Labor & Employment

VIII-154 – Court Invalidates DOL's 2024 Overtime Salary Threshold Increases

In the latest episode of Employment Law Now, Michael Schmidt discusses how, on Friday, November 15, 2024, a federal court in Texas struck down the U.S. Department of Labor's 2024 regulations that significantly increased the minimum salary thresholds for federal overtime exemption status. He explains the court’s rationale and what’s next for employers in light of the decision.

Listen here.

Labor and employment is a constantly changing practice area governed by a profusion of interrelated federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Now more than ever counsel on the cutting edge is essential. Cozen O’Connor has a dedicated team of labor and employment lawyers who focus on keeping clients informed and protected.

Our full-service labor and employment department represents a broad range of entities: exchange-listed companies, private enterprises, nonprofits, governments, and trade associations. We handle high-stakes employment litigation, including individual and class claims of discrimination, harassment, wage and hour violations, defamation, wrongful discharge, and issues involving restrictive covenants, noncompetes, nonsolicitation, and nondisclosure of confidential information. We appear regularly before federal and state courts, agencies and departments (such as the EEOC, NLRB, DOL, IRS, OSHA, and ICE), and arbitrators. We also handle traditional labor law matters, helping employers foster positive workplace relations, negotiate collective bargaining agreements, and handle labor arbitrations and unfair labor practice proceedings.

When a specific labor or employment issue arises, clients immediately face the competing goals of vigorously refuting accusations or adverse precedents, and restoring a sense of calm and unity of purpose to the workplace. Cozen O’Connor attorneys guide clients through these and other complex situations and enable them to take decisive action without compromising operational effectiveness. We are keenly aware that the legal response must operate in harmony with the business goals.

One of our greatest assets in this endeavor is the depth of our trial and courtroom experience. We have dozens of lead attorneys who routinely appear in court, agency and arbitration proceedings, giving us tremendous insight into how a case is likely to play out in a litigation setting. That hard-earned knowledge serves our clients well as we partner with them to decide upon a strategic approach.

SERVICES

Employment Litigation

  • Investigate employee claims or government inquiries
  • Defend clients against individual or class (collective) action lawsuits
  • Represent employers in suits alleging discrimination and harassment on the basis of age, race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and other areas protected under federal, state and local law
  • Represent employers in cases involving defamation, invasion of privacy, trade secrets and restrictive covenants, duty-of-loyalty claims, equal-pay disputes, employment benefits disputes, pension and benefit plan fiduciary liability, wage-and-hour claims, whistle-blowers, and wrongful-discharge claims
  • Advocate for clients in trade secrets and restrictive covenant cases

Employer Advising, Training and Investigations

  • Assist in the resolution of individual workplace problems
  • Create effective employee benefits and executive compensation programs
  • Advise in-house counsel, human resources professionals, and executives in the development of sound personnel policies that limit liability and enhance productivity
  • Train staff to ensure fair and consistent enforcement of personnel policies
  • Perform workplace audits and internal investigations
  • Review and draft employment policies and manuals, as well as employment and termination/severance agreements

Labor Relations & Disputes

  • Help managers build cooperative relationships with their workforce, unionized or not
  • Advise clients on NLRB regulations and represent employers in inquiries and hearings
  • Evaluate and implement alternative labor-management relationships
  • Negotiate collective bargaining agreements and handle arbitration proceedings
  • Respond to strike threats, work stoppages and mass picketing
  • Defend employers against charges of unfair labor practices, including those alleging unlawful termination, failure to bargain in good faith, and interference with employee rights

CLIENTS

Our clients operate in diverse industries, including:

  • Chemical
  • Education
  • Energy and utilities
  • Financial services
  • Government
  • Health care
  • Hospitality
  • Retail
  • Technology
  • Transportation and logistics

TEAM

Our attorneys have been commended by independent legal observers for their “outstanding client service” and identified as some of the “most prominent employment defense attorneys” in the country. The team includes fellows of the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers and fellows of the American College of Trial Lawyers. Members of our team are regularly recognized by leading publications such as Chambers USA, Best LawyersSuper Lawyers, and others. Most recently, two senior members of the department were recognized among "The Nation's Top 100 Most Powerful Employment Attorneys" by Human Resource Executive magazine.

As many large law firms trim their labor and employment practices and once-small boutiques expand into national litigation factories, Cozen O’Connor is steadfast in its conviction that the most sophisticated labor and employment matters are best served by practitioners operating within a full-service firm. Our labor and employment attorneys work closely with their colleagues in corporate, tax, M&A, real estate, and antitrust law to see all sides of an issue and provide comprehensive analyses. In addition, Cozen O’Connor attorneys do not churn out canned solutions to generic problems. Our clients demand tailored, timely advice that is informed by a genuine understanding of their business – and that’s what we provide.

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Publications

VIII-154 - Court Invalidates DOL's 2024 Overtime Salary Threshold Increases [Employment Law Now Blog]

November 18, 2024

This past Friday, November 15, 2024, a federal court in Texas struck down on a nationwide basis the U.S. Department of Labor's 2024 regulations that significantly increased the minimum salary thresholds for federal law overtime exempt status. Today's episode discusses the court's rationale and what...

VIII-153 - NLRB General Counsel on Illegal "Stay or Pay" Employee Agreements [Employment Law Now Blog]

November 11, 2024

NLRB General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo joins me today to discuss her latest memorandum finding that "stay or pay" provisions in employee agreements constitute illegal noncompetes under the National Labor Relations Act. Download this episode....

VIII-152 - Part 2 of 2 on the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (Attorney Interview) [Employment Law Now Blog]

November 07, 2024

In this second of my two-part series on the federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), I am joined by my Cozen O'Connor colleague, Debbie Friedman, to discuss the scope of the PWFA from a practicing attorney's viewpoint and how employers should address common situations under that...

VIII-151 – EEOC Commissioner Interview: Part 1 of 2 on the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act [Employment Law Now Blog]

November 01, 2024

In this first of two parts on the federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), current Vice Chair of the EEOC Jocelyn Samuels discusses the regulations implementing the PWFA and how the PWFA differs from Title VII and the ADA, the common themes in the EEOC charges filed alleging violations of the...

NLRB General Counsel Issues Memorandum Arguing Noncompetes are Illegal [Alert]

October 17, 2024

Aaron Holt and Cassie Jacobsen discuss a recent memorandum from NLRB General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo about the legality of noncompetes.

OSHA Publishes the Top Ten Violations of 2024 [OSHA Chronicle Blog]

October 08, 2024

Following historical precedent, OSHA’s top ten cited violations for 2024 surprise no one. They all appeared on last year’s list, although their relative positions changed a bit. Fall protection (general requirements) remains the most cited citation and has held the spot for the fourteenth...

New California AI Laws Protect Against Unauthorized Use of AI Replicas [Alert]

September 25, 2024

John Carrigan, Jr. discusses California AB 1836 and 1602, which aim to protect against the unauthorized use of AI-generated digital replicas of a performer's voice or likeness.

New HIPAA Privacy Regulations Strengthen Privacy for Reproductive Health Care [Alert]

September 16, 2024

Lynn Brehm and Jenna Schaffer discuss the changes that come in response to growing concerns about the confidentiality of reproductive health services following the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision.

California and New York Pass Workplace Violence Laws: Is Federal OSHA Next? [OSHA Chronicle Blog]

September 13, 2024

When California’s workplace violence prevention law took effect on July 1, 2024, it joined a handful of other states, including Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, and Washington, that have some type of similar law. On September 4, 2024, Governor Hochul signed into law...

Annual Limit Reached for All Immigrant Visa Categories for FY2024 [Alert]

September 12, 2024

DOS and USCIS have announced that all available immigrant visas in the employment-based categories have now been issued for the 2024 fiscal year.

VIII-150 - The FTC Noncompete Rule is Dead: What Now? [Employment Law Now Blog]

September 10, 2024

In this special 150th podcast episode, I am joined by my Cozen O'Connor colleagues David Barron and Jim Gale to discuss what is left of the FTC noncompete rule, if anything, and what employers should be doing next with the rule in the rearview mirror. Download this episode....

OSHA’s New Severe Injury Report Dashboard: More Public Shaming or a Tool to Help Prevent Injuries/Illnesses? [OSHA Chronicle Blog]

September 05, 2024

OSHA requires employers to report a fatality or severe injury (“SIR”). Generally, a fatality must be reported within 8 hours and an in-patient hospitalization, amputation, or eye loss must be reported within 24 hours. Information about the SIR requirement can be found here...

VIII-149 - Part 2 of 2: The Final Interview With EEOC Commissioner Keith Sonderling [Employment Law Now Blog]

September 05, 2024

Today is Part 2 of 2, following yesterday's episode. As his term as EEOC Commissioner ended at the end of August 2024, (former) EEOC Commissioner Keith Sonderling joined the podcast one last time to discuss a wide range of important employment issues, including court deference to federal agencies,...

VIII-148- Part 1 of 2: The Final Interview With EEOC Commissioner Keith Sonderling [Employment Law Now Blog]

September 04, 2024

As his term as EEOC Commissioner ended at the end of August 2024, (former) EEOC Commissioner Keith Sonderling joined the podcast one last time to discuss a wide range of important employment issues, including court deference to federal agencies, the use of agency opinion letters, continued...

Massachusetts Enacts New Pay Transparency Requirements for Employers [Alert]

September 03, 2024

Eliza Estrella and Walter Foster discuss Massachusetts' new pay transparency law and what employers need to know.

How Anti-DEI Bill Could Affect Employers' Diversity Efforts

August 28, 2024

Peter Ennis authored a Law360 article discussing The Dismantle DEI Act of 2024, a proposed legislation aimed at curbing the implementation and promotion of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices across federal agencies, contractors, and grant recipients.

VIII-147- All For Naught: FTC Noncompete Rule Struck Down [Employment Law Now Blog]

August 21, 2024

Just yesterday afternoon (and 11 days earlier than expected), the federal judge in Texas struck down the FTC's noncompete rule and prohibited the FTC from enforcing its non-compete rule nationwide. In this new episode, I talk about what the court did and what it means now for non-compete...

FTC’s Final Rule Banning Employee Noncompete Agreements Struck Down [Alert]

August 21, 2024

Aaron Holt, Mike Schmidt, and David Barron discuss the Northern District of Texas striking down the FTC's Final Rule with nationwide effect.

VIII-146 - Latest Update on FTC Non-Compete Ban Plus 3 Summer Reminders for Employers [Employment Law Now Blog]

August 19, 2024

This episode provides the latest update on the FTC non-compete ban scheduled to go into effect on September 4, 2024, the likelihood that it will go into effect, and what employers should be doing about it right now, plus three other employment law reminders that employers should...

Washington Court Deems Posting of IME Videos on Social Media Free Speech [Alert]

August 19, 2024

Bill Walsh discusses a recent Washington Court of Appeals ruling that a state law prohibiting injured workers from posting Independent Medical Examination (IME) videos on social media is an unconstitutional violation of free speech rights.

#NoFilter: Outside-of-Work Social Media Posts Can Create a Hostile Work Environment [Alert]

August 15, 2024

Aaron Holt discusses the court's expanded definition of a hostile work environment which includes social media posts made by an employee outside of work.

New Illinois Law Limits Employer Speech in the Workplace [Alert]

August 13, 2024

Illinois' Worker Freedom of Speech Act prohibits employers from holding mandatory meetings to discuss company views on religious and political matters, including union membership.

Focus On Political Stances May Weaken Labor Unions

August 09, 2024

Daniel Johns authored a Law360 article discussing the proposed Union Members Right to Know Act, which aims to enhance transparency and accountability within unions by requiring them to inform members of their rights.

OSHA Opines When Motor Vehicle Injuries Are Work-Related [OSHA Chronicle Blog]

July 30, 2024

In a recent standard interpretation dated June 12, 2024, OSHA clarified the circumstances when a motor vehicle injury and fatality would be considered work-related. In doing so, OSHA restated the general principle that injuries that occur when an employee is on travel status are work-related, if,...

PAGA Reform: A Win for Employers in California [Alert]

July 16, 2024

Michele Miller and Brett Greving discuss the new reforms to PAGA (California's Private Attorneys General Act) and what the impact will be on employers.

VIII-145 - Status Update: Injunctions for FTC Noncompete Ban and DOL Overtime Exemption Regs [Employment Law Now Blog]

July 08, 2024

Where are things right now with the injunction decisions on the FTC's noncompete ban and the DOL's new overtime exemption regulations? Today's new episode provides the latest updates, while also discussing the Supreme Court's end-of-term decision with significant ramifications, and what employers...

OSHA Publishes Proposed Heat Standard [Alert]

July 08, 2024

John Ho discusses OHSA's new proposed national heat illness and injury standards.

NLRB 10(j) Injunctions Must Meet the Traditional Injunction Test [Alert]

June 20, 2024

Dan Johns and Kelly Kindig discuss the Supreme Court's recent ruling that district courts must use the traditional four-factor test for preliminary injunctions sought by the NLRB.

OSHA Issues Guidance On Whether Musculoskeletal Treatments Are Recordable [OSHA Chronicle Blog]

June 12, 2024

In an enforcement memorandum dated May 2, 2024, OSHA provided guidance on whether musculoskeletal injuries are recordable under three treatment scenarios: first aid, Active Release Technique (ART) (massage that targets soft tissues), and exercises and stretching. In doing so, OSHA reminded...

OSHA Mid-Year Rulemaking Update [OSHA Chronicle Blog]

May 22, 2024

As we head into the midway point of 2024, we wanted to provide a brief update on significant OSHA rulemaking developments. Heat Stress: OSHA recently took a critical step in implementing its long-awaited heat stress rule by presenting the draft rule’s initial regulatory framework at a meeting of...

New York Is First State to Offer Employees Paid Prenatal Personal Leave

May 14, 2024

Janice Agresti discusses New York State's new requirement that private employers offer their employees a paid prenatal personal leave entitlement.

FTC Issues Final Rule Banning Employee Non-Compete Agreements [Alert]

April 25, 2024

The FTC has issued a Final Rule banning all new noncompete agreements for workers, including senior executives, effective 120 days after publication in the Federal Register.

Employers Beware Of NLRB Changes On Bad Faith Bargaining [Law360]

April 10, 2024

Daniel Johns authored a Law360 article discussing the National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) recent focus on holding employers accountable for bad-faith bargaining.

The Only Constant is Change: Colorado Employment Law Updates [Alert]

March 20, 2024

A comprehensive overview of Colorado employment law changes and updates.

The Five Work Languages: A Guide for the Legal Profession to Bridge Generational Gaps

February 15, 2024

Nicole Su and Honorable Judge Stephanie Jones co-authored a white paper on bridging the gap between generations within the legal landscape.

Supreme Court Defines "Contributing Factor" Standard in Whistleblower Cases [Alert]

February 13, 2024

The Supreme Court issued its long-awaiting decision in Murray v. UBS Securities, lowering the bar for whistleblowers to win retaliation claims, requiring only "contributing factor," not "retaliatory intent."

FY2025 H-1B Lottery Registration Begins [Alert]

February 05, 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced that the initial registration period for the FY2025 H-1B Cap Lottery will open on March 6, 2024, and run through March 22, 2024.

USCIS Fee Increase: What You Need to Know to Plan Your 2024 Immigration Budget [Alert]

January 31, 2024

Scott Bettridge and David Adams discuss the USCIS fee increases and what you need to know to plan your 2024 immigration budget.

ETIAS Will Launch in 2025: Impact on Over 1 Billion Travelers to Europe [Alert]

January 19, 2024

The European Travel Information and Authorization System roll-out has been postponed to 2025. Scott Bettridge and David Adams discuss what to expect.

NLRA Expansion May Come With Risks For Workers [Law360]

January 08, 2024

Daniel Johns authored an article about the rapid expansion of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) coverage and how it affects the workplace.

And a (Happy?) New Year! [Alert]

January 03, 2024

Cassie Jacobsen offers a comprehensive overview of crucial updates to employment law in Minnesota that businesses should be mindful of in 2024.

Renewal of H-1B Nonimmigrant Visas in the United States [Alert]

January 03, 2024

Kelli Natrin and Fran Rayer discuss the Department of State's domestic visa renewal pilot program to alleviate backlogs and wait times at consulates abroad.

H-1B Worker Domestic Visa Renewal Pilot Program [Alert]

December 04, 2023

The State Department recently announced a new pilot program for H-1B visa holders allowing them to renew their H-1B visa stamps while remaining in the U.S.

Fifth Circuit Refuses to Enforce the NLRB’s Ban on Uniform Requirements [Alert]

November 27, 2023

Aaron Holt and Silvia Chicas discuss the Fifth Circuit’s decision in Tesla, Inc. v. National Labor Relations Board, which is a victory for employers seeking to enforce their uniform requirement.

Generative AI and Its Workplace Implications

November 15, 2023

Nandini Sane contributed an article to The Houston Lawyer discussing the rapid advancement of generative AI.

Cozen O'Connor Immigration Catch Up: October 2023 [Alert]

November 06, 2023

Scott Bettridge and David Adams highlight immigration updates from the month of October.

USCIS Offers Clarification of Policy on L-1 Petition [Alert]

October 23, 2023

Last week, USCIS issued policy guidance clarifying two points with respect to the L-1 petition for intracompany transferees.

New Law in NY Prohibits Certain Employee Invention Assignment Agreements [Alert]

October 16, 2023

Michael Schmidt discusses the new law that will impact long-held policies and practices and require employers to review their policies and form agreements.

Cozen O'Connor Immigration Catch Up: September 2023 [Alert]

October 04, 2023

Scott Bettridge and David Adams highlight immigration updates from the month of September.

2025 Diversity Visa Lottery Registration [Alert]

October 02, 2023

Frances Rayer and Elizabeth Olivera outline the process for the 2025 Diversity Immigrant Visa Program/Green Card Lottery, opening on Thursday, October 5, 2023.

NLRB GC Brief Portends Hefty Labor Law Transformation [Law360]

September 08, 2023

Daniel Johns authored an article about an April brief filed with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) on behalf of NLRB general counsel Jennifer Abruzzo.

AI in the Workplace: Benefits and Potential Drawbacks [Daily Business Review]

August 30, 2023

Sam Edelstein authored an article about the impact of artificial intelligence on the workplace.

USCIS Field Office Appointments Can Now Be Scheduled Online [Alert]

August 22, 2023

USCIS announced a new online form for individuals, attorneys, and accredited representatives to request an in-person appointment without having to call.

Third Circuit Court Opines on Donning and Doffing Under FLSA [Alert]

August 22, 2023

The Third Circuit Court of Appeals clarified when employee's donning and doffing activities may be compensable under the Fair Labor Standards Act, establishing that assessing a job’s risks is, in and of itself, insufficient for determining whether changing into and out of gear is compensable.

Fifth Circuit Overturns Ultimate Employer Decision Requirement, Expanding Anti-Bias Rights [Alert]

August 21, 2023

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed its precedent on limited adverse employment actions such as hiring, firing, and promotions, changing the landscape of all employment discrimination claims brought in the Fifth Circuit.

Virtual Form I-9 Inspection Pilot Program for Non-E-Verify Employers [Alert]

August 03, 2023

DHS has proposed a new pilot program for virtual Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification inspections that would apply to employers not currently enrolled in E-Verify.

SCOTUS: Denial of Religious Accommodation Requires More Than De Minimis Cost to Employers [Alert]

July 06, 2023

The Supreme Court has ruled that employers can no longer use a de minimis increase in cost as a defense for not providing a religious accommodation.

Understanding the stages of brief [Minnesota State Bar Association]

July 05, 2023

Cassandra Jacobsen co-authored an article about the "stages of brief" she and other lawyers go through when assigned a substantial writing project.

New York Assembly Passes Bill to Ban Non-Competes [Alert]

June 22, 2023

On June 20, 2023, the New York State Assembly passed S3100A (Ryan)/A1278B (Joyner) on non-compete agreements and certain restrictive covenants.

Non-Competes: The NLRB Has Entered The Chat [Alert]

June 09, 2023

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has issued a memorandum that could make it more difficult for employers to enforce non-compete agreements.

A Third Party in New Jersey May be Unable to Avoid Fee Awards Under an Exception to the American Rule [Alert]

May 23, 2023

The New Jersey Appellate Court ruled that, under an exception to the American Rule, a third party can be liable for attorneys’ fees in certain situations.

