Many Americans believe that their right to free speech under the First Amendment of the United States protects their right to say whatever they want on social media. Furthermore, many people believe that their personal social media accounts should be their own business, and should not affect their professional lives. In many instances this is… Read More
Employment Blog
Here you can find the most recent employment law news and commentary on cases around the country. If you need assistance with employment law, don't hesitate to call us.
An Employee’s Right to View Personnel Records in Oregon
Oregon employers are required to keep certain records on hand for each employee, compiled in a personnel file. These records are highly important in case an employee believes he or she has suffered discrimination, wage and hour violations, any form of retaliation, or wrongful termination. While employees should know their rights regarding their access to… Read More
Not All Discrimination Claims are Valid
Many employees in Oregon and across the United States suffer unlawful workplace discrimination every day. Such employees deserve full protection under federal and state anti-discrimination laws, and deserve to be fairly compensated for any violations of their rights under the law. However, like any type of civil action, some workplace discrimination claims are unfounded. Some… Read More
Subsequent Oregon Business Owner Responsible for Unpaid Wages
Under Oregon law, when a business goes under, employees still deserve to be fully compensated for all of the work they have completed. As a result, there is a specific process by which former employees may go about collecting unpaid wages if their employer closes. If such employees file a claim with the Oregon Bureau… Read More
Supreme Court Defines “Clothes” for Wage and Hour Purposes
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) dictates minimum wage and hour requirements for employees in the United States. A recurring question in employment cases involves whether employees must be paid for time changing into or out of clothes required for the performance of their job. Section 203(o) of FLSA specifically states that employees should not… Read More
Mario Batali Pays Big for Tip Skimming
Mario Batali is a celebrity chef and restaurateur who owns successful eateries across the United States. Batali has previously made headlines for criticizing the way bankers take money from the people and pocket it for themselves. Somewhat ironically, Batali is now under fire for taking money away from his own employees. The chef and his… Read More
Court Decides that FMLA Covered Las Vegas Trip
The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals recently upheld an interesting decision regarding the scope of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). FMLA provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for employees for qualified reasons, without the fear of losing their jobs. Qualified reasons include serious medical conditions, birth or adoption of a child,… Read More
Are Video Games The Job Interviewer Of The Future?
According to a recent King5.com story, Washington’s unemployment rate is the lowest it has been in five years. While this is positive news, unemployment is still a concern for many in Washington. For those still job-seeking, the interview process can be long and stressful. And the process may become more interesting and stressful in the… Read More
Olympia’s First Strip Club Begins Hiring
The Olympian recently reported on Desire Video’s Craigslist post seeking applicants for all positions. Desire Video’s owner proposed an adult cabaret to Olympia’s Community Planning and Development officials last year, and it appears his proposal was approved. According to the Craigslist post, no experience is necessary for dancers or wait staff, but experience is preferred… Read More
Washington Employers & Wellness Programs
Recently the Seattle Times published a story focusing on the effects of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), or Obamacare, on employer provided health insurance benefits. The article addresses many employee concerns, such as reduced hours to avoid required employee coverage, increased premiums, and changes in benefits. It also discusses a feature and change that has… Read More