Legal & Government Affairs – Workforce Alabama

Divisions / Legal & Government Affairs

Legal & Government Affairs

Our Legal & Government Affairs team helps Workforce Alabama move forward with confidence. The division provides legal guidance and advice, represents the agency in court, and reviews contracts and partnerships that power our work. It also serves as a bridge to government, business and other partners, shaping legislation that supports a strong workforce.

See how to appeal a decision to the Board of Appeals

Hearings and Appeals

Moving Workforce Alabama forward

The division works hard to deliver resources that matter. Our team:

  • Provides legal guidance to support Workforce Alabama’s programs, policies and daily operations
  • Represents Workforce Alabama in court and other legal proceedings
  • Reviews and manages contracts, agreements and memorandums of understanding
  • Advises leadership and staff on compliance with state and federal laws
  • Serves as a liaison to local, state and federal government partners
  • Engages with business and labor groups on workforce-related issues
  • Monitors, evaluates and helps shape legislation impacting our state’s workforce system
Board of Appeals

The Board of Appeals reviews and conducts Unemployment Compensation hearings at the highest administration level, issuing a written decision to all parties involved. Should any party disagree with the board’s decision, they can appeal to the Circuit Court.

F.A.Q.

If you have questions about payroll checks, lunch or daily breaks or the number of hours worked or Federal Wage & Hour:

Please call (334) 223-7450 or toll free at 1-866-487-9243

If you have questions regarding Unemployment Compensation Check verification (check cashing stores):

Please call (334) 956-5870

If you have questions regarding Signs for the Workplace:

Please visit this LINK.

If you have questions regarding your Circuit Court appeal:

Please call (334) 956-7470

If you have questions regarding obtaining records by release or subpoena; i.e. unemployment records, workers compensation records, or employment services records:

Please call (334) 956-7470

If you have questions regarding obtaining your work history:

Please call (334) 954-4076

Who are the Board of Appeals members?

The members of the Board of appeals are not State Employees. They are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate.  They are not employed by the Alabama Department of Labor and work part-time.

Where does the Board of Appeals meet?

The Board meets in 7 different cities on a rotating basis. The cities are: Montgomery, Trussville, Mobile, Dothan, Decatur, Oxford and Tuscaloosa.  They meet in each city about every 2 months. A written notice will be provided with the time, date and location of the hearing.

Why did the Board deny my appeal?

The law allows the Board to either hear a case or deny an appeal. The members of the Board do not have to state a reason for denying an appeal and do not tell the Administrative Staff the reason(s) for denying an appeal. If an appeal is denied, the party may then proceed to Circuit Court.

If I have a hearing, how long will it take to receive a decision?

A written decision is sent about 3 weeks after a hearing.

How do I appeal a decision of the Administrative Hearing Officer?

Appeals should be in writing, stating the reason for the appeal and sent to the Alabama Department of Labor, Board of Appeals, 649 Monroe St. Montgomery, AL 36131, or Faxed to (334) 956-7494.

If I cannot appear at a hearing, may I ask for a continuance?

Yes, the Board may grant a continuance for good reason(s).  A party may submit a written statement which should be dated, signed and notarized.

If I have a question, whom should I contact?

The Alabama Department of Labor (334) 309-9066.

Should I continue to call my claim in every week even though I have appealed to the Board?

Yes, because you are required by law to call in your claim every week you are claiming unemployment benefits.  Failure to do so may result in a loss of benefits for that week.

May I appeal a decision of the Board of Appeals?

Yes, the law allows an appeal from any decision of the Board to Circuit Court.  Instructions for appeals are contained in the decision which is sent by certified mail to your last known address of record on file with the Alabama Department of Labor.

If I move, do I need to notify the Alabama Department of Labor?

Yes, because notices are sent to your address of record.

Are there time limits on Appeals?

Yes, the law has specific time limits for Appeals.  Those requirements are contained in information you will receive regarding your appeal.