What Minnesota’s Imminent Ban on Non-Competes Means for Employers [Alert]

May 18, 2023

Minnesota’s employment landscape is on the brink of significant transformation as proposed legislation banning almost all non-compete agreements progresses.

Florida Bill 1718: Potential Impact on Employers and Employees in Florida [Alert]

May 12, 2023

The bill targets the influx of illegal immigration into the state with tougher employment requirements and adding some of the strongest penalties in the nation.

I-9 Inspection Changes Beginning August 30, 2023 [Alert]

May 10, 2023

DHS and ICE announced that employers will have 30 days to reach compliance with Form I-9 requirements after the COVID-19 flexibilities sunset on July 31, 2023.

FY2024 H-1B Registration Recap [Alert]

May 10, 2023

USCIS received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach the FY 2024 H-1B cap.

NLRB GC Memos Complicate Labor Law Compliance [Law360]

May 10, 2023

Daniel Johns authored an article discussing the concerns raised by the current National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) General Counsel memos.

NLRB Makes it Harder to Discipline Employees who Engage in Abusive Behavior [Alert]

May 04, 2023

The NRLB recently revisited the issue of what happens when an employee engages in abusive or inappropriate conduct while protected by Section 7 of the NLRA.

State and Local Legislators Are the ‘Tail Wagging the Dog’ When It Comes to Federal Employment Litigation Impacting Retailers [Retail Industry Leaders Association]

April 19, 2023

Michael Schmidt, Steven Millman, and Austin Dieter authored an article about the unprecedented number of state and local laws that retail employers face.

USCIS Extends Temporary Suspension of Biometrics Submission [Alert]

April 19, 2023

USCIS has extended the temporary suspension of the biometrics submission requirement for certain applicants filing Form I-539.

USCIS Removed 60-Day Rule for Form I-693 [Alert]

April 05, 2023

USCIS announced it will be issuing policy guidance to remove the requirement that the civil surgeon's signature be dated no more than 60 days before filing.

Selecting Gender on USCIS Forms [Alert]

April 05, 2023

USCIS announced requestors may select their gender on USCIS forms (or change a prior gender selection) without the need to provide supporting documentation.

USCIS Updates Policy on Time Frames for Paper-Based Filings and Responses [Alert]

March 31, 2023

USCIS announced that it will now consider a filing or response submitted on paper timely if it is received by the end of the next business day.

USCIS Ends COVID-Related Flexibilities [Alert]

March 28, 2023

USCIS announced that certain flexibilities it first announced in March 2020 to address the COVID-19 pandemic will end on March 23, 2023.

USCIS Completes H-1B FY24 CAP Initial Electronic Registration Selection Process [Alert]

March 28, 2023

USCIS announced it received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach FY2024 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B Cap).

NLRB Issues Guidance on Non-Disparagement & Confidentiality Clauses [Alert]

March 23, 2023

The NLRB recently overturned decades of precedent to hold that non-disparagement and confidentiality provisions are broadly unlawful when imposed on employees.

Evidence of Status for Legal Permanent Residents [Alert]

March 22, 2023

USCIS recently announced a new process for lawful permanent residents to receive temporary evidence of their lawful permanent resident status by mail.

Third Circuit Rules PTO Not Salary in Win For Employers [Alert]

March 20, 2023

The U.S Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit held that paid time off does not constitute salary for purposes of the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Illinois to Implement Guaranteed Paid Leave for All Workers [Alert]

March 15, 2023

Employers statewide who do not currently offer paid leaves equal to or in excess of 40 hours per year should make appropriate preparations to comply.

Off-Duty Recreational Cannabis Use [Practical Law The Journal]

March 01, 2023

Ed Langhammer contributed to the March edition of the GC Agenda about California law AB 2188.

Secure Act 2.0 [Alert]

February 23, 2023

SECURE Act 2.0 is one of the most significant pieces of retirement plan legislation in recent memory and contains new rules impacting every kind of retirement plan.

Ninth Circuit Nixes California’s AB 51, Reopening the Door for Mandatory Employment Arbitration [Alert]

February 16, 2023

A Ninth Circuit panel ruled that California’s Assembly Bill (AB) 51 was preempted by the Federal Arbitration Act (FAA) and is unenforceable.

Biometrics Update: Class Plaintiffs Have 5 Years to Bring Claims Under Illinois’s BIPA [Alert]

February 06, 2023

Max Kaplan discusses the Supreme Court of Illinois's decision in Tims v. Black Horse Carriers, Inc., ruling that BIPA is subject to the five-year, catch-all statute of limitations.

How Cos. Can Avoid Sinking In The Union Organizing Storm [Law360]

February 02, 2023

Daniel Johns authored an article about the rise in union organizing and how employers can handle it.

FY2024 H-1B Cap Lottery Registration [Alert]

January 30, 2023

USCIS announced that the initial registration period for the FY2024 H-1B Cap Lottery will begin on March 1, 2023, and run through March 17, 2023.

Department of Labor Proposes New Self-Correction Option for Retirement Plan Prohibited Transactions [Alert]

January 27, 2023

The U.S. Department of Labor has proposed an update to its voluntary fiduciary corrections program to allow fiduciaries to correct errors in retirement plans.

USCIS Will Bundle Processing of I-129, I-539, and I-765 Applications [Alert]

January 25, 2023

As the result of a settlement of a class action lawsuit challenging H-4 and L-2 adjudication delays, USCIS has agreed to resume bundling some applications.

USCIS Extends Green Card Validity for Some Conditional Permanent Residents [Alert]

January 24, 2023

USCIS announced it will extend the validity of Green Cards for those who properly file Form I-751 for 48 months beyond the card’s expiration date.

CA Court of Appeal Calls Into Question Evidentiary Value of E-Signatures [Alert]

January 24, 2023

The California Court of Appeal recently issued a troubling decision regarding the evidentiary value of electronic signatures.

IRS Proposes to Permanently Allow Remote Witnessing of Spousal Consents [Alert]

January 18, 2023

On December 29, 2022, the IRS issued proposed regulations that would permanently allow retirement plans to accept remote participant elections and spousal consents.

USCIS Announces Final Phase of Premium Processing Expansion [Alert]

January 13, 2023

USCIS announced it is implementing the final phase of its planned premium processing expansion for Form I-140.

Four Things You Need to Know About Website Accessibility Claims in California [Alert]

January 11, 2023

When businesses fail to ensure that their website are accessible to the visually impaired, they risk facing a barrage of expensive lawsuits.

Will Pay Transparency Laws Level the Playing Field? [Alert]

January 10, 2023

The new pay transparency laws across the country may point to a cultural shift underway toward an expectation of transparency and a desire to reduce the pay gap.

FTC Proposes Rule to Ban or Limit Non-Compete Agreements [Alert]

January 09, 2023

President Biden's Executive Order in July 2021 encouraged the FTC to ban or limit non-compete agreements. The FTC proposed the ban on January 5, 2023.

USCIS Proposes Rule to Adjust Certain Immigration and Naturalization Fees [Alert]

January 09, 2023

USCIS published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to adjust certain benefit request fees, which haven’t been changed since 2016.

Update to California’s New Pay Disclosure Requirements [Alert]

January 05, 2023

Senate Bill 1162 imposes significant new pay scale disclosure requirements on California employers.

Free speech, the Supreme Court and social media, oh my! [Benefits Pro]

January 05, 2023

Aaron Holt authored an article on the future of online speech and regulations.

What’s New in Workplace Safety, Pay Equity, and Job Classification [Bloomberg Law]

January 03, 2023

John Ho and Janice Sued Agresti highlight what employers can expect in the year ahead from OSHA and the Department of Labor on workplace safety, pay equity, and employee classification.

USCIS Updates Policy to Automatically Extend Green Cards for Naturalization Applicants [Alert]

December 12, 2022

Effective Dec. 12, 2022, USCIS will automatically extend the validity of Green Cards for lawful permanent residents who have applied for naturalization.

Non-U.S. Nonimmigrants to Provide Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination [Alert]

November 09, 2022

The TSA has extended the requirement for all nonimmigrant foreign nationals to present proof of being fully vaccinated prior to entering the United States.

Don't Ignore NLRA When Using Employee Resource Groups [Law360]

November 03, 2022

Daniel Johns authored an article about how employee resource groups (ERGs) have become one of the primary methods employers use to engage employees and increase morale in the workplace.

New Posting Requirement for Federal Contractors [Alert]

October 31, 2022

The EEOC has issued an updated “Know Your Rights” poster, revised as of October 20, 2022.

New Jersey Health Care Entities Should Add New Employee Protections to Their Due Diligence Checklists [Alert]

October 28, 2022

New Jersey Senate Bill No. 315 creates broad protections for many employees in the health care sector in the event of a change in control.

California Time Rounding Policies – The Beginning of the End? [Alert]

October 28, 2022

The California 6th District Court of Appeal recently ruled that where an employer could track the exact time in minutes that an employee worked each shift.

USCIS Announces Extension of Certain Flexibilities [Alert]

October 26, 2022

USCIS granted 60 more days to respond to Notices of Intent to Deny/Revoke/Rescind & Requests for Evidence if issued between March 1, 2020, and January 24, 2023.

DHS Extends Form I-9 Flexibility through July 31, 2023 [Alert]

October 18, 2022

DHS and ICE announced that an extension of the Form I-9 flexibilities will continue for another nine months until July 31, 2023.

New California Laws to Close out 2022 and Usher in the New Year [Alert]

October 17, 2022

A slew of employment law bills were signed into law by Governor Newsom as we close out 2022 and begin a new year in 2023.

Employee Benefits in Bankruptcy - Portfolio 380 [Bloomberg Tax]

October 17, 2022

Matthew Clyde co-authored the Bloomberg Tax Portfolio addressing the interplay of benefits and bankruptcy law.

Can Pay Transparency Shatter the Glass Ceiling? [Daily Journal]

October 12, 2022

Elena Hillman, Jake Rubinstein, and Janice Agresti authored an article on what pay transparency could mean for states.

Diversity 2024 Immigrant Visa Lottery Program Announced [Alert]

October 07, 2022

Although the current administration has stated its desire to eliminate the DV Lottery program, it will go forward this year.

#NoFilter: Can States Regulate the Content of Social Media Platforms?

October 05, 2022

A recent decision from the Fifth Circuit upheld a Texas state law impacting the power of social media platforms to moderate content on their platforms.

USCIS Extends Temporary Waiver for Medical Examinations [Alert]

October 04, 2022

USCIS will extend the temporary waiver of the "60-day rule" for Form I-693.

USCIS Extends Validity Period for Green Card Renewals [Alert]

September 29, 2022

Effective September 26, 2022, USCIS began automatically extending the validity of Green Cards to 24 months for lawful permanent residents who file a Form I-90.

Update on USCIS Expansion of Premium Processing [Alert]

September 19, 2022

On September 15, 2022, USCIS announced the next phase of the premium processing expansion for certain petitioners.

NLRB Proposes New Joint Employer Standard, Requiring Mere “Indirect” Control [Alert]

September 12, 2022

The NLRB issued an NPRM that would broaden the standard for determining whether two employers are joint employers under the National Labor Relations Act.

USCIS Has Used Nearly All Employment-Based Immigrant Visas for FY2022 [Alert]

September 08, 2022

On 9/6/22, USCIS announced it has used nearly all available EB visas for this fiscal year and will exhaust the 281,507 EB visas by the end of the month.

NLRB Strikes Down Tesla’s Dress Code, Employees Can Wear Labor Insignia [Alert]

September 06, 2022

The National Labor Relations Board recently reaffirmed employees’ right to wear union insignia at work and found that Tesla, Inc. violated federal labor law.

Is Your EEO-1 Report At Risk of Disclosure?

August 31, 2022

The OFCCP informed all federal contractors that a FOIA request seeking contractor data from '16-'20 was submitted. Contractors must file objections by 9/19/22.

When to Start the Perm Process for H-1B and L-1B Foreign National Workers [ACC]

August 18, 2022

David Adams authored an article about employers who employ or wants to employ a foreign worker for permanent residence.

3rd Circ. Ruling Shows Limits Of Regulating Employer Speech [Law360]

July 29, 2022

Daniel Johns authored an article on the recent decision from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit in FDRLST Media LLC v. National Labor Relations Board.

I-9 Deadline Approaching: Updates due July 31, 2022 [Alert]

July 19, 2022

On July 6, 2022, DHS announced that employers are required to update their Forms I-9 by July 31, 2022, for all employees who completed their I-9 verifications with expired documents between May 1, 2020, and April 30, 2022.

Expansion of Premium Processing for Certain Previously Filed EB-1 and EB-2 I-140 Petitions Continues [Alert]

July 18, 2022

We previously alerted our readership in May 2022 that USCIS was implementing premium processing for certain I-140 petitions in the EB-1 and EB-2 categories. The availability of premium processing for previously filed I-140 petitions referred only to EB-1 multinational executive and manager I-140 petitions and EB-2 petitions filed for advanced degree professionals or members of the professions with an advanced degree or exceptional ability petitions seeking a national interest waiver.

5 Tips For Employers Regulating Employee Speech Online [Law360]

June 24, 2022

Aaron Holt authored an article about how courts are increasingly being asked to address employment matters involving speech on social media.

Seventh Circuit Clarifies that Denial of Leave is Not Necessary for an FMLA Interference Claim [Alert]

June 21, 2022

Abigail Green discusses the Seventh Circuit's decision in Salvatore Ziccarelli v. Thomas J. Dart, et al.

US Supreme Court Places Limits on California’s PAGA Law [Alert]

June 16, 2022

The Supreme Court ruled that the FAA overrules CA Supreme Court authority limiting arbitration agreements in representative actions under PAGA.

Circuit Court Clarifies Employer Burdens in Religious Accommodation Cases [Alert]

June 03, 2022

In Groff v. DeJoy, a Third Circuit Court of Appeals decision gives very practical guidance for how to respond to religious accommodation claims.

USCIS to Implement Premium Processing for Certain Petitions [Alert]

May 25, 2022

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced premium processing for certain petitioners.

#No Filter: Regulating an Employer’s Social Media Posts [Blog Post]

May 25, 2022

A May 20, 2022 decision from the Third Circuit Court of Appeals impacts the limits of permissible speech by employers on social media.

How Pennsylvania Women Can Achieve Equal Pay

May 24, 2022

Kathy Jaffari co-authored an article published in The Philadelphia Inquirer discussing the wage gap in Pennsylvania and the steps that need to be taken to narrow it. Kathy and her co-author, Judy Berkman, are co-chairs of the Women’s Rights Committee of the Philadelphia Bar Association.

California Supreme Court Expands Penalties For Meal and Rest Violations

May 24, 2022

The California Supreme Court recently resolved a long-standing wage and hour question regarding meal and rest period violations.

Does PAGA Have Wings? Bernstein’s Threat to Interstate Airlines

May 16, 2022

California's Private Attorneys General Act may pave the way for geographically extended enforcement of California labor laws.

USCIS Increases Automatic Extension Period of Employment Authorization Docs

May 04, 2022

This May, USCIS announced a Temporary Final Rule increasing the automatic extension period for certain Employment Authorization Documents for up to 540 days.

DHS Extends Form I-9 Flexibility through October 31, 2022

April 28, 2022

On April 25, 2022, DHS and ICE announced an extension of flexibilities of the Form I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form until October 31, 2022.

The TEAM Act Brings Us Back To The Future Again [Law360]

April 26, 2022

Daniel Johns authored an article about the recently introduced Teamwork for Employees and Managers Act (TEAM) — which would legalize employee involvement committees, an employer-friendly alternative to unions.

Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission to Require Diversity Reporting

April 25, 2022

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission will be requiring major jurisdictional public utilities to file annual diversity reports beginning March 2023.

Accommodation vs Personal Benefit: Federal Court Weighs In

April 07, 2022

Sam Edelstein discusses the decision in Hopman v. Union Pacific Railroad.

Release of New Proposed Rules: Electronic Submittal of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses to OSHA [Alert]

March 30, 2022

Jim Sullivan, John Ho, and Anne Greene discuss OSHA's new proposed rules regarding electronic recordkeeping requirements.

Philadelphia City Council Extending COVID-19 Leave Until December 2023 [Alert]

March 28, 2022

On March 3, 2022, Council amended Philadelphia’s Public Health Emergency Leave Ordinance and created a specific COVID-19 sick leave protection.

A Fast Food Employer’s Guide to NYC’s Recently Upheld Wrongful Discharge Law [Alert]

March 01, 2022

Janice Agresti discusses the U.S. District Court of Southern New York's ruling that the Wrongful Discharge Law is constitutional because it minimally burdens interstate commerce.

Prohibiting Arbitration of Sexual Harassment at Forefront of Amendment to Federal Arbitration Act [Alert]

February 15, 2022

Arielle Eisenberg discusses H.R. 4445, an amendment to the Federal Arbitration Act (FAA) otherwise known as the “Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act of 2021.”

Illinois Equal Pay Law Changes Complicate Compliance [Law360]

February 09, 2022

Jeremy Glenn, Brittany Green, and Sydney Holman co-authored an article on Illinois' legislative action toward employee pay equality with sweeping amendments in 2021 to the state Equal Pay Act.

Tax Abatement Crunch Time: When Must Coops and Condos Pay Their Employees Prevailing Wages? [Alert]

February 04, 2022

Leni Cummins and Jennifer Miller discuss Section 467-a of the Real Property Tax Law and the prevailing wage affidavit condo and coop boards must submit to qualify for the tax abatement.

Labor Arbitration For Virtual Work Issues Can Be Tricky [Law360]

February 01, 2022

Daniel Johns authored an article about how the rise of virtual workplaces during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to confusion for labor arbitrators who need to determine liability for off-duty misconduct.

Illinois Employers See Equal Pay Certification Looming on the Horizon [Alert]

January 28, 2022

Jeremy Glenn and Brittany Green discuss what employers in Illinois need to know about the EPA amendments.

Supreme Court Allows CMS Vaccine Directive To Go Forward [Alert]

January 19, 2022

Anne Greene, John Ho, and Jim Sullivan discuss the Supreme Court decision to allow the CMS vaccine directive to go forward.

Designating Unvaccinated Employees as a ‘Direct Threat’ to Others [Bloomberg Law]

January 12, 2022

James Sullivan authored an article about if an unvaccinated employee is a “direct threat” to the health and safety of themselves or others in the workplace.

It’s a New Year – With Many New State Minimum Wage Laws [Alert]

January 05, 2022

George Voegele discusses various state and local wage and hour laws that went into effect on January 1, 2022, or will go into effect in 2022.

Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals Lifts OSHA’s ETS Stay: What Now? [Alert]

December 21, 2021

John Ho and Jim Sullivan discuss the Sixth Circuit lifting the Fifth Circuit's stay of OSHA’s general duty COVID Emergency Testing Standard.

NYC Implements Wide-Ranging Pandemic Restrictions, Including Private Sector Vaccine Mandate [Alert}

December 09, 2021

John Ho, Janice Agresti, and Jim Sullivan discuss Mayor de Blasio's expansion to the “Key to New York City” program.

Florida Law Prohibits Vaccination Mandate Without Five Specific Individual Exemptions [Alert]

November 23, 2021

John Ho and Jim Sullivan discuss Florida Governor DeSantis’s recent legislation banning employers from mandating COVID-19 vaccinations unless several exemptions are offered to employees.

California Employers Can Let Cal/OSHA Know Federal OSHA COVID-19 ETS Potential Workplace Impacts [Alert]

November 15, 2021

Ed Langhammer, John Ho, and Jim Sullivan discuss Cal/OSHA agenda item “Proposed Emergency Safety Orders for Adoption,” and how California employers can weigh in on how these regulations will impact them.

Court Affirms Stay of OSHA Vaccinate-or-Test Emergency Temporary Standard [Alert]

November 15, 2021

John Ho and Jim Sullivan discuss the Fifth Circuit's stay of OSHA's ETS and what happens next.

How Labor Law May Affect Your COVID Vaccine Mandate [Law360]

October 29, 2021

Daniel Johns authored an article discussing labor law considerations surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine mandates in the workplace.

