I respectfully suggest that those of you who think that it is only the Balpa legal support that has the option of not backing you should they think your case is unwinnable, read the small print on any of the other independant leagl aid policies that you may be in possesion of. That includes the IPA/IPF and Aircrew Legal Protection Limited. Every legal cover policy has a 'get out' clause if they think your case is not worth their effort.
Balpa is more than just legal cover but unfortunately far too many pilots can't be bothered with doing a bit more research into what exactly it is that Balpa does, besides offer advice, before dismissing it. It certainly isn't perfect but it is better than any other option out there. The companies that have the best terms and conditions for their pilots are those that have a high percentage of Balpa membership. Every management team knows that a divided workforce is one they can manipulate over terms and conditions. The lack of strong Balpa membership is a godsend to modern management.