Mr. Ripple’s practice focuses on a full spectrum of labor and employment issues ranging from daily consultation on statutory compliance to collective bargaining and traditional labor law issues. He has previously represented clients on traditional union-related labor issues including representational elections, unfair labor act proceedings before the National Labor Relations Board and labor arbitrations. Mr. Ripple has defended clients in state and federal court on a wide variety of employment issues, including federal and state civil rights claims, wage payment claims and whistleblower claims.

Prior to joining Vedder Price, Mr. Ripple served as Associate General Counsel at Munson Healthcare, where he served as chief spokesperson and negotiator for all union negotiations, and advised and assisted in the administration of collective bargaining agreements, including contract interpretation and grievance/discipline administration. He conducted labor arbitrations and represented the organization in labor organizing campaigns, unfair labor practices and other matters before the National Labor Relations Board. In addition, Mr. Ripple advised the human resources and management teams at Munsen Healthcare on federal and state employment law issues and provided consultation regarding work-related issues, conflicts, discipline, policy/procedure questions and contract interpretation.

Mr. Ripple also maintains an active occupational safety and health practice. He represents employers with respect to matters under the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) and state law equivalents. He represents employers during inspections and enforcement actions by OSHA and state agencies, including appeals of citations. He has experience advising clients in the aftermath of workplace accidents or fatalities and counsels clients on compliance with safety and health standards and regulations, as well as the implementation of safety and health programs and policies. He is the author of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce’s Occupational Safety and Health: A Guide for Michigan Employers.

Mr Ripple has legal teaching experience at Notre Dame Law School and the Seidman School of Business at Grand Valley State University. He earned his law degree, magna cum laude, from Notre Dame Law School, two masters degrees from Fordham University and his B.A., magna cum laude, from the University of Notre Dame. Mr. Ripple is a member of the Executive Advisory Committee of the Notre Dame Law Association.