COVID-19 Vaccination: The EEOC’s Long-Awaited Religious Exemption Guidance [Alert]

October 27, 2021

Janice Agresti discusses the EEOC's guidance for employers when an employee requests a religious exemption from the COVID-19 vaccination.

FAQ: Texas Executive Order Restricting Mandatory Vaccination Policies [Alert]

October 13, 2021

Aaron Holt answers questions employers may have about Texas's Executive Order No. GA-40.

Lawsuits Fighting OSHA Covid-19 Vaccine Standard May Not Matter [Bloomberg Law]

September 24, 2021

Jim Sullivan authored an article detailing that six of just nine emergency temporary standards issued by OSHA since the 1970s have been challenged in courts, and only one has been upheld.

White House Announces OSHA ETS Mandating Vaccinations or Weekly Testing for Most Workers [Alert]

September 10, 2021

Jim Sullivan discusses Biden's EO mandating all employers with more than 100 employees require every employee to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or to test negative every week.

OSHA’s Updated COVID-19 Guidelines for Employers and What They Mean [PICPA]

September 08, 2021

Debra Friedman authored an article about OSHA's latest COVID-19 guidance for non-health care employers and employees and how it is causing employers to reevaluate their return-to-work policies and procedures.

Under Biden, Nonunion Employers Can't Ignore Labor Law [Law360]

August 04, 2021

Daniel Johns authored an article on how the Biden administration impacts nonunion employers.

DOJ Approves Employers’ COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements [Alert]

August 03, 2021

Ben Shechtman discusses the DOJ's memorandum opinion stating employers may require that employees be vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to the requirements that they provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs that preclude vaccination.

California Supreme Court Targets Meal and Rest Premium Pay Practices [Alert]

July 16, 2021

Brett Greving, Elena Hillman, and Jason Barsanti discuss the California Supreme Court's decision in Ferra v. Loews Hollywood Hotels, LLC.

NYS DOL Publishes Model Airborne Infectious Disease Exposure Prevention Plan Under HERO [Alert]

July 14, 2021

John Ho discusses the Department of Labor for the state of New York"s model Airborne Infectious Disease Exposure Prevention Plan under the New York Health and Essential Rights Act and what employers should do now to comply.

OSHA’s New COVID-19 Guidelines and What They Mean for Employers [Alert]

June 16, 2021

Dave Barron discusses new OSHA guidance for vaccinated workers.

A Revised Post-Coronavirus Return to Work Checklist [Alert]

June 07, 2021

In light of recent guidance issued by the Center for Disease Control and the EEOC, we have updated our Return to Work Checklist.

Need an Infectious Disease Prevention Plan? In New York, You Soon Will under the HERO Act [Alert]

May 14, 2021

John Ho, Jim Sullivan, and Anne Greene discuss New York's HERO Act and what employers should do now to comply.

New Executive Order Requires Many Federal Contractors to Increase Minimum Wage for Workers by 2022 [Alert]

April 28, 2021

Bob Magovern and Matt Howell discuss Biden's executive order increasing the minimum wage for federal contactors.

3 Decisions A Biden NLRB Will Likely Overturn [Law360]

April 26, 2021

Daniel Johns authored an article about the Biden administration's intent to promote and seek passage of the Protecting the Right to Organize Act.

OSHA Adds a New Consideration for Employers Related to Adverse Reactions to Vaccines [Alert]

April 26, 2021

John Ho and James Sullivan discuss OSHA's guidance for employers considering requiring employees to get vaccinated.

Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals Refuses to Extend ADA Liability to Websites [Alert]

April 23, 2021

Arielle Eisenberg and Corinne Zucker discuss the possible implications of the Eleventh Circuit's decision in Juan Carlos Gil v. Winn-Dixie Stores, Inc.

Circuit Court of Appeals Upholds Dismissal of ADA Lawsuit for Failure to Exhaust Administrative Remedies

April 07, 2021

Joseph Quinn discusses the Simko v. U.S. Steel Corp decision and what it means for employers.

Getting Your Workforce Vaccinated Without Getting Sued [Century City Bar Association]

March 31, 2021

John Carrigan, Jr. wrote an article about the COVID-19 vaccine and employers looking to a vaccine as a way to keep their workforce and customers safe may face an uphill battle.

California Enacts New COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Requirements With Retroactive Application

March 29, 2021

Nicole Perkin and Elena Hillman discuss SB 95, which continues and expands the requirements for COVID-19-related sick pay as mandated previously by the federal FFCRA and California’s AB 1867, both of which expired on December 31, 2020.

Christopher Hennessy and Jeremy Glenn contributed an article to the Illinois State Bar Association L&E Newsletter

March 18, 2021

Christopher Hennessy and Jeremy Glenn contributed an article to the Illinois State Bar Association's (ISBA) Labor and Employment Law Newsletter discussing a recent bill introduced in the Illinois Legislature that, if made into law, would rewrite significant aspects of the law of restrictive covenants, particularly those entered into after the effective date of the bill's adoption into law — including barring some altogether.

Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation Provisions in the American Rescue Plan Act [Alert]

March 12, 2021

Robert Kaplan, Matt Clyde, and Lynn Brehm discuss the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and how it affects employee benefit plans and publicly traded companies’ tax deductions for executive compensation.

Marijuana Legalization Push May Impact PA Utilities’ Zero Tolerance Policies [Alert]

February 26, 2021

David P. Zambito and Vincent Candiello discuss how Pennsylvania’s regulated public utilities would be impacted by the legalization of marijuana and if they are not permitted to continue their zero-tolerance drug use policies for employees involved in the operation of critical infrastructure.

Progressive Paid Leave Policy Introduced in Philadelphia City Council [Alert]

February 17, 2021

Joseph Hill, Michael Henlon, and Brianna Westbrooks discuss legislation introduced in Philadelphia City Council that would significantly expand required paid sick leave for individuals at companies with more than 50 employees.

What You Need To Know About OSHA’S Updated COVID-19 Guidance

February 02, 2021

John Ho discusses OSHA's revised COVID-19 guidance for employers following an executive order issued by President Biden

Employer Guide to COVID-19 Vaccination

January 20, 2021

David Barron, John Carrigan, Jr., Arielle Eisenberg, Aaron Holt, and Nandini Sane designed a guide on how employers can handle the COVID-19 vaccination for their employees.

Illinois Restrictive Covenants Face A Sea Change If Bill Passes

January 19, 2021

Christopher Hennessy and Jeremy Glenn contributed an article to Law360 discussing how on January 8th, a bill was introduced in the Illinois Legislature that, if made into law, would rewrite significant aspects of the law of restrictive covenants entered into after the effective date of its adoption into law, including barring some altogether.

Watershed Fifth Circuit Opinion Raises Bar for FLSA Collective Actions [Alert]

January 19, 2021

Adam C. Gutmann and David L. Barron discuss the landmark ruling in Swales v. KLLM Transport Servs., LLC, wherein the court did away with the two-step Lusardi framework that most FLSA collective actions have followed for the last 33 years.

Antitrust Enforcers Lodge First Criminal Indictment for Violation of No-Poach Agreement [Alert]

January 13, 2021

Stephen Miller and Casey James discuss the DOJ's indictment charging Surgical Care Affiliates LLC of colluding with two companies not to solicit each other’s senior-level employees.

Obama 2.0: What Employers Can Expect From Biden On Labor [Law360]

January 05, 2021

Daniel Johns wrote an article about what the upcoming Biden administration will look like on labor issues.

City of Pittsburgh Enacts Ordinance Mandating Paid Time Off Related to COVID-19 [Alert]

December 17, 2020

Peter Ennis discusses the ordinance signed by Mayor Bill Peduto covering employers with 50 or more employees and requiring them to provide paid time off for employees working in the city who miss work due to reasons related to COVID-19.

Getting Your Workforce Vaccinated Without Getting Sued [Law360]

December 14, 2020

John Carrigan, Jr. wrote an article about the COVID-19 vaccine and employers looking to a vaccine as a way to keep their workforce and customers safe may face an uphill battle.

Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court Denies Medical Marijuana Accommodation for Nursing Student

December 03, 2020

Ben Shechtman discusses the first-of-its-kind decision by the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court that the MMA did not require a nursing school to accommodate a student’s use of medical marijuana under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act.

States of Flux — What Employers Need to Know About Election 2020 and New State Laws [Alert]

November 23, 2020

David Barron, Joseph Quinn, Jake Rubinstein, Di Addy Tang, Peter Ennis, Adam Gutmann, and Anne discuss various state laws that may impact employers.

Exec Employment Considerations Under A Biden White House [Law360]

October 30, 2020

Jeff Pasek, Diane Thompson, Anne Green, and Michael Corgan wrote an article about what a Joe Biden administration would look like for companies.

Employer Obligations Relating to Employee Voting [Alert]

October 20, 2020

Peter Ennis and Brett Greving breakdown, by state, what employees are entitled to when it comes to their right to vote.

Employers Must Beware The Coming Union Organizing Storm [Law 360]

October 07, 2020

Daniel Johns wrote an article discussing the risk of union organizing that employers may face at the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rebuttable Presumption for COVID-19 Illnesses to Impact Employers Through 2022 [Alert]

September 23, 2020

Elena Hillman and Austin Dieter discuss SB 1159, signed into law by Governor Newsom, expanding access to workers’ compensation and making it easier for first responders, health care workers, and other workers who test positive for COVID-19 due to an outbreak.

California Codifies New COVID-19 Notice Requirements and Expands Cal OSHA Authority [Alert]

September 23, 2020

Elena Hillam and Austin Dieter discuss AB 685, signed by Governor Newsom, implementing new reporting and notice requirements and granting Cal OSHA additional powers following employee exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace.

Philadelphia Mandates Two Weeks of Paid Sick Leave for Workers Impacted by COVID-19 [Alert]

September 17, 2020

George Voegele discusses the city of Philadlelphia's new ordinance that makes two weeks of paid sick leave available to thousands of Philadelphia workers impacted by COVID-19.

Good-Faith Defense Affirmed as to Claims Against Unions Representing Pennsylvania Public Employees [Alert]

September 15, 2020

Michael Hanlon and Benjamin L. Shechtman discuss the Third Circuit's consolidated opinions in Diamond et al. v. PSEA et al. and Wenzig et al. v. SEIU Local 668 et al.

California’s Large Employers to Provide COVID-19 Paid Sick Leave Following Newsom’s Signature [Alert]

September 15, 2020

Bethany Vasquez, Elena Hillman, and Austin Dieter discuss Assembly Bill 1867, requiring large employers to provide COVID-19 related supplemental paid sick leave to their California employees.

Changes to USCIS Fee Schedule and Forms [Alert]

September 08, 2020

On August 3, 2020, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a Final Rule that alters the USCIS filing Fee Schedule. On average, the filing fees were increased overall by approximately 20 percent.

Eleventh Circuit Sides With Employer in Title VII Opposition Clause Case [Daily Business Review]

August 21, 2020

Arielle Eisenberg wrote an article about the Title VII of the Civil Rights Act that protects an employee's conduct of complaining about Title VII violations.

Employer Back to School Guide

August 06, 2020

David Barron, David Hackett, Nandini Sane, and Bethany Vasquez designed an FAQ to address concerns that employers have regarding COVID-19 and the Fall semester.

New York Federal Judge Strikes Down Portions of Dept. of Labor’s Emergency Paid Leave Rules [Alert]

August 05, 2020

David Barron discusses the Southern District of New York's decision on August 3, 2020, finding that four portions of the DOL's final rule exceeded the DOL’s authority and should be set aside as invalid.

Eleventh Circuit Explains How Protected Activity Loses Its Protected Status in Gogel v. Kia Motors [Alert]

August 04, 2020

Arielle Eisenberg discussed the Eleventh Circuit's decision in Gogel v. Kia Motors.

Courts Give “Thumbs Down” to Pennsylvania Employees Terminated For Social Media Posts [PHRA]

July 30, 2020

Alan Pittler wrote an article about three separate lawsuits brought by Pennsylvania employees who were terminated for social media posts.

Employers Must Vigilantly Evaluate WARN Obligations As Pandemic Continues [Alert]

July 28, 2020

Dave Hackett and Anna Wermuth discuss what employers must do to ensure they are complying with all applicable laws.

COVID-19 FAQs For California Employers

July 01, 2020

Michele Ballard Miller, Walter Stella, Elena Hillman, and Austin Dieter designed an FAQ that California Employers have regarding COVID-19.

Job descriptions can be an employer’s best document [South Florida Business & Wealth]

June 28, 2020

Susan Eisenberg and Jennifer Taylor Williams wrote an article discussing how a job description can affect litigation.

In Landmark Decision, U.S. Supreme Court Expands LGBTQ Protections in Employment [Alert]

June 17, 2020

Arielle Eisenberg discusses the U.S. Supreme Court's historic decision holding that LGBTQ individuals are protected from discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

NLRB Severely Limits Jurisdiction Over Religious Schools [Alert]

June 16, 2020

Mike Hanlon, Steve Millman, and Austin Dieter discuss the NLRB's decision in Bethany College.

New York Return-To-Work Safety Plan Checklist

June 10, 2020

Michael Schmidt addressed best practices for New York employers to return to work from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Adapting To Worker-Friendly City Laws Prompted By Virus [Law360]

June 01, 2020

Jeremy Glenn and Julie Trester wrote an article discussing how the COVID-19 pandemic could impact employee rights.

Work After COVID-19: What Is the New Normal For Leave, Accommodation Requests? [Law.com]

May 27, 2020

Susan Eisenberg and Jennifer Taylor Williams wrote an article discussing how the EEOC intends that ADA accommodation requests will be alive and well post-coronavirus and employers will be required to engaged in the interactive process with each individual.

OSHA Does an Abrupt Turn In Issuing New Guidance on Recording COVID-19 [Alert]

May 21, 2020

Austin Dieter and John Ho discuss OSHA's most recent guidance on when employers need to record COVID-19 illnesses.

Chicago City Counsel Delays Private Right of Action in Fair Workweek Ordinance [Alert]

May 21, 2020

Jeremy Glenn, Julie Trester, and James Mackey discuss the Chicago City Council has adopted an amendment to the Fair Workweek Ordinance delaying the ability of employees to file lawsuits in court until January, 1, 2021. However, the action does not delay enforcement of the ordinance starting July 1.

Pennsylvania Department of Health Issues Revised Employer COVID-19 FAQs [Alert]

May 06, 2020

Bryant Andrews and Bethany Salvatore discuss the Pennsylvania Department of Health's guidance for the businesses permitted to maintain in-person operations.

EEOC Issues Guidelines on COVID-19 Testing of Employees [Alert]

April 29, 2020

Benjamin L. Shechtman discusses the EEOC's recent guidance allowing ADA-covered employers to administer a COVID-19 test to an employee prior to permitting the employee to enter the workplace, without running afoul of EEO laws.

Philadelphia Moves Forward with Fair Workweek Law Despite COVID-19 Pandemic [Alert]

April 28, 2020

Steve Millman and Michael Hanlon discuss Philadelphia's new Fair Workweek law and what employers need to know as they begin restarting operations following COVID-19 shutdowns.

Potential Pitfalls of Temperature Screenings [Alert]

April 24, 2020

Di Addy Tang, Elena Hillman, and Austin Dieter discuss what employers need to consider before implementing temperature screenings of employees.

Return to Work Post-Coronavirus Checklist

April 24, 2020

Cozen O'Connor Labor and Employment attorneys addressed how employers should plan returning to work post-coronavirus.

Pennsylvania Requires New Employer Safety Measures to Combat COVID-19 [Alert]

April 17, 2020

Alan Pittler discusses Pennsylvania's new employer safety measures and what that could mean for non-essential businesses when they are ready to open up.

Telework May Bring Reimbursement Claims For Ill. Employers

April 10, 2020

Christopher Hennessy and Jeremy Glenn published an article to Law360 discussing teleworking and what this might mean for Illinois businesses in terms of expense reimbursement.

Dealing with Employee Protests and Strikes due to COVID-19 Concerns [Alert]

April 09, 2020

Adam Gutmann discusses what employers should do when employees strike, participate in sickouts, or request PPE or to work from home due to concerns surrounding COVID-19.

Duty to Report Employees Who Test Positive for COVID-19

April 08, 2020

John Ho and Peter Ennis describe whether employers should report, under federal or state law, an employee who has tested positive.

NLRB Issues New Election Rule [Alert]

April 06, 2020

Shaina Hicks and Mike Hanlon detail three changes the NLRB made to the representation case procedures.

New York State grants COVID-19 Immunity to Health Care Industry

April 06, 2020

David Loh and John Ho discuss New York's new state budget and the Emergency or Disaster Treatment Protection Act, which protects health care professionals from liability that may result from the treatment of individuals with COVID-19.

The CARES Act Provides New Distribution and Loan Options for Individual Account Retirement Plans [Alert]

April 03, 2020

Matthew Clyde explains how the CARES Act may impact individual retirement accounts.

IRS Provides New Guidance Regarding Tax Credits under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act

April 02, 2020

Nandini Sane and Tina Syring summarize employers' obligations and benefits under the FFCRA.

Employer Checklist for Responding to a Positive COVID-19 Test [Alert]

April 01, 2020

Michael Hanlon and Anna Will Kentz detail how employers should handle an employee who tests positive for COVID-19 or whom demonstrates symptoms of the virus.

Pandemic-Related Funding Options For Ill. Businesses

March 30, 2020

Christopher Hennessy and Jeremy Glenn published an article to Law360 discussing the different programs the state of Illinois has announced to help businesses navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic.

MINNESOTA Response to COVID-19 [Alert]

March 30, 2020

Tina Syring discusses Minnesota's stay-at-home order and its impact on employers.

Summary and Analysis of Key Provisions of the CARES Act

March 28, 2020

Members of Cozen O'Connor's Coronavirus Task Force provide analysis of the CARES Act and how it will impact small businesses, distressed industries, employers and employees, taxes, and the health care, real estates, and energy industries.

Labor and Employment Attorneys Answer Three COVID-19 Questions [Lodging Magazine]

March 23, 2020

Susan Eisenberg and Jennifer Williams wrote about the challenges that the hospitality and lodging industry are facing with COVID-19.

Layoffs, Furloughs, and the Impact of WARN Acts on Reorganizations [Alert]

March 20, 2020

Jen Williams, Peter Ennis, Arielle Eisenberg, and Nandini Sane discuss what employers must consider under state and federal WARN Acts before laying off or furloughing employees during the COVID-19 pandemic.

California Governor Orders All Residents to Stay at Home [Alert]

March 20, 2020

Austin Dieter, David Hatch, and Brett Greving discuss Governor Newsome's order, who is exempt, and what services will remain available to Californians.

FAQ: Families First Coronavirus Response Act [Alert]

March 19, 2020

Aaron Holt answers employers' questions regarding the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

Working from Home in the Age of COVID-19 — Answers to 10 Questions Employers Should Be Asking [Alert]

March 17, 2020

Peter Ennis and Michael Hanlon answer the questions employers should be asking as the workforce moves to telecommute.

Model Coronavirus Response Plan

March 16, 2020

David Barron and John Ho designed a response plan for employers facing coronavirus, along with questions for employees.

Medical Inquiries and Examinations Related to Coronavirus [Alert]

March 13, 2020

David Barron and Debra Friedman answer employers' frequently asked questions when it comes to the coronavirus.

Employers Should Make Coronavirus Preparations Now [Bar Business Magazine]

March 13, 2020

Aaron Holt wrote an article discussing the action that employers should take with coronavirus within the workplace.

Pittsburgh Paid Sick Days Act Going Into Effect Amidst Uncertainty [Alert]

March 04, 2020

Joseph Quinn details what employers need to know about Pittsburgh new Act, including who is impacted and what they need to do now.

IRS Asserts No Statute of Limitations for ACA Violations; May Require New Record Retention Policies [Alert]

March 02, 2020

Jay Dorsch and Rob Kaplan discuss the IRS's position that there is no statute of limitations for penalties associated with the Affordable Care Act.

Third Circuit Upholds Philadelphia Wage History Ordinance [Alert]

February 20, 2020

Mariah L. Passarelli discusses the Third Circuit's decision and what employers need to do next.

NYC Council Considers Legislation to End At-Will Employment in the Fast Food Industry [Alert]

February 11, 2020

Katie Schwab discusses two new bills in New York City impacting fast food employers and employees. A hearing on the bills is scheduled for February 13.

