Blog: Opinions & Observations

COVID-19 and Contracts – Assessing Business Liability for Breach

April 07, 2020

COVID-19 and its effects are forcing businesses across the nation to critically analyze operations. Some are getting creative to keep operations going. Others are simply unable to move forward in the current business environment and are forced to cut their losses. If you unfortunately find yourself in the latter circumstance, one of the first things you should do is review your current contract, such as your commercial lease or supplier agreements, to...

Relief for Businesses under the CARES Act

April 06, 2020

On March 27, 2020 the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”) was signed into law.  The CARES Act provides numerous avenues for businesses to obtain financial assistance and relief as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic.  The law is over 800 pages long and cannot be addressed in an article of this length.  However, there are several program components that businesses should review and may find beneficial.  This article...

Worker Safety During a Pandemic: Handling Employees’ Fear of Exposure and Employees with COVID-19

March 31, 2020

(Last updated April 6, 2020)The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented challenges for employers.  While many retail establishments and other businesses have voluntarily or involuntarily shut down and many other organizations are allowing employees to work remotely, others are attempting to remain operating at full or reduced capacity.  Those who are maintaining on-site operations may find that some employees refuse to come to work because of...

Coping with Spousal or Child Support Issues During COVID-19

March 26, 2020

We are living through unprecedented times.  Many states have issued orders to “shelter in place”.   Our Governor has closed all non-essential businesses.  One significant effect of these conditions is the loss of diminution of employment.  As a result, people who are subject to court orders, may find themselves unable to pay their court ordered support be it spousal or child support.The first thing to remember is that support is pursuant to a court...

What Employers Need to Know about the Families First Coronavirus Response Act

March 26, 2020

Last week, the President signed into law the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”), the first of what promises to be a number of legislative enactments addressing the current pandemic.  The FFCRA contains three specific laws that small to mid-sized employers should review: Public Health Emergency Leave, the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act, and the Tax Credits for Paid Sick and Paid Family and Medical Leave.  According to guidance published by...