Labor and Employment
The Changing Landscape of EEOC Enforcement and Disparate Impact
In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss a new executive order directing the EEOC not to pursue or investigate claims of disparate impact. They explain the concept of disparate impact, its relevance under Title VII, and how this executive order changes EEOC's enforcement practices. The discussion clarifies that while the law remains intact, enforcement priorities may shift, and underscores the importance for employers to remain aware and compliant with both federal and state laws regarding discrimination.
May 6, 2025
Labor and Employment
Ensuring Success with Executive Agreements
In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the importance of executive employment agreements for key employees such as CEOs, CFOs, and COOs. They cover why these agreements are crucial, what organizations should consider, and the balance of protecting business interests while offering incentives to top executives. Tune in to learn about bonus structures, equity incentives, severance terms, and strategies to ensure smooth transitions and set a solid foundation for impactful leadership.
April 29, 2025
Labor and Employment
Legal and Practical Considerations of Adapting Employment Contracts
In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman explore the essential aspects of employment agreements. They discuss the importance of these agreements both at the beginning of an employment relationship and throughout its duration. The conversation includes considerations for at-will employment, the impact of state laws, and the practical and legal nuances of updating employment terms. Employers are urged to stay adaptable and thoughtful about their employment agreements, especially when circumstances change, such as promotions or policy updates. Join Sarah and Russell as they provide valuable insights on how to effectively manage employment agreements in your business.
April 22, 2025
Labor and Employment
Essentials for Balancing Taxes and Legal Risk
In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the essentials for balancing taxes and legal risk. They explore how tax considerations play a critical role in various legal contexts, including business setups, settlements, lawsuits, and ownership changes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of consulting with accountants and tax attorneys to ensure compliance and make informed decisions. Discover strategies for integrating tax planning into your legal and business frameworks to mitigate risks and optimize outcomes.
April 15, 2025
Labor and Employment
The Power of Lawyer Letters
Join attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman in this week's episode of OK at Work as they delve into the topic of pre-litigation letters. They explore the different types of lawyer letters, such as demand letters and cease and desist letters, and discuss how these letters can be strategic tools to resolve conflicts before heading to court. Learn about the nuances, purposes, and potential impacts of sending such letters and why they might be a valuable step in mitigating disputes.
April 8, 2025
Labor and Employment
Crafting Effective Performance Improvement Plans
Join attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman as they discuss the essential role of documentation in progressive discipline and performance plans for employees. Learn the steps involved in creating effective performance plans, how to tailor documentation to specific issues, and how proper documentation aids in both legal protection and improving employee performance. Understand the importance of communication tools and strategies to guide employees towards success or manage them out when necessary.
April 1, 2025
Labor and Employment
Keeping Up with Exemption Threshold Regulations
Join attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman on this week's episode of OK at Work as they delve into the intricacies of the salary basis test for overtime exemptions under the FLSA. They discuss the current federal requirements, clarify the confusion around recent changes and litigation, and offer insights on how to navigate this evolving legal landscape. Learn about the current salary threshold, potential steps for compliance, and the limitations of relying on online information for legal guidance.
March 25, 2025
Labor and Employment
Staying Ahead with Federal Government's Impact on Business
Join Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger, attorneys at Offit Kurman, as they discuss the significant impact of recent federal government changes on businesses, especially those engaging in government contracts and federal purchasing. They explore potential economic effects, the importance of adapting business strategies, and the likelihood of contract disputes arising from rapid executive orders. Tune in for key insights to help business owners stay prepared and responsive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
March 18, 2025
Labor and Employment
Building and Exiting Business Partnerships
Join attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman as they discuss the dynamics of business relationships. In this episode of OK at Work, they explore the importance of proactive planning in partnerships, the challenges of business 'divorces,' and the necessity of clear roles and exit strategies to help businesses thrive even when conflicts arise.
March 11, 2025
Labor and Employment
The Litigation Landscape Explained
In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman delve into the complexities of business litigation. They discuss various types of litigation that business owners might face, such as commercial arbitration, class actions, and equitable relief. The conversation highlights the importance of strategic planning, understanding different litigation forums, and early professional engagement to navigate the legal landscape effectively. Whether you're looking to avoid litigation or find efficient recovery paths, this episode offers valuable insights for business owners.
March 4, 2025
Labor and Employment
Exploring Paid Family Leave in Maryland for Employers
Join Sarah Sawyer, Russell Berger, and guest Ben Bohonowicz as they discuss the current status and implications of Maryland's Paid Family and Medical Leave Act. Originally set for implementation in 2025, recent updates have delayed the program. Ben, the Senior Vice President, Division Director of Employee Benefits at RCM&D, provides insights on the act's impact on employers, the necessity for coordination with existing benefits, and how employers can prepare for future changes. Tune in to learn about the intricacies of paid leave programs and what employers need to know to stay compliant and competitive.
February 25, 2025
Labor and Employment
Recruitment in a Changing Federal Landscape
In this week's episode of OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger, attorneys at Offit Kurman, discuss the recruitment of new hires in light of recent changes in federal government employment under the new presidential administration. The discussion includes strategies for attracting experienced federal workers affected by job terminations, layoffs, or changes in remote work policies. Given the unique impact on the DMV area, the conversation highlights the potential for private sector employers to create stable, flexible, and appealing work environments to attract these talented individuals. They also explore the added value these seasoned professionals could bring to private organizations.