Circuit Court Once Again Reins in NLRB Over Jurisdiction [Alert]

February 03, 2020

Joe Quinn discusses the court's decision in Duquesne University v. NLRB and its impact on future attempts at organizing by faculty and non-faculty employees at religious schools.

A Labor Attorney Explains the Work Rules Around Getting Sick in the Office, Whether You're Facing a Small Cold or the Coronavirus [Business Insider]

January 31, 2020

David Barron wrote about company policies involving illness in the workplace and five important questions that both employees and employers should be asking.

Court Finds Implied Wrongful Discharge Cause of Action Under PA Medical Marijuana Act [Alert]

January 30, 2020

George Voegele and Adam Gutmann discuss the Palmiter v. Commonwealth Health Systems, et al., case and what employers in Pennsylvania need to know.

Year-End Spending Bill Includes Significant Employee Benefit Plan Changes

December 30, 2019

Robert Kaplan and Jay Dorsch discuss why employers need to begin evaluating the effects of the SECURE Act on their retirement plans as soon as possible.

It’s Holiday Time—Can the Holiday Party Mean Exposure? [Law.com]

December 16, 2019

Susan Eisenberg wrote about the dos and don'ts for employers to keep employees safe during holiday parties.

Harrisburg May Be on Cusp of Grand Compromise Regarding Employee Pay

December 03, 2019

Joe Quinn discusses the fate of the increase to the salary test for EAP exemptions and the minimum wage in Pennsylvania.

Court Says Disability-Based Harassment Is Unlawful Under ADA But Finds Plaintiff’s Evidence Lacking

November 25, 2019

Jake Rubinstein discusses workplace harassment under the ADA and what lessons employers should take from Ford v. Marion County Sheriff's Office.

‘OK, Boomer’ Is Not OK in the Workplace [Law.com]

November 22, 2019

Joseph Sirbak wrote an article about the phrase "OK, boomer" and the legal consequences behind saying it.

Events & Seminars

Upcoming Events

Developments in White-Collar Exemption Law

February 20, 2025 - Cancún, Mexico

John Ho will present “Developments in White-Collar Exemption Law” at the ABA Section of Labor and Employment Law Wage and Hour Committee Midwinter Meeting.

What’s on the Horizon in 2025 for California Workplaces

December 06, 2024 - Santa Monica, CA

Michele Ballard Miller and Nicole Herter Perkin will present “What’s on the Horizon in 2025 for California Workplaces” for the Southern California Chapter of the Association of Corporate Counsel.

Health Care & Life Sciences 2025

December 05, 2024 - Philadelphia, PA

Cozen O'Connor will host Health Care & Life Sciences 2025, our annual in-person seminar exploring critical issues impacting health care and life sciences businesses.

A Quarter for Your Thoughts: New York Employment Law Q4 2024 Developments and Trends

December 03, 2024 - Webinar

Join Michael Schmidt, Janice Sued Agresti, and Jamie Ansorge as they host the latest installment in this quarterly webinar series.

Past Events

FLSA by the Numbers

November 15, 2024 - New York, NY

Making AI Work at Work

November 14, 2024 - Pittsburgh, PA

Negotiating Better Settlements

November 06, 2024 - Pittsburgh, PA

The Future of Restrictive Covenants

October 09, 2024 - Philadelphia, PA

Disrupt HR

October 01, 2024 - Minneapolis, MN

Women, Influence & Power in Law 2024

September 23, 2024 - Chicago, IL

Cannabis Real Estate Summit MN

September 06, 2024 - Golden Valley, MN

Generative AI Best Practices for Law Firms

September 05, 2024 - Chicago, IL

Labor and Workplace Issues

July 27, 2024 - Round Rock, TX

Navigating the New FTC Rule on Noncompetes

July 23, 2024 - Golden Valley, MN

Virtual Legal Audit for Nonprofits 2024

June 07, 2024 - Webinar

Arbitration Panel

May 02, 2024 - Chicago, IL

The Only Constant is Change

April 18, 2024 - Denver, CO

Navigating the Paid Family and Medical Leave Law

April 18, 2024 - Brooklyn Center, MN

The Workplace as a Battlefield in a Cultural War

April 16, 2024 - Philadelphia, PA

How to Manage Your Immigration Program

April 03, 2024 - Webinar

Union Organizing 101

March 21, 2024 - Webinar

NLRB Update

March 12, 2024 - Webinar

Labor Issues in Railroad Mergers

March 08, 2024 - Phoenix, AZ

Updates to Labor & Employment Laws

February 22, 2024 - Minneapolis, MN

Managing the Workplace in an Election Year

January 25, 2024 - Webinar

2024 AGC Construction Safety & Health Conference

January 10, 2024 - Newport Beach, CA

Health Law 2024

December 05, 2023 - Philadelphia, PA

Are You My Employee?

November 14, 2023 - Mars, Pennsylvania

Testing Certification through Litigation

November 11, 2023 - Seattle, WA

Problematic Provisions in Employee Agreements

November 02, 2023 - Redwood City, CA

Settling OSHA Citations: It's Not Just About OSHA

September 19, 2023 - Orlando, FL

FMLA and ADA Compliance Deep Dive

August 29, 2023 - Pittsburgh, PA

State of Play: Federal OSHA Update

July 25, 2023 - Nashville, TN

Show Up and Step Up

July 21, 2023 - Houston, TX

What Keeps Nonprofit Lawyers Up At Night?

June 22, 2023 - Philadelphia, PA

Data Privacy in the Employment Context

June 21, 2023 - Webinar

Pay Equity: 2023 Update and Trends

May 25, 2023 - Webinar

CEO Succession & Transition

May 24, 2023 - Webinar

Pay Equity: 2023 Update

April 20, 2023 - Webinar

NY Law Update

April 18, 2023 - Philadelphia, PA

Where is the NLRB Now?

April 18, 2023 - Philadelphia, PA

Can We Agree to…..Agree?

April 13, 2023 - Sacramento, CA

Alternatives to the H-1B

March 09, 2023 - Webinar

How the Next Two Years Will Impact Employers

February 16, 2023 - Webinar

SECURE 2.0 Act: What Employers Need to Know

February 15, 2023 - Webinar

Strategies for Arbitrating FLSA Claims

February 15, 2023 - Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Who Cares About Handbooks Anyway

February 09, 2023 - Sunrise, FL

ESG in the Workplace

February 01, 2023 - Webinar

The Ins & Outs of the H-1B

January 26, 2023 - Webinar

The Ethics of Social Media

January 25, 2023 - Pittsburgh, PA

Arbitration: The Not So New Frontier

January 24, 2023 - New York, NY

Path to Permanent Residency: PERM

December 07, 2022 - Webinar

Responding to Governmental Agencies

November 09, 2022 - Webinar

Employee Handbooks 2022

July 28, 2022 - Webinar

ACC - Best Practices for Remote Work Policies

July 21, 2022 - The Woodlands, TX

Best Practices for Remote Work Policies

July 12, 2022 - Houston, TX

Illinois Employment Law Update

May 12, 2022 - Webinar

Pay Equity: Legislation and Litigation

April 07, 2022 - Webinar

Medical Marijuana: A Follow-Up

April 05, 2022 - Zoom

Employment Law Basics for Small Business

March 09, 2022 - Webinar

Returning to the New Normal

March 03, 2022 - Glen Mills, PA

California Employment Law Update

February 23, 2022 - Webinar

COVID-19 Update: What Will 2022 Bring?

February 03, 2022 - Webinar

Update on Vaccine Mandates

January 13, 2022 - Webinar

COVID-19 Protocols for California Employers

January 11, 2022 - Webinar

COVID-19 Update

January 10, 2022 - Webinar

The Year in Review for California Employers

December 15, 2021 - Webinar

COVID-19 Regulations for Small Businesses

December 15, 2021 - Webinar

Employment Litigation Year in Review

December 14, 2021 - Webinar

Medical Marijuana in Pennsylvania

December 13, 2021 - Webinar

Health Law 2022

December 08, 2021 - Webinar

OSHA’s Emergency Temporary Standard

December 07, 2021 - Webinar

Managing the Post-Pandemic Workplace

November 30, 2021 - Webinar

Latest Update on OSHA Vaccination Mandate

November 18, 2021 - Webinar

OSHA ETS Vaccine Mandate

November 04, 2021 - Webinar

Back to Work COVID-19 Recovery & Resilience

October 21, 2021 - Pittsburgh, PA

Wishing the Legal Industry Well

October 12, 2021 - Webinar

The Latest Developments on Vaccine Mandates

September 28, 2021 - Webinar

The Impact of the Pandemic on Woman in Law

September 28, 2021 - Webinar

New Vaccine Mandates from Biden Administration

September 23, 2021 - Webinar

Re-Open & Refresh

June 11, 2021 - Webinar

COVID-19 Update: Getting Back to Work

June 03, 2021 - Webinar

Changes in Pre-employment Practices

May 20, 2021 - Webinar

Small Business COVID-19 Rules

March 25, 2021 - Webinar

Startup Essentials Program

March 05, 2021 - Webinar

Back to the Office

January 28, 2021 - Webinar

COVID-19 Panel Discussion

December 18, 2020 - Webinar

Health Law 2021

December 07, 2020 - Webinar

Addressing Bias In The Virtual Workplace

October 28, 2020 - Webinar

2020 PHRA Annual Conference

October 27, 2020 - Webinar

Hourly, Minimum, & Overtime Wage Rates

October 20, 2020 - Webinar

The Impact of COVID 19 on the Workplace

October 16, 2020 - Webinar

ACC 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting

October 15, 2020 - Webinar

Lawyers Behaving Badly

May 06, 2020 - Webinar

What the Stimulus Means for Your Company

March 31, 2020 - Webinar

National Small Business Town Hall

March 27, 2020 - Teleconference

5th Annual PHRA Academy

March 20, 2020 - Pittsburgh, PA

2020 Legal Update, What's New in IL Employment Law?

February 06, 2020 - Lake Forest, IL

The Year in Review and Looking Ahead to 2020

December 12, 2019 - Webinar

Best Practices for Drug and Alcohol Testing

December 12, 2019 - Mars, PA

Health Law 2020

December 04, 2019 - Philadelphia, PA

AB5: Is the Gig Up for California Employers?

December 04, 2019 - Webinar

In The News

Punching In: Employers Brace for Trump Immigration Raids, Audits

November 18, 2024

Scott Bettridge was quoted in a Bloomberg Law article discussing how employers should brace for tougher immigration audits under the incoming administration, which is expected to increase enforcement, including surprise raids and heightened I-9 scrutiny.

Calculating Wages Owed Is Tricky Endeavor, Experts Say

November 15, 2024

Arielle Eisenberg was quoted in a Law360 article recapping key principles guiding wage and hour best practices discussed at the American Bar Association's annual Labor and Employment Law Conference.

More Questions Than Answers for OSHA with Second Trump Term

November 13, 2024

John Ho was quoted in a Business Insurance article discussing the anticipated changes to OSHA enforcement and regulations under the incoming Trump administration, including shifts in safety standards, enforcement practices, and agency leadership.

State Governments May Increase Focus on Workplace Regulation During Second Trump Administration

November 13, 2024

Michele Ballard Miller and Michael Schmidt were quoted in an HR Brew article discussing how President-elect Donald Trump’s administration may shape the workplace landscape.

How HR Can Help Employees Navigate Political Conversations at Work

November 08, 2024

David Barron was quoted in an HR Brew article on managing employee conflicts amid political tensions following the 2024 U.S. election.

Cozen O’Connor Recognized as a “Best Law Firm” in 31 Practice Areas Nationwide, 54 Practice Areas Regionally

November 07, 2024

In 2024, Best Lawyers received more than 100,000 client references and observed a 65% increase in client participation in their survey.

Which Rule is ‘Dead’ and Which Will Go into Effect Under Trump? Attorneys Weigh In

November 06, 2024

David Barron, Michele Ballard Miller, and Michael Schmidt were quoted in an HR Dive article discussing the impact of the upcoming Trump administration on key labor regulations.

Aaron Holt Appointed Co-Chair of the ABA’s Leadership Development Program Committee

November 06, 2024

Aaron Holt, a member of Cozen O’Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, has been appointed to be the Employer Co-Chair for the American Bar Association’s (ABA) Leadership Development Program Committee.

Navigating DEI and Employment Law: What Every Employer Needs to Know

October 23, 2024

Aaron Holt was a guest on the National Association of Residential Property Managers podcast titled “Navigating DEI and Employment Law: What Every Employer Needs to Know.”

Lawdragon Names Six Cozen O’Connor Attorneys to Its Annual List of Leading Corporate Employment Lawyers

October 01, 2024

Lawdragon has named six members of Cozen O’Connor’s Labor & Employment Department to its annual list of Leading U.S. Corporate Employment Lawyers. Among the honorees are Joseph Tilson, A. Martin Wickliff, Jr., Anna Wermuth, Jeremy Glenn, Susan Eisenberg, and Michael Schmidt.

Two Texas Attorneys Named 2024 Super Lawyers

September 17, 2024

Stephen P. Pate and A. Martin Wickliff, Jr. were recognized as 2024 Texas Super Lawyers.

FTC Fails 1st Test Of Rulemaking Push In Noncompetes Loss

August 21, 2024

Michael Schmidt was quoted in a Law360 article discussing U.S. District Judge Ada E. Brown’s ruling against the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) ban on employment noncompete agreements.

Best Lawyers Honors More Than 200 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys in its Best Lawyers in America 2025 Edition

August 15, 2024

Best Lawyers selected 242 Cozen O’Connor lawyers from 24 of the firm’s U.S. offices for inclusion in the 2025 edition of The Best Lawyers in America and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America.

Can, or Should, Employers Prohibit Employees from Wearing Political Gear in the Office?

August 08, 2024

Jeremy Glenn was quoted in a SHRM article discussing how employers are reconsidering policies amidst the upcoming presidential election.

Cassandra Jacobsen Named “Up & Coming” Attorney by Minnesota Lawyer Magazine

August 07, 2024

Cassandra Jacobsen, an associate in Cozen O’Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, has been named a 2024 “Up & Coming” attorney.

Cassandra Jacobsen Selected to Participate in Minnesota Chamber of Commerce’s 2024-2025 Leadership Minnesota Program

August 05, 2024

Cassandra Jacobsen, an associate in Cozen O’Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, has been selected by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce to be a member of its 2024-2025 Leadership Minnesota program.

Fourteen Cozen O’Connor Lawyers Named to Minnesota Monthly “Top Lawyers” list

July 09, 2024

The list will appear in the July/August 2024 issue of Minnesota Monthly

Cozen O’Connor Adds Renowned Labor and Employment Litigator David J. Garraux to its Pittsburgh Office

July 08, 2024

Garraux, who joins as a shareholder and will work out of the firm’s Pittsburgh office, is the third litigator to join the Labor & Employment group in the past six weeks alone.

Super Lawyers Names 15 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys to its 2024 Florida List

July 03, 2024

Eight Cozen O’Connor attorneys have been recognized as Super Lawyers, including Susan N. Eisenberg, James A. Gale, Howard S. Krooks, Samuel A. Lewis, Ellen S. Morris, Stuart R. Morris, Ralf R. Rodriguez, and Martin T. Schrier. The seven Cozen O’Connor attorneys recognized as Rising Stars are Heather Beale, Tiffany Bustamante, J. Kent Crocker, Arielle Eisenberg, Alexandra J. Schultz, Natasha Shaikh, and Paul Souferis.

Proposed OSHA Rule Focuses on Heat Triggers, Acclimatization Protocols

July 03, 2024

John Ho was quoted in a SHRM article discussing the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) proposed rule addressing heat-related illnesses.

Super Lawyers Names Three Cozen O’Connor Attorneys to 2024 Northern California List

July 02, 2024

Walter M. Stella was recognized as a Super Lawyer, and Solomon Pantuch and Di Addy Tang were named Rising Stars.

Walter Stella and Di Addy Tang Honored by the Justice & Diversity Center of the Bar Association of San Francisco with Outstanding Volunteers Crystal Award

June 12, 2024

Walter Stella and Di Addy Tang were honored by the Justice & Diversity Center (JDC) of the Bar Association of San Francisco with the Outstanding Volunteers Crystal Award.

31 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys Named Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

June 11, 2024

Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only 5 percent of attorneys are named Super Lawyers; only 2.5 percent of attorneys are listed as Rising Stars.

Nearly 100 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 27 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2024 Guide

June 10, 2024

Chambers USA rankings are based on an “assessment of a firm’s work and opinions from external market sources, with an emphasis on client feedback.” In order to be ranked in the guide, lawyers and firms must demonstrate “sustained excellence.”

Cozen O’Connor Continues its New York City Expansion, Adding Veteran Labor and Employment Lawyer Sandi F. Dubin

June 10, 2024

Dubin, who comes to the firm from Ogletree Deakins, joins Cozen O’Connor as a member and will reside in its New York City office.

Two Cozen O’Connor Attorney’s Named 2024 Texas Rising Stars

June 06, 2024

Super Lawyers has named Nandini Sane, and Nicole Su to its 2024 list of Rising Stars in Texas.

Sidnee McDonald Elected to Allegheny County Bar Association’s Homer S. Brown Division’s Council

June 05, 2024

Sidnee McDonald, an associate in Cozen O’Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, has been elected to the Allegheny County Bar Association’s Homer S. Brown Division’s (ACBA HSBD) Council.

Cozen O’Connor Continues its Boston Expansion adding Veteran Labor and Employment Lawyer Walter M. Foster

May 29, 2024

Foster comes to the firm from Eckert Seamans and joins Cozen O’Connor’s national Labor & Employment Department as a shareholder.

OSHA’s Revised Hazard Communication Standard Tackles Unresolved Issues

May 28, 2024

John Ho was quoted in the Madras Tribune discussing the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) revised Hazard Communication Standard.

Plan What to Do When an OSHA Inspector Arrives

May 16, 2024

John Ho was quoted in a SHRM article discussing the new OSHA "walkaround rule” that will be enforced starting on May 31.

Elizabeth Olivera Honored by the National Immigrant Justice Center with Rising Stars Award

May 13, 2024

Elizabeth Olivera, an associate in Cozen O’Connor’s Immigration Practice, will be honored with the Rising Stars Award at the National Immigrant Justice Center’s (NIJC) 25th Annual Human Rights Awards on June 4.

Overtime Rule: Raise Salaries or Reclassify Employees?

May 08, 2024

David Barron was quoted in a SHRM article discussing the impact of a new rule, which will raise the salary threshold for overtime compensation.

Safety Inspection Rule Change Raises Concerns

May 01, 2024

John Ho was quoted in a Business Insurance article discussing the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's recently finalized walkaround rule, allowing workers to designate non-employee representatives during safety inspections.

Silvia Chicas and Sidnee McDonald Selected as Class of 2024 NELC Academy Fellows

April 30, 2024

Silvia Chicas and Sidnee McDonald have been selected by the National Employment Law Council (NELC) as Class of 2024 NELC Academy fellows.

TikTok Layoff Videos Pose Quandary for Bosses on How to Respond

April 26, 2024

Aaron Holt was quoted in a Bloomberg Law article discussing the legal implications of the growing TikTok trend, in which employees record and post videos of their interactions with employers, most notably when being laid off.

Tweak To Colo. Sick Leave Rule Helps Ease Compliance

April 05, 2024

Jake Rubinstein was quoted in a Law360 article discussing the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment’s (CDLE) recent change to its paid sick leave rule, allowing employers to calculate a worker's hourly rate for paid sick time by averaging their hourly earnings over the previous 28 to 31 days, amending the formerly used 30-day lookback period.

What Employers Need to Know about Union Organizing in 2024

March 28, 2024

David Barron, Kelly Kindig, and Steven Millman were quoted in an Automotive Dive, HR Dive, Manufacturing Dive article discussing the labor landscape transformation in the past year, with increased worker enthusiasm and a landmark decision from the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) reshaping the dynamics of union organizing.

ETIAS Delayed to 2025

March 18, 2024

David Adams and Scott Bettridge were quoted in a SHRM article discussing the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), set to launch in 2025, and what employers and travelers should know about this pre-travel clearance system.

