The Legal Department Staff provides advice and assistance and litigates cases on behalf of the officers and representatives of the International Union. Not only does the Department provide guidance to the International Union administration, but directly supplies assistance to local affiliates and members. The Legal Department also handles a variety of matters arising under federal labor, civil rights, prevailing wage, and related statutes. In addition, the Legal Staff works closely with the International Union's various Departments, such as Legislative, Davis-Bacon, Construction, Maintenance and Service Trades, Research and Education, Jurisdiction, Organizing, and Public Affairs. Finally, the Legal Department handles a variety of internal union matters, including guidance on Constitutional issues, development of the uniform job referral rules with the General Executive Board Attorney, and creation of rules, procedures and guidelines to implement the internal reform policies consistent with the traditional policies of the International Union.

The Department's staff continues to work closely and cooperatively with the General Executive Board Attorney, the Inspector General, the Appellate Officer and the Independent Hearing Officer.

The Department's lawyers are active in professional associations and other organizations whose activities affect the International Union, its affiliates and members. These lawyers participate at regional conferences and provide leadership training at the National Labor College.