Labor and Employment Practice Emphasis
Karl R. Ottosen has over twenty years of experience representing governmental bodies, private corporations, and individuals in a variety of labor and employment law issues. His practice includes general public safety, municipal, and school law matters.
Representative Matters
Mr. Ottosen frequently negotiates contracts with unions representing bargaining units in law enforcement, fire protection, education, public works, and other public services, as well as with private sector manufacturing units. Whether serving as a spokesperson leading the negotiations or as a confidential advisor, Mr. Ottosen ensures that contract negotiations are professionally conducted. He fully understands that employers must be able to effectively administer the final contract without impairing their ability to provide services and products. In addition to his work with contract matters, Mr. Ottosen represents employers in grievance and interest arbitrations, and advises on discipline investigations. He provides proactive problem avoidance counseling through supervisor training programs and the drafting of effective personnel policies.
Publications and Presentations
Mr. Ottosen is regularly selected to speak at seminars and workshops on labor, employment, and local government law issues. His topics include issues in finance, litigation, anti-discrimination compliance, supervisor training, sexual harassment, violence in the workplace, and other general labor and employment concerns. Mr. Ottosen has been a contributing author for the Illinois Institute of Continuing Legal Education and contributes articles to various legal and trade publications.
Professional Background
As one of the initial hearing officers of the Illinois State Labor Relations Board, Mr. Ottosen was responsible for deciding cases that helped establish the foundation of the state’s public sector labor law. After approximately two years with the labor board, Mr. Ottosen entered into private practice, representing management in labor relations matters.
Leadership
Karl R. Ottosen played a leading role in the founding of Ottosen Britz Kelly Cooper & Gilbert, Ltd. in 1992. His vision was to build a law firm dedicated to serving those who serve others: municipalities, school districts, and public safety organizations. Under Mr. Ottosen’s guidance as President and Managing Partner, OBKC&G, Ltd. is recognized as a leading law firm in Illinois for municipal, school, and public safety law. Nearly 400 governmental entities throughout the state rely on the firm for legal guidance tailored to their needs, reflecting a full-service practice that has the breadth and scope to develop comprehensive solutions.
OBKC&G, Ltd. has grown through a philosophy that Mr. Ottosen established at the firm’s beginning. Members of the firm are chosen both for their professionalism and their passion about the law. Working together, firm members help clients reach their desired goals within legal constraints by emphasizing open communication that facilitates informed decisions. Reflecting Mr. Ottosen’s own background and experience, firm members combine practical, real-world experience with a true commitment to their specific areas of practice. They are knowledgeable and seasoned professionals who are dedicated to providing the highest levels of service, with integrity and at a fair price.