Cozen O’Connor Promotes 23 Attorneys to Member

March 15, 2024

“This is a group of terrific lawyers across many offices and practices areas and we look forward to following their achievements,” said Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael J. Heller.

Jeffrey Pasek Appointed An AVMA Council of Education Site Visitor

March 11, 2024

Jeffrey Pasek, a member of the firm’s Labor & Employment Department, has been appointed as an American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education (AVMA COE) site visitor.

Four Cozen O’Connor Attorneys, Practice Area Recognized in 2024 Chambers Global Rankings

March 05, 2024

Geoffrey Ferrer, Shane Hardy, Michael Osborne, and Steven Weisz were recognized in their practice areas based on their legal knowledge and experience, ability, effectiveness, and client service.

7 Tips for California Employers’ Violence Prevention Plans

March 04, 2024

John Carrigan, Jr., Elena Hillman, and Daniel Pascale were quoted in an HR Dive article discussing tips on how California employers can implement workplace violence prevention plans by July 1.

GCs Urged to Act Before Employees Become Whistleblowers

February 23, 2024

Joseph Sirbak was quoted in a Legal Dive article discussing how the Supreme Court's ruling in Murray v. UBS has altered the landscape for whistleblower litigation, highlighting the importance of employer responsiveness to employee reports of misconduct.

OSHA Moves Closer to Letting Union Members Onsite During Inspections

February 14, 2024

John Ho was quoted in a SHRM article discussing OSHA’s proposed walkaround rule that allows union members on employer premises during an agency inspection

Employer Wariness of Gen Z May Spur Age Bias Claims

February 05, 2024

Debra Steiner Friedman was quoted in a Law360 article highlighting the increase in age-biased complaints from young workers, urging employers to avoid age discrimination.

Arielle Eisenberg Named “On the Rise” by Daily Business Review’s Florida Legal Awards

February 01, 2024

Cozen O'Connor is pleased to announce that Arielle Eisenberg, a member of the firm’s Labor & Employment Department, has been selected as an honoree for the Daily Business Review’s Florida Legal Awards in the On the Rise (Large Firm) category.

EHS On Tap E191: OSHA’s New Injury Reporting Rule

January 30, 2024

John Ho was a guest on the EHS On Tap podcast titled “EHS On Tap E191: OSHA’s New Injury Reporting Rule.”

Illinois Laid the Foundation for the Rest of My Life

January 30, 2024

Matthew DiCianni was interviewed by the University of Illinois College of Liberal Arts and Sciences for their LAS@Work profile, crediting the university for preparing him for a successful career at Cozen O’Connor.

Eleven Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named 2024 Illinois Super Lawyers

January 29, 2024

The Cozen O’Connor attorneys who have been recognized by their peers in Illinois as Super Lawyers are Jack Carriglio, Janet Davis, Jeremy Glenn, Allen Guon, Peter Roberts, Brian Shaw, Joe Tilson, and Anna Wermuth. Amy Doig, David Doyle, and Corey Hickman were named to this year’s Illinois Rising Stars list. This is Hickman’s first year on the Rising Stars list.

How I Made Office Managing Partner: Don't Sacrifice Professional Growth Opportunities for Billable Hours

January 24, 2024

Jeremy Glenn was interviewed by Law.com for their "How I Made It" column, reflecting on his career and sharing advice for aspiring partners.

California PAGA Cases Can’t Be Dismissed Due to Unmanageability

January 22, 2024

Brett C. Greving was quoted in a SHRM article discussing a new ruling that prevents trial courts in California from dismissing lawsuits brought under the state’s Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) due to perceived unmanageability.

California Legislation And Regulations To Watch In 2024

January 01, 2024

Walter Stella was quoted in a Law360 article discussing the groundbreaking legislation and regulations implemented in California regarding employers’ obligations to workers.

NLRB Establishes Faster Time Frame for Union Elections

December 14, 2023

Kelly Kindig was quoted in a SHRM article discussing how to navigate the National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) new rule requiring quicker union elections.

Punching In: AI, Overtime Update Top Employers’ Focus for 2024

December 11, 2023

Jeremy Glenn was quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing a possible overtime update as the US Department of Labor finalizes several regulations before a potential change in leadership.

Overdose Cure at Work May Bring Liability Risks

December 08, 2023

John Ho was quoted in a Business Insurance article discussing the risks and legal implications for employers to store and provide naloxone.

Law Firms Are Getting a Wake-up Call as Division Over Diversity Roils America’s Cultural Debate

December 08, 2023

Michael Schmidt was quoted in an American Bar Association Journal article discussing the U.S. Supreme Court’s rejection of affirmative action in college admissions in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, which is now being used to target law firms’ diversity initiatives.

Labor and Employment Law: The Private Attorney General Rule

December 05, 2023

Walter Stella was a guest on the KALW Your Legal Rights radio show discussing the employer side of the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA).

Reminder to HR: Holiday Parties Are Lawsuits Waiting to Happen

December 05, 2023

Michael Schmidt was quoted in an Employee Benefit News article discussing the increased risk of behaviors like harassment and discrimination as more companies plan on having in-person holiday parties.

Sidnee McDonald Named to the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity & Inclusion Coalition Young Professionals Advisory Board

December 01, 2023

Sidnee McDonald, an associate in the firm’s Labor & Employment Department, has been named to the Young Professionals Advisory Board of the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity & Inclusion Coalition (PLDIC) and will serve as the Penn State Law liaison.

Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Anna Wermuth and Jeremy Glenn Named to Crain’s 2023 Notable Leaders in Employment and Labor Law

December 01, 2023

Cozen O’Connor Labor & Employment lawyers Anna Wermuth and Jeremy Glenn have been named to the 2023 list of Notable Leaders in Employment and Labor Law by Crain’s Chicago Business magazine.

Elizabeth Olivera Elected Secretary of the National Filipino American Lawyers Association

November 21, 2023

Elizabeth Olivera, an associate in the firm’s Labor & Employment Department, has been elected secretary of the National Filipino American Lawyers Association (NFALA).

Jeffrey Pasek Reelected to Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry Board of Directors

November 21, 2023

Jeffrey Pasek, a member of the firm’s Labor & Employment Department, has been reelected to the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry board of directors.

State Ballot Measures May Impact the Workplace

November 13, 2023

Walter Stella was quoted in an SHRM article discussing two ballot measures in California that voters will decide in 2024 that could dramatically affect employers.

7 Things to Include in a Workplace Generative AI Policy

November 13, 2023

Janice Sued Agresti and Erin Bolan Hines were quoted in an HRDive article discussing items that human resource professionals should include in an employer’s generative AI policy.

Make a Plan ‘Right Now’ for $55K Overtime Rule, Attorney Says

November 13, 2023

Mariah Passarelli was quoted in an HRDive article discussing how employers can tackle the U.S. Department of Labor’s proposed change to increase the Fair Labor Standards Act’s overtime threshold drastically.

Winter’s Coming. Tell Us About Your Dream Vacation Getaway

November 07, 2023

Cassandra Jacobsen was featured in a Minnesota State Bar Association LexBlog discussing her dream vacation getaway.

The Fight Over Return-to-Office Is Turning Into a Disability Dispute

November 07, 2023

Michael Schmidt was quoted in a Wall Street Journal article discussing the increase of disability discrimination charges filed in federal and state agencies resulting from return to office mandates.

Case Headed to NLRB Might Prohibit Employers from Holding ‘Captive Audience’ Meetings

October 19, 2023

Daniel Johns was quoted in an SHRM article discussing a case pending before the National Labor Relations Board, which seeks to eliminate captive audience meetings and prevent employers from limiting email usage solely to business related matters.

Some Americans Are Secretly Working Multiple Remote Jobs. Bosses Shouldn’t Be Worried About It.

October 19, 2023

David Barron was quoted in a Business Insider article discussing the trend of remote workers taking on a second remote job.

Cozen O’Connor Member Arielle Eisenberg Named an “Up and Comer” by South Florida Business and Wealth Magazine

October 05, 2023

Arielle Eisenberg, a member of the firm’s Labor & Employment Department, has been named an “Up and Comer” by South Florida Business and Wealth magazine.

City & State Pennsylvania Names Debra Friedman and Thomas Giotto to Their 2023 Pennsylvania Labor Power 100 List

October 03, 2023

Debra Steiner Friedman and Thomas Giotto of Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department were named to the 2023 Pennsylvania Labor Power 100.

Lawdragon Names Six Cozen O’Connor Attorneys To Its Annual List Of Leading Corporate Employment Lawyers

September 27, 2023

Lawdragon has named six members of Cozen O’Connor’s Labor & Employment Department to its annual list of Leading U.S. Corporate Employment Lawyers.

High Court Religious Bias Decision Paves Way for EEOC Vax Suits

September 26, 2023

Aaron Holt was quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing the EEOC's first lawsuit filed against companies over failure to grant employee religious exemptions to COVID-19 vaccine policies and what it means moving forward.

Child Labor is a Growing Problem

September 23, 2023

John Ho spoke with SHRM about employers protecting younger workers and ways to help avoid legal issues when employing young people.

Super Lawyers Recognizes 27 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys in New York

September 22, 2023

Thirteen attorneys were recognized as Super Lawyers and 14 were named “Rising Stars.”

EEOC Partners with DOL on Legal Enforcement

September 22, 2023

Debra Steiner Friedman was quoted in SHRM discussing the impact of the U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission working more closely together to enforce workplace laws nationwide.

Do employers need to pay for worker commutes?

September 14, 2023

David Barron was quoted in HR Dive discussing how the Office of Personnel Management issued guidance regarding whether the Fair Labor Standards requires that federal workers be compensated for their commute to work.

AI Firms Among Job Vendors Bracing for California Bias Lawsuits

September 12, 2023

Walter Stella was quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing a recent ruling from the California Supreme Court that states that third-party service providers can be subject to lawsuits under the state's Fair Employment and Housing Act for actions performed on behalf of employers.

NLRB Broadens Scope of Protected Concerted Activity

September 08, 2023

Joseph Quinn spoke with SHRM about a new ruling from the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) that is intended to make it easier for workers to have legal protection for concerted activity in the workplace.

How Can Employers Deal with Threatening Customers?

September 05, 2023

David Barron was quoted in SHRM discussing how managers can help employees when dealing with an angry customer.

Commute Accommodations for Disabilities Spur Federal Court Rift

September 01, 2023

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing the recent decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit joining the Second and Third Circuits in holding that the Americans with Disabilities Act can require an employer to accommodate a disabled worker in getting to and from work.

Proposal Would Expand Authorized Participants in Worksite Inspections

August 29, 2023

James Sullivan was quoted in SHRM discussing a new proposed rule by the U.S. Department of Labor to broaden who can be authorized to accompany OSHA compliance officers during workplace inspections.

Law360 Names Cozen O’Connor a Pennsylvania Powerhouse

August 23, 2023

Cozen O’Connor was previously named a Pennsylvania Powerhouse in 2022, 2018, and 2014.

Take Care with Last Chance Agreements

August 23, 2023

Debra Steiner Friedman was quoted in SHRM discussing last chance agreements and why the wording is important.

New Ruling May Have 'Huge Impact' On Calif. Bias Litigation

August 22, 2023

Walter Stella was quoted in Law360 discussing a recent California Supreme Court decision in which third-party service providers hired by employers may be liable for discrimination law violations.

Legal Issues: Unions Continue Making Waves Across U.S.

August 22, 2023

Jake Rubinstein spoke with Law Week Colorado to discuss the latest trends involving unionized employees in Colorado.

Best Lawyers Honors More Than 200 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys to its Best Lawyers in America 2024 Edition

August 17, 2023

Best Lawyers selected 232 Cozen O’Connor lawyers from 24 of the firm’s U.S. offices for inclusion in the 2024 edition of The Best Lawyers in America.

SLC 2023 Preview: Don’t Just Settle for Easy

August 16, 2023

John Ho spoke with EHS Today about what businesses should consider when paying an OSHA citation compared to going through litigation.

Caregiver Protections Gain Steam As Moms' Pay Gap Persists

August 15, 2023

Debra Steiner Friedman was quoted in Law360 discussing caregiver discrimination pay between parents.

OSHA's Jurisdiction Over Transportation

August 15, 2023

John Ho spoke with EHS Today about OSHA's jurisdiction over transportation matters.

Reducing Employee Conflict

August 12, 2023

David Barron was quoted in SHRM discussing practical ways to handle employee conflict.

EEOC Deal In AI Suit May Be Tip Of Enforcement Iceberg

August 11, 2023

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Law360 discussing the EEOC's interest in artificial intelligence when used for hiring.

How HR can tailor workplace policies to address heat waves

August 08, 2023

John Ho spoke with HR Brew about how employers can handle working conditions during a heat wave.

Wildfire season has spread beyond California — how to keep employees safe

August 01, 2023

John Ho was quoted in Employee Benefits News discussing the action employers can take when their area is facing wildfires.

Feds publish new Form I-9

August 01, 2023

Scott Bettridge was quoted in HR Dive discussing employers using E-Verify for Form I-9.

Five Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named to 2023 Washington Super Lawyers List

July 31, 2023

The Seattle attorneys who have been recognized by their peers in include firm members Jodi McDougall, Terri Sutton, and William Walsh. Peter Berg and Sarah Pozzi were recognized as 2023 Washington Rising Stars.

Business Today Names 32 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys to Its Top 10 Lists

July 28, 2023

These lists recognize lawyers “mastering,” “leading,” “revolutionizing,” and “dominating” their fields in their respective states and nationwide.

USCIS announces new Form I-9, will allow permanent remote review for E-Verify users

July 24, 2023

Scott Bettridge spoke with HR Dive about the updated Form I-9 announced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Citizenship and Immigration Services, which will be available on August 1, 2023.

Facing the Heat: Wildfires Spark Urgent Air Quality Concerns for Employers and Risk Managers

July 24, 2023

John Ho was quoted in Risk & Insurance discussing the challenges the Canadian wildfires present to employers.

Hybrid Work Policies Reinforce 'Caste System' Among Lawyers and Staff

July 21, 2023

Vincent McGuinness and Michael Schmidt spoke with The American Lawyer about the challenges law firms face with hybrid work.

DoorDash Tests Gig-Economy Model With New Hourly Wage Option

July 18, 2023

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing how DoorDash now offers hourly pay for its drivers and what that means for worker classification.

Three Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named to 2023 Super Lawyers

July 17, 2023

Thomas G. Wallrich was recognized as a Super Lawyer, and Cassandra Jacobsen and Curt N. Trisko were named Rising Stars.

David Hackett Named Chair of the Riddle HealthCare Foundation

July 12, 2023

David Hackett, a member of Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, has been named the chair of the Riddle HealthCare Foundation.

Experts say employers lag in sexual harassment prevention training

July 12, 2023

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Business Insurance discussing employers needing to update their sexual harassment policy.

Legal 500 Recognizes Six Cozen O’Connor Practice Areas and 16 Attorneys in its 2023 Guide

July 10, 2023

Cozen O'Connor's Aviation (Litigation/Regulation), Construction, L&E, M&A (Midmarket), Shipping (Finance and Litigation/Regulation) practices were ranked by the Legal 500.

Super Lawyers Names 12 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys to its 2023 Florida List

June 30, 2023

Selection to Super Lawyers is based on peer nominations and evaluations, combined with independent research. Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only 5% of attorneys are named Super Lawyers; only 2.5% of attorneys are listed as Rising Stars.

Daniel Johns Elected Fellow of The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers

June 30, 2023

Daniel Johns, a member of Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, has been elected as a fellow of The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers.

Super Lawyers Names Two Cozen O’Connor Attorneys to 2023 Northern California List

June 30, 2023

Walter Stella (Employment & Labor) was recognized as a Super Lawyer, and Di Addy Tang (Employment & Labor) was named a Rising Star.

Using AI to recruit? You're legally responsible for the bot's bias, EEOC says

June 26, 2023

David Barron was quoted in Employee Benefit News discussing how the EEOC recently warned employers that using algorithmic decision-making tools for hiring strategies could potentially violate existing civil rights laws.

Jeffrey Pasek Elected Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Marc Sanders Foundation

June 20, 2023

Jeffrey Pasek, past chair of Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, has been elected as the chair of the board of trustees for the Marc Sanders Foundation.

California Pay-Disclosure Practices Draw Scrutiny from Regulators

June 19, 2023

Michele Ballard Miller was quoted in SHRM discussing the new pay transparency requirements in California.

Your Non-compete Might Be Illegal: NLRB Turns Up Heat for Rank-and-File Workers

June 16, 2023

Michael Schmidt was quoted in the New Jersey Law Journal discussing the National Labor Relations Board's memo warning that employment noncompete clauses for nonmanagerial employers are illegal.

Employers are more exposed to A.I.-related lawsuits in the workplace. Here’s how to protect your company

June 12, 2023

Michael Schmidt spoke with Fortune about a New York City law that will go into effect in July that is targeted to protect job candidates from potential biases in the recruiting process.

East Coast Workers Toiling in Smoke Have Few Legal Protections

June 08, 2023

John Ho spoke with Bloomberg Law about what the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration could do for outdoor workers on the east coast impacted by the wildfire smoke from Canada.

Aaron Holt to Serve as Co-Chair of ABA Employee Privacy Subcommittee

June 06, 2023

Aaron Holt, a member of Cozen O’Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, has been named the co-chair of the Employee Privacy Subcommittee of the America Bar Association’s Employment Rights & Responsibilities Committee.

Eighty-eight Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 23 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2023 Guide

June 05, 2023

Of the 88 lawyers ranked, 17 lawyers have been recognized nationally, and eighteen were recognized in Band 1. Eight of the firm's practice areas have been recognized nationally, and nine were ranked Band 1.

No-buy zone: Florida’s ban on some foreign buyers has industry scrambling for response

June 01, 2023

Scott Bettridge was quoted in The Real Deal discussing Florida Senate Bill 264.

How to Resolve Employee Conflicts

June 01, 2023

David Barron was quoted in SHRM addressing how to handle complaints in the workplace.

Here’s how Florida’s immigration law could lead to construction turmoil

May 30, 2023

Scott Bettridge was quoted in The Real Deal discussing Florida Senate Bill 1718.

Feds’ Push May Bring High Court Action on Title VII

May 26, 2023

Jason Cabrera spoke with Law360 to discuss the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission asking the Supreme Court to review two workplace bias cases that address what employment-related decisions can support a workplace bias allegation.

42 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys Named Pennsylvania Super Lawyers & Rising Stars

May 24, 2023

Super Lawyers has selected 42 Cozen O'Connor attorneys to the 2023 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists.

John Ho Named Avetta Fellow

May 19, 2023

John Ho, co-chair of Cozen O'Connor’s OSHA-Workplace Safety Practice, has been named an Avetta fellow.

Signs of migrant flight grow ahead of new Florida immigration law

May 19, 2023

Scott Bettridge was quoted in the South Florida Sun Sentinel discussing a new Florida state law designed to catch unauthorized immigrant workers.

Florida Immigration Bill Likely to Hurt Construction Labor Market

May 19, 2023

Scott Bettridge was quoted in the Commercial Observer discussing a Florida law signed recently that is designed to find unauthorized immigrant workers.

11th Circ. Order Could Chip Away At EEOC's Subpoena Power

May 15, 2023

Debra Friedman was quoted in Law360 discussing a recent decision by a three-judge panel in the Eleventh Circuit that has raised concerns about the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC) authority to conduct investigations.

Bobbi Britton Tucker Named Among Top 100 Black Lawyers in Pennsylvania by The National Black Lawyers

May 09, 2023

The National Black Lawyers has recognized Bobbi Britton Tucker as one of the top 100 Black lawyers in Pennsylvania.

Cozen O’Connor Attorney Matt DiCianni Honored with Rising Stars Award from The National Immigrant Justice Center

May 04, 2023

Matt DiCianni, a labor and employment associate at Cozen O’Connor, has been honored with a Rising Stars Award from the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC).

Automation curbs, changes safety risks

May 03, 2023

Aaron Holt was quoted in Business Insurance discussing the increasing use of automation in the workplace.

NLRB Offers Guide For Remedies Against Repeat Violators

April 28, 2023

Jeremy Glenn discussed with Law360 how the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) mapped out the types of remedies the agency might impose against repeat labor law violators.

