Michael Kuczwara Jr. and Marron Mahoney Speak at Illinois Public Sector Labor Relations Law Conference

Laner Muchin is proud to announce that Partners Michael Kuczwara Jr. and Marron Mahoney were featured speakers at the 41st Annual Illinois Public Sector Labor Relations Law Conference, hosted by Chicago-Kent College of Law on November 7 in Chicago. The conference brought together leading lawyers, government officials, and academics to discuss today’s most important issues in public sector labor relations.

Michael Kuczwara, Jr., shared management-side insights during the Police Forum, drawing on his deep experience advising sheriff’s offices and police departments across Illinois. The panel focused on how collective bargaining affects modern policing, including issues of transparency, discipline, due process, and community accountability.

“Talking with other professionals about real-world issues I handle in police and sheriff negotiations was great,” Kuczwara said. “It’s always rewarding to share what I’ve learned and hear how others are tackling the same challenges.”

Michael also participated in the popular Ask the Arbitrator session, where panelists discussed trends and lessons from recent arbitration cases. “It felt a bit like being back in law school,” he laughed. “The questions were tough—but that’s what makes it fun.”

With over a decade of experience representing public employers, Michael focuses his practice on collective bargaining, grievance and interest arbitration, and labor board proceedings. His background gives him a practical understanding of how to maintain professional standards, protect management rights, and preserve effective working relationships in law enforcement settings.

Marron Mahoney was a panelist in the Firefighter Forum, which explored emerging labor and employment issues affecting Illinois fire departments. The discussion covered collective bargaining, discipline, safety standards, and recent developments in state and federal law.

“It was a privilege to speak with and learn from others who care so deeply about these issues,” Mahoney said. “Public sector employers face unique challenges, and open dialogue like this helps everyone find practical solutions.”

Marron advises both public and private sector employers in collective bargaining, grievance arbitration, investigations, and day-to-day employment counseling, helping organizations build fair and compliant workplaces.

The Illinois Public Sector Labor Relations Law Conference is one of the state’s leading educational events for labor and employment professionals. Topics ranged from pension reform and arbitration to free speech and workplace management, reflecting the fast-changing landscape of public employment law.

Laner’s continued participation underscores the firm’s longstanding commitment to public employers across Illinois, providing responsive, real-world legal guidance to help clients navigate complex labor relations with confidence and care.