Tyler Jones

FTC Issues Final Rule Banning Many Non-compete Agreements

Business, Employment

On April 23, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) adopted a new rule that would significantly limit the enforceability and validity of non-compete agreements on workers. This new rule will become effective 120 days after the publication of the final rule by the FTC. Although of interest to any business owner, healthcare providers and individuals […]


Sara Amies

A Surprise Unanimous Ruling on Title VII

Employment

On April 17, 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court issued an important ruling for employers. The bar for civil rights claims is now lower. After two lower courts ruled against an employee’s sex discrimination claim, the US Supreme Court unanimously disagreed. The plaintiff will have her claims heard by a jury of her peers.


Hannah Driscoll

New Investigators

Employment, Investigations

We are pleased to announce that Hannah Driscoll and Kristy Ball have earned the distinction of Association of Workplace Investigators Certificate Holder (AWI-CH) from the Association of Workplace Investigations (AWI).  Accordingly, Hannah and Kristy have “demonstrated success at achieving the core knowledge and skills necessary to successfully perform impartial workplace investigations.” In order to obtain […]


Common Pitfalls of Workplace Investigations

Employment

When issues arise with employees in any workplace, increasingly workplace investigations are used as both a risk management tool for employers as well as to develop and understand the “facts” of what transpired that caused the issue. When conducted properly, workplace investigations resolve disputes, uncover misconduct, protect employees, and protect employers from liability exposure. When […]


We’re in a Lockdown. It’s Fine; What’s the Risk with an Employee WFHawaii or Another State?

Business, Employment

The COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on society have accelerated the digital transformation of the modern workplace. With the increasing use of telecommuting technologies and more employers instituting permanent work from home policies, employees and employers are – or should be – asking the question: what are the potential legal issues an employer may face […]


Be Prepared for Reopening Your Business with COVID-19 Policies in your Employment Handbook

Coronavirus / COVID-19, Employment

Recent changes in law and best practice guidance from the CDC and local authorities require employers to adopt written COVID-19 related policies before returning employees back to the office. For a fixed fee, we are offering the following: COVID-19 Package: COVID-19 plans and policies including: a general checklist for employers an infected employee response plan a […]


Karen Kalzer

US Supreme Court Recognizes Employment Rights Based on Same-Sex and Gender Identity Status

Employment

The Supreme Court of the United States announced its 6-3 decision today affirming that Title VII protects employees from discrimination on the basis of sex, and that basis includes sexual orientation and gender identity. The Court addressed three consolidated cases in which each of the complainants was terminated shortly after their same-sex orientation or transgender […]


CDC Guidance for Phased Reopening of Workplaces

Coronavirus / COVID-19, Employment

Recently, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) draft guidelines for a 3-phased re-opening plan were released and published by national news media. Although rejected by the White House Coronavirus Task Force, given the often conflicting guidance coming from the White House, it is likely these guidelines would be viewed by some local and […]


New Protections for High-Risk Employees

Coronavirus / COVID-19, Employment

Yesterday, Governor Inslee issued his newest COVID-19 related order – Proclamation 20-46: High Risk Employees – Workers’ Rights – protecting high risk employees (defined as older adults and people of any age who have certain chronic underlying health conditions) by requiring the following of all public and private employers in Washington State: Utilize all available […]