How to Create the Best ChatGPT Policies

April 27, 2023

John Carrigan, Jr. and Janice Sued Agresti spoke with SHRM about the impact of ChatGPT in the workplace.

EHS On Tap E155: What You Need to Know About OSHA’s New Guidance on Penalties

April 25, 2023

John Ho joined the EHS On Tap Podcast to discuss OSHA's new guidance on penalties.

How to Handle Addiction in the Workplace

April 21, 2023

Debra Friedman was quoted in All Business discussing what employers should do when an employee shows signs of addiction.

To Mandate or to Suggest? Law Firms Weigh Hybrid Policy Approaches

April 20, 2023

Vincent McGuinness and Michael Schmidt spoke with The American Lawyer about the challenges of getting employees back in the office and the impact of remote work.

COVID Increased Disability, but It Also Showed How to Make Society More Accessible

April 06, 2023

Michele Ballard Miller was quoted in Speech Technology Magazine discussing how the COVID-19 pandemic has potentially caused a significant increase in the number of people with disabilities, including long COVID, which will have ramifications for society and businesses.

OSHA is increasing safety enforcement efforts in 2023

March 29, 2023

John Ho was quoted in Benefit News discussing how the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is ramping up its safety efforts in 2023.

Cozen O’Connor Taps Litigator Andrea Piercy to Lead its Canadian Employment Law Practice Expansion

March 27, 2023

As chair of the firm’s Canadian Employment Law Practice, Piercy will represent clients in employment law disputes, provide advice relating to employment agreements and terminations, and help clients develop and/or revise corporate-level employment policies and procedures.

Three Cozen O’Connor Attorney’s Named 2023 Texas Rising Stars

March 22, 2023

Super Lawyers has named William Craven, Aaron Holt, and Nandini Sane to its 2023 list of Rising Stars in Texas.

Companies Can’t Demand Silence for Severance, So Do This Before Signing

March 16, 2023

Michael Schmidt was quoted in The Muse discussing a ruling by the NLRB that restricts companies from demanding silence from laid-off employees through confidentiality, non-disclosure, and non-disparagement provisions in their severance agreements.

Janice Sued Agresti Named to Labor Power Players

March 14, 2023

Janice Sued Agresti, an associate in Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, has been named a 2023 Labor Power Player by Politics NY.

Is a noncompete clause holding you back? The law may be changing

March 12, 2023

Michael Schmidt was quoted in the New York Post discussing the Federal Trade Commission's proposed rule which would ban employers from using noncompete agreements.

Employers Can No Longer Mute Departing Workers

March 06, 2023

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Inc. discussing the National Labor Relations Board overturning a 2020 ruling that allowed employers to make confidentiality and non-disparagement clauses a binding part of severance agreements.

Sports Betting Raises Legal Concerns for Employers

February 23, 2023

Nandini Sane spoke with SHRM about the legal challenges employers face with office betting pools and the legalization of sports gambling.

OSHA fines to increase as multiplier goes into effect

February 22, 2023

John Ho was quoted in Business Insurance discussing the latest in safety violation fines by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Six Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Recognized in 2023 Chambers Global Rankings

February 22, 2023

Chambers Global has recognized six Cozen O’Connor attorneys: Susan Eisenberg (Miami – Labor & Employment), Geoffrey Ferrer (New York – Transportation & Trade), Shane Hardy (Toronto – Intellectual Property), Michael Osborne (Toronto – Antitrust & Competition), Joseph Tilson (Chicago – Labor & Employment), and Steven Weisz (Toronto – Bankruptcy & Restructuring) as worldwide leaders in their respective practices.

OSHA Plans to Allow Union Walkthroughs of Nonunion Worksites

February 22, 2023

John Ho was quoted in SHRM discussing a proposed rule from OSHA that would allow a union representative to accompany an OSHA inspector during a walkaround at a nonunion worksite.

Cozen O'Connor attorneys work pro bono to help mother and son earn asylum in United States

February 09, 2023

Matthew DiCianni and Amy Doig spoke with Chicago Lawyer Magazine about working with their client's request for asylum.

How to Respond to Drinking on the Job

February 01, 2023

Debra Friedman was quoted in SHRM discussing how employers should handle the suspicion of an employee drinking on the job or being intoxicated at work.

Can US Employers Recover Damages from Former Employees for ‘Time Theft’?

February 01, 2023

David Barron was quoted in SHRM discussing what employers can do when an employee is accused of time theft.

OSHA Expands Enforcement Against Serious Safety Violators

January 31, 2023

John Ho was quoted in SHRM discussing OSHA's new enforcement guidance and how it applies instance-by-instance citations for serious violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act).

Keep these five employment law issues on your radar this year

January 30, 2023

Nandini Sane spoke with Human Resource Executive about employment law topics that employers should focus on this year.

Eleven Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named 2023 Illinois Super Lawyers

January 26, 2023

Super Lawyers has named 11 attorneys at Cozen O’Connor to its 2023 lists of top practitioners in Illinois.

The public takes aim at "un-American" noncompetes

January 20, 2023

Michael Schmidt spoke with Axios about the Federal Trade Commission's proposed rule banning employers from using noncompete agreements.

Employee Resource Groups May Invite Labor Scrutiny

January 13, 2023

Daniel Johns was quoted in Law360 discussing how employers should be careful with employee resource groups (ERGs) and not inadvertently operate a so-called company union, which could draw the ire of the National Labor Relations Board.

What the proposed ban on noncompete clauses means for you

January 11, 2023

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Automobil News discussing the FTC's proposed ban on noncompete clauses.

Noncompete Ban Tees Up 1st Test Of FTC's Rule Powers

January 05, 2023

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Law360 discussing the Federal Trade Commission's new proposal to ban all noncompete agreements employers impose on their workers.

4 EEOC Cases To Watch In 2023

January 02, 2023

Debra Friedman was quoted in Law360 discussing EEOC v. iTutorGroup and what to watch for in 2023.

California Legislation And Regulation To Watch In 2023

January 02, 2023

Walter Stella was quoted in Law360 discussing the developments of pay transparency in California for 2023.

How Should Employers Handle Controversy Over Office Romances?

December 23, 2022

Aaron Holt was quoted in Zenefits discussing how an office romance could cause problems for a company.

2023 Trends: Legalization of Recreational Marijuana and Therapeutic Psychedelics

December 16, 2022

George Voegele was quoted in SHRM discussing the implications that the legalization of recreational cannabis has on employers.

Arielle Eisenberg to Serve as Co-Chair of ABA Section of Labor and Employment Law Subcommittee

December 13, 2022

Arielle Eisenberg, an associate in the firm’s Labor & Employment Department, has been named co-chair of the ABA Section of Labor and Employment Law Federal Labor Standards Legislation Committee Communications Subcommittee.

Three Cozen O’Connor Attorneys recognized as Crain's Chicago Business 2022 “Notable Gen X Leaders in Law”

December 12, 2022

Three Cozen O’Connor attorneys have been recognized as 2022 Notable Gen X Leaders in Law by Crain’s Chicago Business for their success and accomplishments in their leadership roles within the firm and across the legal community.

John Ho to Serve as Track Co-Chair of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the 17th Annual ABA Labor and Employment Law Conference in 2023

December 05, 2022

John Ho, co-chair of Cozen O'Connor’s OSHA-Workplace Safety Practice, will serve as the management track co-chair for the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Track program for the 17th ABA Annual Section of Labor and Employment Law Conference in Seattle from November 8-11, 2023.

12 Small Business Trends and Predictions for 2023

December 05, 2022

Aaron Holt spoke with the Business News Daily about what to keep an eye on for small businesses in 2023.

GovExec Daily: Holiday Parties in the Age of COVID-19

December 02, 2022

Michael Schmidt joined the GovExec Daily podcast to discuss how organizations can stay safe while celebrating the holidays.

Cozen O’Connor Recognized as a “Best Law Firm” in 30 Practice Areas Nationwide, 115 Practice Areas Regionally

November 30, 2022

U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers recognized Cozen O’Connor as a “Best Law Firm” in 30 practice areas nationwide and 115 practice areas regionally.

John Ho Named to Advisory Board of Thomson Reuters Practical Law’s Labor & Employment Service

November 30, 2022

John Ho, co-chair of Cozen O'Connor’s OSHA-Workplace Safety Practice, will join the Advisory Board of Thomson Reuters Practical Law’s Labor & Employment Service for a two-year term beginning on January 1, 2023.

GovExec Daily: COVID-19, Anxiety and the Workplace

November 30, 2022

David Barron joined the GovExec Daily podcast to discuss mental health accommodations in the workplace.

Biden’s Wage and Hour Division Shies Away From Opinion Letters

November 21, 2022

John Ho was quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing opinion letters from the DOL in regard to how gig workers are classified under wage laws.

Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Win Asylum for Mother and Son Escaping Violence in El Salvador

November 18, 2022

Cozen O'Connor associates Matt DiCianni and Amy Doig recently won a significant pro bono victory in Immigration Court in Chicago.

NYC Employers Adapting to Pay Transparency Law

November 15, 2022

Michael Schmidt was quoted in SHRM discussing New York City's newly enact pay transparency law.

Some Employers Still Require COVID-19 Vaccines

November 08, 2022

David Barron was quoted in SHRM discussing employers requiring COVID-19 vaccination for employees.

How I Made Office Managing Partner: 'Empowerment of Others Is Always a Key Ingredient to Running a Successful Initiative,' Says Susan N. Eisenberg of Cozen O’Connor

October 27, 2022

Susan Eisenberg spoke with Law.com in a Q&A to discuss her time in a leadership role at Cozen O'Connor.

Do's and don'ts for your workplace Halloween

October 25, 2022

Aaron Holt was quoted in the San Francisco Examiner discussing Halloween costumes in the workplace.

New Calif. Laws Employers Should Have On Their Radar

October 14, 2022

Elena Hillman was quoted in Law360 discussing California employment law.

Cozen O’Connor’s Michael Schmidt Honored with Innovation Award from New York Law Journal

October 11, 2022

The New York Law Journal has honored Michael Schmidt, vice chair of the Cozen O’Connor national Labor & Employment Department and New York office managing partner, with a 2022 “Professional Excellence Innovation Award” for the creative use of technology in his practice.

Supreme Court Will Review Damage Claims Incidental to Strikes

October 07, 2022

Daniel Johns was quoted in SHRM discussing how the Supreme Court might rule on how the NLRA typically pre-empts employer claims against unions under state law.

21 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Recognized as New York Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

October 03, 2022

Super Lawyers has named 21 Cozen O'Connor attorneys to its 2022 New York Metro Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists.

Innovation: Michael Schmidt, partner, Cozen O’Connor

October 03, 2022

Michael Schmidt spoke with the New York Law Journal about his time using innovation as an attorney.

OSHA Expands Who May Wind Up on Its ‘Severe Violator’ List

September 26, 2022

John Ho was quoted in SHRM discussing how OSHA recently announced that they are expanding the criteria for placement in its Severe Violator Enforcement Program (SVEP) list and the increased penalties that may come with it.

Challenging Unemployment Compensation Benefits: When Is It Worth It?

September 16, 2022

Debra Friedman was quoted in SHRM discussing employers deciding not to pay unemployment insurance benefits claims.

Cozen O’Connor Attorney John Ho Appointed Vice-Chair of ABA Labor and Employment Law Section Committee

September 14, 2022

New York attorney John Ho, co-chair of Cozen O’Connor’s OSHA-Workplace Safety Practice, was appointed Management Vice-Chair of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) in the Legal Profession Committee of the American Bar Association Labor and Employment Law Section.

Can You Start a Business While on Unemployment?

September 13, 2022

David Barron was quoted in The Balance discussing if someone who is collecting unemployment can start a business.

SLC 2022 Preview: What to do When OSHA Comes Knocking

September 12, 2022

John Ho spoke with EHS Today discussing how to prepare for an OSHA visit as well as how to respond to and even contest citations.

City and State Pennsylvania Names Debra Friedman to Their 2022 Pennsylvania Labor Power 100 List

September 12, 2022

Debra Steiner Friedman, a member of Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, was named to the 2022 Pennsylvania Labor Power 100.

4 Things Employers Could Do To Aid Working Moms

September 08, 2022

Debra Friedman was quoted in Law360 discussing Moms' Equal Pay Day, which represents how far into the year the average mom must work to earn what the average dad took home in 2021.

Cozen O’Connor Attorney Anna Wermuth Named one of Crain’s 2022 “Notable Women in Law”

September 08, 2022

Anna Wermuth, vice-chair of Cozen O’Connor’s national Labor & Employment Department, has been named to the 2022 list of Chicago’s “Notable Women in Law” by Crain’s Chicago Business.

Preventable falls frustrate safety officials

September 01, 2022

John Ho was quoted in Business Insurance discussing how falls from heights are the number one cause of death of workers, but the hazard remains the most-cited workplace safety violation year after year despite being relatively easy to prevent.

CEOs: Should You Be Publicly Weighing-in on Layoffs?

August 30, 2022

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Talent Management discussing the risks a CEO is making with a public statement about layoffs.

Objections to Disclosure of EEO-1 Data Due Sept. 19

August 26, 2022

Debra Friedman was quoted in SHRM discussing how federal contractors that submit EEO-1 reports don't have much time to object to the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs' (OFCCP's) recently announced disclosure to the public of EEO-1 data.

Lawdragon Names Six Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Among The Top 500 Leading U.S. Corporate Employment Lawyers

August 24, 2022

Lawdragon has named six members of Cozen O’Connor’s Labor & Employment Department to its 2022 list of the Top 500 Leading U.S. Corporate Employment Lawyers.

OSHA Fines Dollar General $1.3 Million over Safety Issues

August 22, 2022

John Ho spoke with SHRM about how the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has fined Dollar General approximately $1.3 million over workplace safety issues at three stores in Georgia.

Six Cozen O’Connor Lawyers Named 2023 “Lawyers of the Year” by Best Lawyers

August 22, 2022

Geoffrey Ferrer, James Forsyth, J. Bruce Maffeo, Suzanne Mayes, Jason Shargel, and Anna Wermuth received the highest annual ratings from their peers.

More Than 200 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named Best Lawyers and Ones to Watch

August 22, 2022

210 Cozen O’Connor lawyers from 24 of the firm’s nationwide offices for inclusion in the 2023 edition of The Best Lawyers in America.

What Should Employers Do When a Worker Tests Positive for COVID-19? [SHRM]

August 12, 2022

Arielle Eisenberg was quoted in SHRM discussing the latest on when an employee tests positive for COVID-19.

Mariah Passarelli Appointed to the Western District of Pennsylvania’s Local Rules Advisory Committee

August 01, 2022

Mariah Passarelli, a member of Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, has been appointed to serve on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania’s Local Rules Advisory Committee.

Two Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Honored by Texas Lawyer

July 26, 2022

Alicia Curran was awarded a Best Mentor designation and Holt was recognized as a lawyer On The Rise.

Super Lawyers Names Two Cozen O’Connor Attorneys to 2022 Northern CA List

July 25, 2022

Super Lawyers has named two Cozen O’Connor attorneys to its 2022 Northern California Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists.

OSHA Penalties Can Run the Gamut from Nothing to Millions

July 18, 2022

John Ho was quoted in SHRM discussing OSHA penalties for violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act).

Super Lawyers Names 10 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys to its 2022 Florida List

July 11, 2022

Super Lawyers has named 10 Cozen O’Connor attorneys to its 2022 Florida Super Lawyers list.

Labor Upheaval May Spell Peril For Unpaid Internships

June 27, 2022

John Ho was quoted in Law360 discussing the challenges employers face when creating unpaid internships.

What could a 32-hour workweek mean for California employers?

June 23, 2022

Ethan Chernin spoke with HR Dive about a bill in California that could change the state's definition of a workweek from 40 hours to 32 hours per week.

'Stop Treating Us Like School Kids': Worker Tensions Over Returning to Office Bubbling Over

June 06, 2022

David Barron was quoted in Law.com discussing how workers are unhappy about returning to the office and how they are playing a legal card.

Chambers Ranks 86 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 22 Practice Areas in Chambers USA 2022 Guide

June 02, 2022

Chambers USA, the leading annual guide to the top lawyers and law firms in the United States, has ranked 86 Cozen O’Connor lawyers as leaders in their respective fields in the guide’s 2022 edition.

49 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys Named Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

June 01, 2022

Super Lawyers has selected 49 Cozen O'Connor attorneys to the 2022 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists.

How Employers Can Avoid Making Remote Work a Legal Minefield

May 31, 2022

David Barron and Aaron Holt were quoted in Law.com discussing the challenges employers face with remote workers.

Mariah Passarelli Named Women of Influence Award Winner

May 25, 2022

Mariah Passarelli, a member of Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, was named a 2022 Women of Influence Award Winner by the Pittsburgh Business Times.

Are Labor Unions Making a Comeback in America?

May 23, 2022

Daniel Johns joined the Shaping Opinion podcast to talk about why all of a sudden employees at some well-known companies are organizing to unionize their workforces.

Cozen O’Connor’s Anna Wermuth Named to The American Lawyer’s 2022 Midwest Trailblazers List

May 16, 2022

Anna Wermuth, vice-chair of Cozen O’Connor’s national Labor & Employment Department, has been named to The American Lawyer’s 2022 list of Midwest Trailblazers.

Three Cozen O’Connor Attorney’s Named 2022 Texas Rising Stars

April 26, 2022

Super Lawyers has named William Craven (Insurance Coverage), Aaron Holt (Labor & Employment), and Nandini Sane (Labor & Employment) to its 2022 list of Rising Stars in Texas.

OSHA heat hazards program raises enforcement issues

April 20, 2022

John Ho was quoted in Business Insurance discussing heat-related workplace inspections to protect workers from injuries or fatalities.

Working through bereavement requires more than just a few days off

April 10, 2022

Debra Friedman was quoted in the New York Post discussing bereavement policies.

Next Steps When an Employee Gives Notice of Quitting

April 04, 2022

David Barron was quoted in SHRM discussing when it is appropriate to immediately dismiss an employee even after they have given their notice of resignation.

As Mask Mandates Lift, What Happens to Employers’ Liability Exposures?

April 01, 2022

John Ho was quoted in Risk & Insurance discussing COVID-19 workplace safety strategies.

Lawyers say NYC’s lifted vaccine mandate for athletes, performers poses legal liability

March 25, 2022

Jim Sullivan was quoted in City & State New York discussing New York City's Mayor Eric Adams lifting the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for performers and athletes while keeping it in place for all other private and public employees.

How employers should handle March Madness at work

March 18, 2022

David Barron joined This Morning with Gordon Deal to explain why you should embrace March Madness at work this year.

How Employers Can Approach March Madness Office Betting Pools

March 15, 2022

Nandini Sane spoke with SHRM about how employers can handle office pools with March Madness.

New #MeToo Arbitration Law to Be Cited in Push for Broader Bill

March 11, 2022

Aaron Holt was quoted in SHRM discussing the latest with the Forced Arbitration Injustice Repeal Act.

Federal Heat Stress Worker Protection Rule Faces Legal Fires

March 10, 2022

Jim Sullivan spoke with Bloomberg Law about potential legal problems that loom for OSHA's proposed worker heat protection rule.

When preparing to reopen, experts suggest planning for long COVID-19

March 09, 2022

David Barron spoke with HR Dive discussing how long COVID-19 may constitute a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Signing Bonuses Have Some Drawbacks

March 07, 2022

Michael Schmidt spoke with SHRM about the challenges employers face when an employee signs a signing bonus.

OSHRC Clarifies ‘Bounds’ Of Single-Employer Doctrine In New Decision

March 07, 2022

Jim Sullivan spoke with Inside OSHA about a new decision from the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission that appears aimed at clarifying the limits of its test for determining when separate entities may be considered a “single employer” in OSHA enforcement actions.

President Signs Bill Banning Mandatory Arbitration for Certain Claims

March 03, 2022

Susan Eisenberg spoke with SHRM about President Biden signing a bill into law that bans enforcement of pre-dispute arbitration pacts for sexual harassment and sexual assault claims.

Leading Lawyers Network Recognizes 23 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers as Top Illinois Practitioners

March 02, 2022

The Leading Lawyers Network has named 22 Cozen O’Connor lawyers to its annual list of Illinois’ top practitioners and named one other as an Emerging Lawyer in its 2022 survey results.

