated, allowing for a fair determination of whether the allegations of unfair labor practices are valid.

The decision made by the administrative law judge can then be appealed, adding another layer to the legal process. The significance of having a formal hearing is to ensure that the rights of both employers and employees are upheld while resolving disputes in the realm of labor relations. This procedural step highlights the NLRB's commitment to due process and thorough adjudication of labor law issues.