Jessica, a graphic designer in New York, recently discovered that despite working 50 hours a week, she wasn’t receiving any overtime pay. She assumed this was normal as a salaried employee until a colleague opened her eyes to her rights under New York Labor Law. This story highlights a common issue many salaried employees face: understanding their eligibility for overtime pay.  Understanding Overtime Pay The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the standard for overtime pay across the U.S., generally requiring employers to pay employees one and a half times their regular pay rate for hour ..read more

In a landmark decision that broadens the scope of workplace equality, New York’s top court has set a precedent ensuring that the state’s anti-discrimination laws protect job seekers, regardless of their residency. The unanimous ruling is a significant step in the fight against workplace discrimination.  The court held that New York City and state laws that prohibit discrimination extend their protection to individuals applying for jobs within New York, even if they reside elsewhere. This decision highlights New York’s commitment to maintaining an inclusive and equitable working environmen ..read more

Sexual harassment in the workplace is often portrayed as a challenge faced predominantly by women, but this narrative overlooks a significant portion of victims: men. The reality is that men, too, can and do experience sexual harassment, though their stories are frequently untold and overshadowed by societal norms and stereotypes.  This oversight not only perpetuates a gender-biased understanding of harassment but also leaves many male victims without a voice. As we discuss this issue, we must broaden our perspective and acknowledge the diverse range of experiences and challenges faced in ..read more

Imagine this: It’s payday, and you’re checking your account for the much-needed paycheck, but it’s nowhere to be seen. This frustrating and anxiety-inducing situation is unfortunately not uncommon, leaving many employees wondering what to do next. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps to take when faced with a late paycheck, helping you understand your rights and the appropriate actions to ensure you’re paid what you’re owed. Navigating this issue can be complex, but with the proper knowledge and approach, you can effectively address the problem.  Understanding Your Rights Under ..read more

Imagine you’ve been feeling unwell, so you visit your doctor and get a note recommending a few days of rest. You submit this note to your employer, expecting your sick leave to be approved. But, to your surprise, your employer rejects it.  In this situation, it’s crucial to understand your employer’s sick leave policies, legal protections under state law, and how to navigate the refusal effectively. In this blog, we’ll explore the steps you can take to address this issue and ensure your rights are respected. Understanding Sick Leave Policies and Laws Understanding sick leave policies and ..read more

Last Friday, Sarah met her coworker, John, at a local café for what she thought was an innocent coffee. But the friendly chat quickly turned uncomfortable when John made inappropriate comments and advances. What can you do if a coworker sexually harasses you outside of work? It’s a gray area many employees grapple with. This post discusses the steps to protect yourself, ensuring that your work environment remains safe and respectful, no matter where you are.” Defining Sexual Harassment Outside of the Workplace.  Sexual harassment outside of the workplace, while occurring in a different se ..read more

The landscape of whistleblower protection under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) has recently shifted significantly. On February 8th, the U.S. Supreme Court delivered a landmark ruling impacting how SOX retaliation claims are pursued. This blog examines the implications of this ruling for employers and potential whistleblowers. Backdrop of the Case: Murray v. UBS Securities The case at the center of this ruling, Murray v. UBS Securities, involved Trevor Murray, a research strategist at UBS’s commercial mortgage-backed securities business. Murray claimed that he was pressured to skew his reports to ..read more

Employment law constantly evolves, and staying abreast of these changes is crucial for businesses and workers. In January 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) introduced a significant update to its Independent Contractor Rule under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).  This change has sparked a need for clear understanding and strategic adaptation. This blog is an overview of the new DOL rule, offering a comprehensive look at how it impacts employers and independent contractors. What Is an Independent Contractor? At its core, the concept of an independent contractor revolves around au ..read more

Losing a job can be a challenging experience, filled with uncertainty and stress. However, a well-negotiated severance package can offer a silver lining, providing financial support and benefits during your transition. Here’s how you can navigate this pivotal moment with strategy and poise. Understanding Severance Packages A severance package is not just a goodbye; it’s a cushion for the blow of job loss. Typically, these packages include compensation based on years of service, continued health benefits, and, sometimes, unused vacation pay. Understanding the standard offerings in your industry ..read more

Being Donald Trump is getting even more expensive. The former president is a billionaire, but now he owes roughly $454 million (and counting, with more than $110,000 in interest accruing per day) to New York State after a judge found his companies guilty of repeated fraud. Trump also owes some $88 million to the writer E. Jean Carroll for sexual abuse and defamation verdicts against him. View Full Article ..read more