OSHA plans to step up safety missions beyond COVID

February 23, 2022

John Ho spoke with Newsday discussing that companies shouldn't drop their guard on COVID-19.

Four Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Recognized in 2022 Chambers Global Rankings

February 17, 2022

Chambers Global has recognized four Cozen O’Connor attorneys: Susan Eisenberg (Miami – Labor & Employment), Geoffrey Ferrer (New York – Transportation & Trade), Shane Hardy (Toronto – Intellectual Property), and Joseph Tilson (Chicago – Labor & Employment), as worldwide leaders in their respective practices.

How employers can help their employees feel safe when returning to the office

February 17, 2022

Michael Schmidt joined This Morning with Gordon Deal to discuss how employers can help their employees feel safe when returning to the office.

What To Consider Before Firing Vaccine-Averse Employees

February 16, 2022

Michael Schmidt spoke with Law360 about New York City's recent firing of more than 1,400 workers who refused COVID-19 vaccinations.

The Supreme Court Ruling Affects the Public and Private Workforce

February 08, 2022

John Ho joined the GovExec Daily podcast to discuss the Supreme Court's decision to block President Biden’s federal vaccine mandate that would enforce a vaccine-or-test requirement for employees at private businesses with 100 or more employees.

Attys Want In-Person Bargaining, But Zoom Likely To Persist

February 02, 2022

Daniel Johns spoke with Law360 discussing virtual negotiations with unions during COVID-19.

Vaccine Mandate Likely Defeated Following Supreme Court Stay

January 20, 2022

John Ho was quoted in Transport Topics discussing the OSHA COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

Employers are on their own after court guts Biden vaccine-or-testing mandate

January 15, 2022

John Ho was quoted in the Philadelphia Inquirer discussing the latest on COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

New safety workplace laws for COVID-19 go into effect

January 14, 2022

Walter Stella spoke with KCBS Radio discussing the new CAL/OSHA COVID-19 safety workplace laws are going into effect and will strengthen requirements for good-quality face coverings and testing or exposure protocols.

Mixed response from businesses after SCOTUS ruling on vaccine mandates

January 14, 2022

Michael Schmidt spoke with NBC News about COVID-19 vaccine mandates at work.

What Employers Need To Know About Vaccine Mandates Following SCOTUS Ruling

January 14, 2022

David Barron was quoted in Forbes discussing the Biden administration's vaccine mandate blocked in a Supreme Court ruling.

Supreme Court strikes down Biden vaccine mandate, but ruling has limits

January 13, 2022

Jim Sullivan spoke with KYW Newsradio about the recent Supreme Court decision to block the vaccine-or-test mandate from President Joe Biden’s administration but allow vaccine mandates for most health care workers.

OSHRC Widens Leeway For Employers’ ‘Good Faith’ Faults In Litigation

January 12, 2022

Jim Sullivan spoke with Inside OSHA about OSHA's decision in Secretary of Labor v. Knock Out Homes, Inc. which reinstates a Colorado construction company’s appeal of several OSHA citations with a proposed penalty of $41,349, overturning an administrative law judge’s (ALJ) default judgment against the employer over its failure to respond to the proceeding.

A key question as SCOTUS weighs vaccine rule for businesses: What if unvaccinated workers can’t find COVID-19 tests?

January 07, 2022

Michael Schmidt spoke with Market Watch about the challenges employers face with unvaccinated employees and the lack of COVID-19 testing availability.

Crunch time for workplace vaccine mandates: U.S. Supreme Court to weigh in

January 04, 2022

John Ho spoke with the Philadelphia Inquirer about OSHA's COVID-19 vaccine mandate in the workplace.

High Court To Scrutinize Vaccine Rules As 2022 Kicks Off

January 03, 2022

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Law360 discussing OSHA's emergency rule of the COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

New labor laws to go into effect on January 1, 2022

December 31, 2021

Walter Stella joined KCBS Radio to discuss new labor laws that will go into effect throughout California in 2022.

Omicron could force many workers who test positive to quarantine under federal mandate, intensifying labor shortages

December 28, 2021

James Sullivan spoke with Yahoo! finance about the impact the omicron variant is having on employers.

Supreme Court arguments set for this week as local companies seek clarity on vaccine mandates

December 27, 2021

John Ho spoke with Yahoo! news about how employers can handle the vaccination status of employees.

Return to office paused (again) as COVID rages. Will we ever go back to the office?

December 23, 2021

Jim Sullivan was quoted in USA Today discussing the latest on the Biden administration's COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

OSHRC Mandates Fall Protections For Road Work But Leaves Methods Open

December 21, 2021

Jim Sullivan was quoted in Inside OSHA discussing a new decision by the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission (OSHRC) that road construction companies must adopt fall-protection measures for employees working from the backs of moving vehicles.

OSHA Sets Jan. 10 ETS Deadline After Split 6th Circuit Panel Lifts Stay

December 20, 2021

Jim Sullivan spoke with Inside OSHA about how OSHA plans to start enforcing its COVID-19 vaccination emergency temporary standard (ETS) on January 10, with employer vaccine policies to take effect February. 9 -- provided employers make “good faith efforts” to comply -- after a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit voted 2-1 to dissolve an earlier order staying the rule.

EEOC Clarifies When COVID-19 May Be an ADA-Covered Disability

December 16, 2021

David Barron was quoted in SHRM discussing how an employee's or job applicant's COVID-19 related impairment may qualify as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

More companies suspend vaccine mandates, including hospitals and Amtrak

December 16, 2021

David Barron spoke with DNYUZ about why some employers are not mandating the COVID-19 vaccine.

‘I Was Wrong’: Omicron Wrecks CEOs’ Plans for Office Return

December 16, 2021

John Ho was quoted in Bloomberg Quint about how employers are navigating returning to the office with the omicron variant rising.

Growing number of companies suspend vaccine mandates, including hospitals and Amtrak

December 16, 2021

David Barron was quoted in Yahoo! news discussing employers handling vaccine mandates.

David Hackett Named Chairman of the Board of Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry

December 15, 2021

Hackett has served on the board for the past five years, serving as chair-elect for the past two years.

Leading the Way: Cozen O'Connor's Susan Eisenberg on Leading a Northern Firm's Florida Expansion

December 15, 2021

Susan Eisenberg did a Q&A with the Daily Business Review discussing challenges and other decisions that will shape the direction of the Miami office and the firm at large for years to come.

New York City Attempts to Implement Vaccine Mandate

December 09, 2021

John Ho spoke with World at Work about New York City's vaccine mandate for private employers that operate in the city.

What Should Employers Do When a Worker Tests Positive for COVID-19?

December 08, 2021

Arielle Eisenberg was quoted in SHRM discussing the latest involving OSHA's COVID-19 ETS for employers.

NYC Shot Mandate Built to Withstand Suits, Lawyers Say

December 07, 2021

Jim Sullivan spoke with Bloomberg Law about New York City's newly announced COVID-19 vaccination mandate for private-sector workers.

Omicron extends uncertainty about return to office

December 03, 2021

John Ho spoke with Search HR Software about the latest in COVID-19 vaccination requirements.

More than half of employers to require COVID vaccines as omicron fears grow

December 01, 2021

John Ho spoke with CNBC about employers handling the COVID-19 vaccine mandate at work.

3 Tips For Employers Worries About The Omicron Variant

November 30, 2021

John Ho was quoted in Law360 discussing best practices for employers handling the omicron variant of COVID-19.

Three Cozen O’Connor Attorneys recognized as Crain's Chicago Business 2021 “Notable Gen X Leaders in Law”

November 29, 2021

Three Cozen O’Connor attorneys have been recognized as 2021 Chicago Notable Gen X Leaders in Law by Crain’s Chicago Business for their success and accomplishments in their leadership roles within the firm and across the legal community.

Constitutional Claims a Threat to COVID-19 Shot-or-Test Rule

November 23, 2021

Jim Sullivan was quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing the OSHA ETS on the COVID-19 vaccine.

Lawdragon Names six Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Among the Top 500 Leading U.S. Corporate Employment Lawyers

November 19, 2021

Lawdragon has named six members of Cozen O’Connor’s Labor & Employment Department to its 2021 list of the Top 500 Leading U.S. Corporate Employment Lawyers.

Better on Zoom: Attorneys Are Creating Strategies to Aid Videoconferencing in Mediation

November 18, 2021

Susan Eisenberg was quoted in the Daily Business Review discussing using zoom for mediation.

Stakeholders Want Specific Guidelines from OSHA Heat Standard

November 16, 2021

Jim Sullivan was quoted in SHRM discussing the new OSHA standards in place by the Biden administration with heat-related dangers in the workplace.

Biden vaccine mandate is on maintain. Here’s why employers should still comply

November 10, 2021

John Ho spoke with USA News Lab about how employers are handling the Biden administration's new vaccine rule.

It’s Imperative for Employers to Monitor OSHA’s COVID Guidelines

November 08, 2021

Debra Friedman joined the CPA Conversations podcast to provide the latest information on OSHA guidelines related to COVID-19.

Court blocks enforcement of vaccine mandate

November 07, 2021

John Ho was quoted in the San Francisco Chronicle discussing a federal appeals court temporarily freezing a Biden administration mandate for the COVID-19 vaccine.

Cozen O’Connor Recognized as a “Best Law Firm” in 29 Practice Areas Nationwide, 121 Practice Areas Regionally

November 04, 2021

U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers recognized Cozen O’Connor as a “Best Law Firm” in 29 practice areas nationwide and 121 practice areas regionally.

Biden’s vaccine mandate will require most Philly-area private sector workers to get a jab

November 04, 2021

Jim Sullivan was quoted in the Philadelphia Inquirer discussing the latest on the emergency safety rules from the Biden administration that workers must be vaccinated by January 4 or undergo weekly COVID-19 testing.

U.S. mandates COVID vaccines or tests for companies with 100+ employees by Jan. 4

November 04, 2021

John Ho spoke with PIX11 about the OSHA COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

What to make of the new U.S. mandate for COVID-19 vaccines or tests for big companies

November 04, 2021

Jeremy Glenn spoke with FOX32 Chicago about the new US mandate encouraging vaccinations in larger businesses that is set to go into effect next year.

Remote Workers Are Exempt from OSHA Requirement to Be Vaccinated or Test for COVID-19

November 04, 2021

John Ho spoke with SHRM about the latest on the OSHA ETS COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

How will testing unvaccinated employees work under Biden's vaccine mandate?

November 04, 2021

David Barron was quoted in the Dallas Morning News discussing the challenges employers face with the latest COVID-19 vaccine requirements for employers of 100 or more employees.

Vaccine Mandates: Supreme Court Likely to Weigh in 'Before This Pandemic is Over'

November 02, 2021

Michael Schmidt was quoted in The Wealth Advisor discussing the latest with OSHA's ETS COVID-19 mandate.

OSHA Looks to California, Other States on Proposed Heat Standard

November 01, 2021

John Ho was quoted in SHRM discussing California's standards on preventing heat illness and deaths that will be reviewed by OSHA.

What will happen when Texas' ban on COVID-19 vaccine mandates conflicts with the federal vaccine requirement

October 13, 2021

Debra Steiner Friedman spoke with CNN about Texas Governor Greg Abbott's new executive order that bans any entity in Texas from enforcing a COVID-19 vaccine mandate, a rule that directly conflicts with President Joe Biden's proposed rules requiring COVID vaccines for federal workers and for large employers.

Two Cozen O’Connor attorneys Named 2021 Texas Super Lawyers

October 04, 2021

Two Cozen O’Connor Attorneys were named 2021 Texas Super Lawyers.

Want a medical exemption for the COVID-19 vaccine? Good luck with that.

September 23, 2021

Michael Schmidt spoke with CBS News about COVID-19 exemptions for employees.

Debra Steiner Friedman Appointed to Philadelphia Youth Network’s Board of Directors

September 22, 2021

The Philadelphia Youth Network (PYN) has appointed Debra Steiner Friedman as their new board chair to oversee PYN’s board of directors.

East Tennessee companies await federal vaccine mandate guidance before they set new rules

September 16, 2021

James Sullivan was quoted in the Knoxville News Sentinel discussing the challenges companies face with President Biden's COVID-19 mandate.

Labor unions, a key Democratic ally, lukewarm on Biden vaccine mandate

September 12, 2021

James Sullivan was quoted in Yahoo! News discussing two executive orders that would mandate vaccines for more than two-thirds of working Americans.

U.S. companies are reacting differently to orders

September 12, 2021

James Sullivan spoke with Texas News Today about President Biden's COVID-19 vaccination obligations for companies with more than 100 employees.

Some businesses welcome Biden's vaccination mandate while others worry about the costs, effects on worker shortages

September 12, 2021

James Sullivan was quoted in the USA Today discussing President Biden’s COVID-19 vaccination mandate for firms with 100 or more employees.

What do Biden’s new COVID-19 requirements mean for North Texas businesses? Here’s what we know

September 10, 2021

James Sullivan spoke with The Dallas Morning News to discuss if President Biden's new COVID-19 vaccine requirements are legal for private businesses.

Cozen O’Connor Attorney Michael Schmidt Elected Fellow of The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers

September 02, 2021

Michael Schmidt, vice-chair of Cozen O’Connor’s national Labor & Employment Department, has been elected a fellow in The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers.

Employers are revisiting early-pandemic policies as delta variant surges

August 30, 2021

Michele Ballard Miller spoke with HR Dive about handling the recent COVID-19 surge.

Workers fired for refusing vaccination unlikely to qualify for unemployment

August 24, 2021

John Ho spoke with NPR's Marketplace Morning Report to discuss the FDA approval of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine has given workplace mandates a stronger foundation.

How employers can mandate coronavirus vaccines, according to expert

August 24, 2021

John Ho joined CNBC's Squawk Box to discuss whether employers can mandate coronavirus vaccines.

FDA vaccine approval is good news for markets, employment, economy

August 23, 2021

Michael Schmidt was quoted in NBC News discussing the FDA's approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech's two-dose COVID-19 vaccine.

More Than 205 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named Best Lawyers and Ones to Watch By The Best Lawyers In America

August 19, 2021

Best Lawyers selected 210 Cozen O’Connor lawyers from 23 of the firm’s nationwide offices for inclusion in the 2022 edition of The Best Lawyers in America.

Should ‘Deskless’ and Office Workers Be Treated Differently?

August 19, 2021

Michele Ballard Miller and Ethan Chernin were quoted in SHRM discussing how the recent focus on the return to worksites and hybrid work, employers risk overlooking "deskless" employees who never had the option to work remotely.

4 Things To Know About COVID 'Long-Haulers' At Work

August 13, 2021

Michael Schmidt spoke to Law360 Pulse to discuss the challenges employers face with employees with long-term COVID-19 symptoms.

Forget Government Mandates. Companies Are Calling the Shots

August 12, 2021

Michael Schmidt was quoted in U.S. News discussing businesses enforcing COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

'Everyone is Emotionally Exhausted': Law Firms on Back Foot Amid Delta Variant Surge in South Florida

August 11, 2021

Susan Eisenberg spoke with the Daily Business Review about the recent rise in COVID-19 cases and the impact it has on returning to the office.

Won't get a COVID vaccine? Some bosses may charge you $20 to $50 more for health insurance on every paycheck

August 10, 2021

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Press From discussing mandating the COVID-19 vaccine in the workplace.

Mandating vaccines amid a worker shortage could spell trouble for corporate America

August 06, 2021

John Ho was quoted in Yahoo! News discussing companies mandating the COVID-19 vaccine at work.

Michael Schmidt on KCOL

August 05, 2021

Michael Schmidt joined KCOL-AM in Denver, Colorado to discuss rules on masks in the workplace.

‘Soft’ Vaccine Mandates Seen as Boon to Worker Buy-In, Safety

August 04, 2021

David Barron spoke with Bloomberg Law about the latest on offices reopening with COVID-19 vaccination policies.

Here’s where return-to-office plans stand now

August 03, 2021

David Barron was quoted in CNBC discussing the latest on returning to work.

Pandemic and Heat Create Workplace Risks

August 02, 2021

John Ho was quoted in SHRM discussing how employers can prepare their employees for the uncomfortable conditions they may face with the summer heat while wearing a mask due to the pandemic.

Private Employers Wrestle With Trying To Vaccinate Their Workforce

July 30, 2021

Michael Schmidt joined NPR to discuss employers mandating the COVID-19 vaccine.

South Florida Firms Respond to Morgan Stanley CLO: 'Most of Our GCs Aren't Focusing on How the Sausage Gets Made'

July 28, 2021

Susan Eisenberg spoke with the Daily Business Review about clients' perspectives on where the work is being done.

Managers will have to enforce rules for unvaccinated employees, and it won't be easy

July 28, 2021

Michael Schmidt was quoted in CNN Business discussing how to handle unvaccinated employees.

What You Need to Know About HIPAA and Vaccine Status

July 23, 2021

David Barron was quoted in Inc. discussing the confusion that comes with asking someone about their COVID-19 vaccination status.

Delays, More Masks and Mandatory Shots: Virus Surge Disrupts Office-Return Plans

July 23, 2021

David Barron was quoted in The New York Times discussing the possibility of employers implementing mandatory COVID-19 vaccine policies.

Michael Schmidt Honored by The National Law Journal

July 21, 2021

Michael Schmidt, vice chair of Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, was named an Employment Law Trailblazer by The National Law Journal for 2021.

How do the new masking recommendations affect workplaces?

July 20, 2021

Walter Stella spoke with KCBS Radio on what we should know about requirements as we look ahead to returning to the office.

Remind Returning Employees of Professional Expectations

July 16, 2021

Aaron Holt spoke to SHRM about how employees who have gotten used to working from home may need a refresher on professional expectations when they return to the office.

What to say if a job interviewer asks:

July 14, 2021

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Biz Instant discussing how employers should handle a job candidate asking about location preference in the interview.

Cozen O’Connor Attorney Anna Wermuth Receives Women in Law Honor from Chicago Daily Law Bulletin & Chicago Lawyer

July 09, 2021

Anna Wermuth, vice-chair of Cozen O’Connor’s national Labor & Employment Department, has been named to the second annual Salute! Women in Law Award list by the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin and Chicago Lawyer magazine.

Why Your Return to the Office Requires Two Workplace Safety Policies

July 09, 2021

David Barron spoke with Inc. about the challenges employers face with the return to work policies.

Legal challenges for vaccinated and unvaccinated workers

July 07, 2021

Jeremy Glenn spoke with FOX 32 Chicago about the legal challenges for vaccinated and unvaccinated works at the office.

Cozen O’Connor Attorney Anna Wermuth Named to Illinois Northern District Rules Advisory Committee

June 24, 2021

Anna Wermuth, Vice-Chair of Cozen O’Connor’s national Labor and Employment Department, has been appointed to the Rules Advisory Committee of the U.S. District Court, of the Northern District of Illinois.

Super Lawyers Names Five Cozen O’Connor Attorneys to its 2021 Florida List

June 24, 2021

Super Lawyers has named five Cozen O’Connor attorneys to its 2021 Florida Super Lawyers list.

California Reopening Prompts Changes to Workplace Safety Policies

June 22, 2021

Walter Stella was quoted in SHRM discussing how businesses must comply with applicable federal, state, and local requirements.

Why California workers could still keep masks after OSHA ruling

June 18, 2021

Walter Stella spoke with KCBS Radio about how indoor workplaces in California are clear to allow workers vaccinated against COVID-19 to no longer wear a mask, but that doesn’t mean businesses have to.

South Florida Attorneys Support Zoom Court for Simple Hearings

June 18, 2021

Susan Eisenberg was quoted in the Daily Business Review discussing how remote work has been a benefit for attorneys.

Navigating the new hybrid workplace

June 16, 2021

Michael Schmidt joined This Morning with Gordon Deal to discuss what employers and employees can expect when they head back to the office.

Vaccinated workers in California could go maskless under proposed workplace rules

June 11, 2021

Michele Ballard Miller was quoted in the San Francisco Chronicle discussing job setting rules proposed Friday by California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health.

Goldman Sachs memo stirs up debate on employee vaccinations

June 11, 2021

Michael Schmidt was quoted in NBC News discussing how some companies have little appetite for the potential legal and public relations headaches related to vaccination mandates.

