Following its historic victory in the U.S. Supreme Court, Legal Services Alabama (LSA) is now focused on ensuring that the ruling translates into tangible improvements for thousands of Alabamians affected by the Alabama Department of Labor’s (ADOL) delays in processing unemployment claims.

“LSA is delighted by the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court and welcome the opportunity to work with the Alabama Department of Workforce Development to help attain our mutual goals,” says LSA Executive Director, Guy Lescault.

When Raymond Williams brought his pandemic unemployment case to LSA he recalls, “I felt really depressed. I go to work every day, and then when it’s time for some help I couldn’t get anything. It felt like the system just wasn’t working.”

Williams later became the named plaintiff in the Williams v. Reed case argued before the U.S. Supreme Court in October 2024.

Now that the Court has ruled in favor of LSA, Williams feels a new hope.

“It blew me away when I learned about the U.S. Supreme Court case. It made me feel like there is still someone out there who cares about the little people. It made me want to stay strong and pull through,” says Williams.

But the fight is not over yet.

What’s to Come

A Return to the AL Supreme Court for Further Litigation

The Supreme Court remanded the case to the Alabama Supreme Court, which means the Alabama Supreme Court will now have to address their decision. According to LSA Director of Advocacy, Michael Forton, “As this case returns to the Alabama courts, LSA is hopeful that they will accept the decision of the United States Supreme Court and acknowledge the rights of Alabama workers. As always, LSA promises to continue the fight for equal access to unemployment compensation.”

Legal Support for Claimants

LSA will continue representing individuals who experience delays or improper denials, helping them navigate the appeals process effectively.

The case sets a precedent that will impact not only Alabama but also states across the country dealing with similar bureaucratic obstacles.

“The lawsuit was always about due process,” says Assistant Advocacy Director, Farah Majid. “Our plaintiffs waited years without a decision from ADOL or a hearing on their appeal, etc. At this point, many (but not all) plaintiffs have received hearings. Now, we’ll continue to work on each individual case to make sure they’ve been given hearings on their claims when appropriate.”