February 18, 2025
Labor and Employment
Preparing Employers for ICE Enforcement
In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the recent surge in ICE enforcement actions and changes in immigration policy under the Trump administration. They provide crucial advice for employers on how to handle ICE inspections and deportation warrants, emphasizing the importance of I-9 compliance and the option of using E-Verify. Tune in to stay informed and ensure your business is prepared.
February 11, 2025
Labor and Employment
Successful Strategies for Employee Transitions
In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss essential strategies for managing employee transitions. As the new year prompts organizational changes, they offer guidance on planning restructures, handling terminations, and ensuring stability. Learn how to navigate these changes effectively for a smoother workflow.
February 4, 2025
Labor and Employment
Adapting to Changes in a New Presidential Era
In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the legal implications following the recent inauguration. They break down the roles of various branches of government, the impact of executive orders, and what businesses should consider amidst the barrage of headlines. Emphasizing caution over reactionary measures, they advise companies to analyze laws and understand the positions of federal agencies and courts before making decisions. Additionally, they highlight the importance of considering state laws and staying informed about changes in agency priorities.
January 28, 2025
Navigating Customer Terms and Usage
On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss strategies for both the terms and usage of customer contracts. Listen to learn more.
January 21, 2025
Navigating Snow Days, Office Closures, and Remote Work Planning
On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss both compensation and engagement issues related to snow days and other unexpected office closures, as well as the value of planning ahead for remote work. Listen to learn more.
January 14, 2025
Managing Employee Performance During Investigations and Workplace Complaints
On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss the challenges associated with and actions that can be taken with respect to managing employee performance during an investigation and following a workplace complaint that may entitle the employee to protection against retaliation. Listen to learn more.
January 7, 2025
Driving Team Buy-In and Managing Risks for 2025 Strategies
On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss how implementations of new plans and strategies for 2025 will require thoughtful internal change from management to ensure both team buy-in and effective risk management. Listen to learn more.
January 2, 2025
OK at Work: Understanding Cybersecurity Basics and Policies for Businesses
On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss the basics of cybersecurity policies for businesses, particularly with respect to text messaging. Listen to learn more.
December 17, 2024
OK at Work: Navigating Holiday Parties for Business Success
On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger return to their annual discussion of holiday parties. This year, Sarah and Russell discuss how businesses can benefit from such social gatherings while mitigating risk. Listen to learn more.
December 10, 2024
OK at Work: Preparing Your Business for White House Administration Changes
On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss the steps that businesses can take to prepare to the uncertainty of a change in administration in the White House. Businesses should be asking: what might change in my industry and how might it impact me? Listen to learn more.
December 3, 2024
OK at Work: Corporate Transparency Act Compliance Reminders for Year-End
On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger share reminders about the Corporate Transparency Act and the need for existing entities that are not exempt to get compliant with their disclosures by the end of this year. Listen to learn more.
November 26, 2024
OK at Work: Overtime Rule Reversal on FLSA Salary Thresholds
On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss a recent court decision that undoes the recent and future increases to the FLSA's salary basis threshold for maintaining exemptions to overtime pay. Some businesses may have already made changes, but the court ruling returns the salary basis to the amount established in 2019. Listen to learn more.
November 20, 2024
OK at Work: Managing Digital Information
On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss the challenges of managing information in a digital world, as well as the need to maintain controls over electronically stored information both for operation and litigation purposes. Listen to learn more.
November 18, 2024
OK at Work: Preparing for Executive Transitions
On this week's Ok at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss how to prepare for and document executive transitions. Listen to learn more.
November 5, 2024
OK at Work: Unmasking Business Laws – Tricks, Treats, and Opportunities
On this week's Halloween edition of OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss the tricks and treats associated with laws that apply to businesses. While compliance obligations can often be scary and feel like a trick, it is important to remember that law often presents opportunities and chances to grab the advantage. Listen to learn more.
October 29, 2024
OK at Work: Navigating Responsibility in the Age of Rapid Tech Advancements
On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss the increase of rapidly advancing technologies (food delivery robots!) and how businesses will need to stand behind, and be responsible for, the technology that they use. Listen to learn more.
October 22, 2024
OK at Work: Ensuring Managers Handle Employee Complaints Effectively
On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss the importance of making sure managers know how to handle complaints from employees and follow the company's prepared reporting structure to ensure proper handling. Listen to learn more.
October 15, 2024
OK at Work: Maryland’s Wage Transparency Law
On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss the practical realities of new pay transparency laws and how business owners can think strategically about these laws. Listen to learn more.
October 8, 2024
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Vlog Overview
OK at Work, hosted by Offit Kurman attorneys Russell Berger and Sarah Sawyer, is a weekly video series that discusses current events and legal issues impacting business owners. From updates on the ever-changing employment law landscape to the risks and benefits of integrating AI into your workplace, subscribe to stay up-to-date on issues and events that may impact you and your business.
Disclaimer
The content presented in this video series is for general understanding and informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice, nor should it be construed as legal advice. The information provided is based on general legal principles and may not reflect the current state of the law or specific details of your case. Laws vary by jurisdiction, and legal outcomes can be highly dependent on the specific facts and circumstances involved. Listening to or using this video series does not create an attorney-client relationship between the hosts, guests, or participants and any listener. It is your responsibility to seek professional legal advice for your specific situation from a licensed professional attorney in your state.