Mariah Passarelli Elected to the Allegheny County Board of Governors

June 10, 2021

Mariah Passarelli, a member of Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, was voted to a three-year term on the Allegheny County Board of Governors with the Allegheny County Bar Association.

The jobs are coming back — but the workers are not

June 09, 2021

David Barron spoke with NBC News about the challenges companies face when returning to work.

Employers Contend with Conflicts over Masks, Vaccinations

June 04, 2021

David Barron spoke with SHRM about how the CDC's recent guidance on masks has encouraged some vaccinated employees to go maskless in the workplace.

Cal OSHA will keep indoor mask mandate

June 04, 2021

Walter Stella spoke with KCBS Radio about Cal OSHA enacting rules for workplaces that require all employees to continue wearing face masks if just one among them isn't fully vaccinated.

John Ho on KOGO-AM

June 03, 2021

John Ho joined KOGO-AM in San Diego to discuss what the June 15 re-opening of California means for being at work.

What Happens When Mental-Health Issues Get in the Way of Work

June 03, 2021

Debra Friedman was quoted in The Wall Street Journal discussing how employers will work to accommodate mental-health needs, but there are limits.

Walter Stella on KCBS-AM

June 01, 2021

Walter Stella appeared on KCBS-AM discussing the upcoming Cal OSHA vote on COVID-19 guidelines.

47 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys Named Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

May 28, 2021

Super Lawyers has selected 47 Cozen O'Connor attorneys to the 2021 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists.

82 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 19 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2021 Guide

May 26, 2021

Chambers USA, the leading annual guide to the top lawyers and law firms in the United States, has ranked 82 Cozen O’Connor lawyers as leaders in their respective fields in the guide’s 2021 edition; of those, 15 lawyers have been recognized nationally.

University of Pennsylvania Health System makes rare move to require COVID-19 vaccines for employees

May 20, 2021

Michael Schmidt spoke to the Philadelphia Inquirer about the University of Pennsylvania Health System requiring all employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by September 1.

‘Public Health 101 failure’: CDC mask decision may knock out Biden’s workplace Covid crackdown

May 18, 2021

David Barron was quoted in Yahoo! News discussing the impact of the CDC mask-dropping guidance for those who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 in the workplace.

What employers need to know about mask mandates at work

May 17, 2021

David Barron joined This Morning with Gordon Deal to discuss the latest CDC mask guidelines and how it applies in the workplace.

Masks for thee, but not for me?

May 17, 2021

David Barron was quoted in Politico discussing if employees should still be required to wear masks on the job.

These Are Your Rights If You Don't Feel Safe At Work Without A Mask

May 17, 2021

John Ho was quoted in the Huffington Post discussing wearing a mask at work.

How Companies Can Avoid A Crisis Created By CDC’s New Mask Guidelines

May 14, 2021

David Barron was quoted in Forbes discussing how the latest CDC mask guidelines impact employers.

CDC relaxes mask guidance, but employers are left waiting on OSHA

May 14, 2021

David Barron was quoted in HR Dive discussing how the latest CDC mask guidelines impact employers.

Will the Recent CDC Guidelines Along with State Mandates Regarding Face Masks Create Two Classes of Employees? Is That Even Fair?

May 14, 2021

David Barron was interviewed by Law.com discussing what changing face mask rules mean for the workplace.

Most employers plan to incentivize workers to get the vaccine — but some will require it

May 05, 2021

John Ho spoke with Yahoo! News about employers forcing employees to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Best Mentors: Open and Frank, Jennifer M. Taylor 'Sees the Person in Front of Her'

May 03, 2021

Jennifer Taylor was highlighted in the Daily Business Review about how she has devoted her career to building the confidence of young lawyers.

Employers Deal with Workers’ Lost Vaccination Cards

April 21, 2021

David Barron was quoted in SHRM discussing the possibility of mandatory vaccinations at work.

Employers Appeal OSHA Virus Citations at Five Times Typical Rate

April 19, 2021

Jim Sullivan was quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing employers filing appeals of COVID-19 citations with OSHA.

Can You Be Fired for Not Returning to the Office?

April 15, 2021

Michael Schmidt joined the Bloomberg Law podcast to discuss the legal and practical implications of employees not wanting to return to the office after working remotely.

Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department Recognized by Chambers USA

April 15, 2021

Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment department was shortlisted for the Firm of the Year award by Chambers USA.

Labor, workplace rule changes expected under Biden administration

April 14, 2021

Jeremy Glenn was quoted in Capital Press discussing President Biden nominating Julie Su, California's current labor secretary, to be deputy labor secretary.

Where Are OSHA’s COVID Standards?

April 13, 2021

John Ho was quoted in EHS Today discussing why Secretary Walsh has chosen to hold back on publishing the ETS.

How to Convince Employees to Keep Wearing Masks

April 06, 2021

Michael Schmidt was quoted in SHRM discussing the challenges that employers face when vaccinated employees want to stop wearing masks at work.

Internships 'somewhat in flux' as employers make reopening decisions

April 06, 2021

Aaron Holt was quoted in HR Dive discussing the challenges that businesses face when deciding if an internship should be paid or unpaid.

Former OSHRC Chair Sees Precedent Shaping OSHA’s COVID-19 Plans

April 05, 2021

Jim Sullivan was quoted in Inside OSHA Online discussing the Biden administration's OSHA plan.

JD Supra Selects Four Cozen O’Connor Attorneys as Top Authors

April 05, 2021

Cozen O’Connor is pleased to announce that Bernard Nash and Lori Kalani, co-chairs of the firm’s State Attorneys General practice, Michael Schmidt, vice chair of the firm’s Labor & Employment Department, and Rachel Welford, an attorney in the firm’s Transportation & Trade Group have been selected as top authors for JD Supra’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards for their thought leadership on key topics during 2020.

Cozen O'Connor Partner Jennifer Taylor Thrives on Mentorship

April 05, 2021

Jennifer Taylor was highlighted in the Daily Business Review about how she has devoted her career to building the confidence of young lawyers and young people in South Florida.

Susan Eisenberg and Jennifer Taylor Selected as Honorees for the DBR’s Florida Legal Awards

April 01, 2021

Cozen O’Connor is pleased to announce that Susan Eisenberg and Jennifer Taylor, members of the firm’s Labor & Employment Department, have been selected as honorees for the Daily Business Review’s Florida Legal Awards.

OSHA sharpens focus of COVID-19 safety efforts

April 01, 2021

John Ho was quoted in Business Insurance discussing OSHA's National Emphasis Program to focus its enforcement efforts on industries with the largest number of workers at serious risk of contracting the coronavirus.

Cozen O’Connor Welcomes Back James J. Sullivan, Jr., Former Chairman, Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission to the Firm’s Labor and Employment Department

March 25, 2021

Sullivan will be joining the Washington, D.C., office as a member of the Labor & Employment Department and as co-chair of the OSHA-Workplace Safety Practice Group.

How To Beat The Legal Heat This Summer Internship Season

March 22, 2021

David Barron spoke to Law360 about the upcoming summer internship season and the legal challenges.

Hiring For The Future: A Playbook For Building A Diverse, Inclusive & Equitable Workforce­

March 18, 2021

Nandini Sane was quoted in Forbes discussing key considerations every recruiter, leader and hiring manager should consider as they look to build their workforce.

Take Steps to Fight Pandemic Fatigue

March 08, 2021

David Barron was quoted in SHRM discussing how pandemic fatigue is creating challenges and legal risks that employers need to address.

Workers who feel unsafe returning to work can collect unemployment checks

March 03, 2021

David Barron spoke with FOX26 Houston about the new safety protocols that OSHA is issuing.

I know you are but what am I?

March 03, 2021

David Barron joined the Jimmy Barrett Show to discuss Texas lifting COVID-19 restrictions and how to handle the new rules with your employees and customers.

Can an Employer Fire Workers Who Are Scared to Return to the Office?

March 01, 2021

Howard Schweitzer and Michael Schmidt were quoted in SHRM discussing what businesses should do if an employee refuses to come back to work when they re-open.

California Courts Grapple With Proposition 22’s Gig Fallout

February 25, 2021

Michele Ballard Miller was quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing Proposition 22.

Tips For Employers Reeling From The Texas Weather Crisis

February 19, 2021

David Barron was quoted in Law360 discussing the severe cold weather crisis in Texas.

Many Firms Aren’t Paying OSHA Fines Levied for COVID-19 Safety Violations: Reuters

February 18, 2021

John Ho was quoted in Insurance Journal discussing the penalties that companies face with COVID-19 outbreaks in the workplace.

Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Eisenberg, Ferrer, Giotto and Tilson Recognized in 2021 Chambers Global Rankings

February 18, 2021

Chambers Global has recognized four Cozen O’ Connor attorneys, Susan Eisenberg (Miami – Labor & Employment), Geoffrey Ferrer (New York – Transportation & Trade), Thomas Giotto (Pittsburgh – Labor and Employment) and Joseph Tilson (Chicago – Labor & Employment), as worldwide leaders in their respective practices. All four attorneys are also ranked in the Chambers USA Guide.

Vaccinated or not, many workers want to remain remote

February 18, 2021

Michael Schmidt was quoted in CNBC discussing employees returning to work once they are vaccinated.

Employer perks for COVID-19 vaccinated workers could draw legal challenges

February 16, 2021

John Ho was quoted in Yahoo! Finance discussing how employers may incentivize employees in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

OSHA Virus Emergency Rule Looms as Potent Weapon for Litigation

February 12, 2021

David Barron and John Ho were quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing COVID-19 OSHA citations.

What the COVID vaccine rollout means for returning to the workplace

February 12, 2021

Debra Friedman was quoted in Go News Today discussing the approach employers can take with the COVID-19 vaccine.

When Will You Be Able to Get Vaccinated at Work?

February 10, 2021

John Ho spoke with CNBC about how the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently issued guidance that paves the way for how companies will be able to make a COVID vaccine available at no cost to all eligible employees.

Vaccines, The Law and Your Workers: What Small Businesses Should Know About Requiring Vaccinations

February 09, 2021

Ed Langhammer was quoted in The Eastsider LA discussing if business owners can require employees to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

A Return to the Office for Workers May Be Coming as Vaccinations Increase

February 09, 2021

David Barron spoke with CNBC about how most U.S. organizations said that they will encourage, rather than require, their employees to get vaccinated, according to research from the Society for Human Resource Management conducted in December.

Six Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Recognized by the South Florida Legal Guide

February 02, 2021

Six Cozen O'Connor attorneys have been honored by the South Florida Legal Guide for their work in South Florida over the last year.

Eleven Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named 2021 Illinois Super Lawyers

January 29, 2021

Super Lawyers has named eleven attorneys at Cozen O’Connor to its 2021 lists of top practitioners in Illinois.

Who Exactly Is an Independent Contractor, Anyway?

January 28, 2021

Aaron Holt joined Supply Chain Brain to explain the latest ruling by the U.S. Department of Labor on the definition of an “employee” versus an “independent contractor.”

What employees need to know about forthcoming pandemic guidelines

January 27, 2021

John Ho spoke with This morning with Gordon Deal to explain what employers and employees should know about new COVID-19 safety rules from the Biden administration.

Here's How Biden's Presidency May Already Have An Effect On Your Job

January 27, 2021

John Ho was quoted in the Huffington Post discussing President Biden's executive order that called for OSHA to review and update its COVID-19 workplace safety recommendations.

Leading Lawyers Network Recognizes 26 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers as Top Illinois Practitioners

January 26, 2021

The Leading Lawyers Network has named 24 Cozen O’Connor lawyers to its annual list of Illinois’ top practitioners and named two others as Emerging Lawyers in its 2021 survey results.

Lessons Learned from COVID-19 Lockdowns

January 22, 2021

Howard Schweiter and Michael Schmidt were quoted in SHRM about what employers have learned during the COVID-19 lockdowns.

3 Tips For Handling This Year's Minimum Wage Increases

January 22, 2021

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Law360 discussing how the new minimum wage laws can differ greatly across jurisdictions, so it's important to know which one applies where.

How Much Vaccine Information Should You Demand From Employees?

January 20, 2021

David Barron was quoted in Inc. discussing how employers can handle their employees receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

Firing Workers When Political Expression Goes Too Far

January 15, 2021

Arielle Eisenberg was quoted in SHRM discussing how employers should handle political discussions in the workplace.

California Employers Should Review Evolving Worker-Classification Rules

January 13, 2021

Walter Stella was quoted in SHRM discussing California businesses classifying workers as independent contractors rather than employees.

How Will Evolving Marijuana Laws Impact the Workplace in 2021?

January 13, 2021

Mariah Passarelli was quoted in SHRM discussing the impact the Biden administration could have on the workplace and marijuana laws.

Rioters who stormed US Capitol now face backlash at work

January 08, 2021

Aaron Holt spoke with U.S. News and World Report about the repercussions employees who attended the riots at the Capitol will face at work.

Here are the rights employers have to fire workers identified as Capitol Hill rioters

January 08, 2021

David Barron spoke with AmpGoo about the potential consequences employees face if they attended the Capitol Hill riot.

Trump administration finalizes independent contractor rule criticized by labor advocates

January 06, 2021

Aaron Holt was quoted in Yahoo! Finance discussing the U.S. Department of Labor's final rule to define whether workers are employees or independent contractors.

4 Things NY Law Firm Leaders Are Thinking About In 2021

January 04, 2021

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Law360 discussing the challenges employers face when employees return to the office.

‘No Evidence’ of Virus Litigation Wave as Businesses Seek Shield

January 04, 2021

John Ho was quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing the volume of lawsuits filed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic that allege workplace safety violations.

4 major California employment law changes for 2021

January 04, 2021

Walter Stella spoke with HR Dive about the recent California bills that have been passed into law for 2021 brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Labor Cases And Trends To Watch In 2021

January 03, 2021

Daniel Johns was quoted in Law360 discussing how the NLRB will have a symbolic impact on the labor movement in 2021.

Seasonal Hiring in Pandemic Raises Staffing Firms’ Risks

December 18, 2020

John Ho was quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing how staffing companies that hire holiday help for shipping, shopping, and health care have a big new concern this season — how to keep these temporary workers safe during a pandemic.

Biden administration faces obstacles to revising employment laws

December 15, 2020

David Barron was quoted in Business Insurance discussing the impact the Biden administration could have on the NLRB.

Lawdragon names six Cozen O’Connor Attorneys among the Top 500 Leading U.S. Corporate Employment Lawyers

December 14, 2020

Lawdragon has named six members of Cozen O’Connor’s Labor & Employment Department to its 2020 list of the Top 500 Leading U.S. Corporate Employment Lawyers.

Jeffrey Pasek Reelected to Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry Board

December 10, 2020

Jeffrey Pasek was reelected to a three-year term on the board of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry.

Can Your Employer Force You To Get Vaccinated?

December 10, 2020

Michael Schmidt discussed with Bay News 9 about if an employer can require their employees to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Senate stimulus negotiators try to reach deal on whether companies can be sued over virus outbreaks

December 08, 2020

David Barron was quoted in the Washington Post discussing one of the issues facing the bipartisan stimulus negotiations is the insistence by Senate Republicans that businesses and other entities have sweeping immunity from coronavirus-related lawsuits.

Employers start preparing for the coronavirus vaccine with a question: Can we require it?

December 02, 2020

David Barron spoke with The Washington Post about how employers can incentivize their employees to take the COVID-19 vaccine without requiring it.

Law in the Time of Corona

December 02, 2020

Thomas Giotto was interviewed in the Duquesne Lawyer Magazine about what it has been like working during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccine resisters could derail Island's COVID-19 recovery, experts say

November 29, 2020

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Newsday discussing how state and federal agencies haven't provided clear guidance on whether a business can require workers to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

How to Talk to Employees About Their Holiday Plans

November 27, 2020

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Inc. discussing if employers can ask their employees to change their holiday plans during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mailbag: Can I restrict workers' personal travel?

November 25, 2020

David Barron spoke with HR Drive about how the upcoming holiday season is about to collide with a pandemic and employers have some options when it comes to workers' personal travel.

Understand workplace COVID-19 contact tracing issues, methods

November 23, 2020

John Ho spoke with Search HR Software about how COVID-19 contact tracing for offices, businesses, restaurants, and other workplaces is a challenge for employers.

4 Tips For Crafting An Airtight Parental Leave Policy

November 20, 2020

Debra Friedman was quoted in Law360 discussing parental leave policies that satisfy the law and do right by workers.

What to know if your employer wants you to get vaccinated for COVID

November 16, 2020

David Barron spoke with CNN about the possibility of employers requiring employees to take the COVID-19 vaccine.

A COVID-19 Vaccine Looks Promising. Can You Require Employees to Take It?

November 12, 2020

Michael Schmidt spoke with Inc. about whether or not employers can require employees to take a COVID-19 vaccine.

Being Proactive Can Reduce COVID-19 Liability

November 10, 2020

Michael Schmidt was quoted in New Jersey Business discussing how companies can reduce their liability in the workplace with well-thought-out safety policies and informed employees.

Boosting employee productivity after an election roller coaster

November 09, 2020

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Employee Benefit News discussing boundaries managers need to set for employees to express themselves about the election and COVID-19.

3 Challenges For Holiday Hiring In 2020

November 06, 2020

David Barron was quoted in Law360 discussing what companies should consider with the hiring process during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cozen O’Connor Recognized as a “Best Law Firm” in 25 Practice Areas Nationwide, 115 Practice Areas Regionally

November 05, 2020

U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers recognized Cozen O’Connor as a “Best Law Firm” in 25 practice areas nationwide and 115 practice areas regionally.

Having a difficult time focusing at work amid election uncertainty? Here’s how your company can help.

November 04, 2020

Jeremy Glenn was quoted in the Chicago Tribune about how companies should provide extra leeway in schedules and promote company-sponsored wellness programs, like exercise and stress-reduction activities during the election.

How political activism outside the office can get you in trouble at work

October 30, 2020

Aaron Holt was quoted in Employee Benefit Adviser discussing the limits to what employees can do or say without risking their employment or violating company policy.

Member Monday: Anna Wermuth

October 26, 2020

Anna Wermuth was highlighted by the Women's Bar Association of Illinois in recognition of her contributions to her practice and community.

How To Make Election Day Go Smoothly: 4 Tips For Employers

October 26, 2020

Michael Schmidt spoke with Law360 about how business can make sure that Election Day goes off without a hitch in the office.

High-Stakes Contract Talks Spark Labor Actions In Pandemic

October 23, 2020

David Barron was quoted in Law360 discussing how safety concerns and demands for hazard pay are compounding the wage and benefits issues that typically drive conflicts at the bargaining table, while employers have been hesitant to make concessions amid a business environment as uncertain as any they've ever faced.

The new normal as people return to work during and after COVID-19

October 23, 2020

Jeremy Glenn joined Fox32 Chicago to discuss the complications and adjustments that need to be made as more people return to their jobs in wake of COVID-19.

Do you feel unsafe going to work because of COVID-19? Here are your options

October 20, 2020

John Ho spoke with Market Watch about how employees can file a confidential complaint and request an inspection of their workplace if they believe their employer isn’t abiding by OSHA standards or there’s a serious workplace hazard.

Who Do You Want Back In the Office? Someone With COVID-19 Antibodies or Someone Who Tested Negative for COVID-19?

October 16, 2020

David Barron did an interview with Law.com about the pros and cons of going back into the office and the issue of Immunity Discrimination.

OSHA’s COVID-19 Reporting Obligations Clarified

October 15, 2020

John Ho was quoted in HR Magazine about employers reporting about employees that have COVID-19 related hospitalizations.

Talking politics in a digital workplace: 7 ways to keep it civil

October 13, 2020

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Employee Benefit News discussing his recommended best practices for keeping political discussions in a virtual workplace productive and civil.

How Employers Can Keep Their Employees Protected from COVID in the Workplace?

October 13, 2020

Michael Schmidt joined This Morning with Gordon Deal to discuss companies welcoming employees back into the physical workplace during COVID-19.

Mailbag: Can we require that employees receive a COVID-19 vaccine?

October 12, 2020

David Barron discussed with HR Drive whether an employer can force employees to receive a vaccine for COVID-19.

Don’t follow the White House’s example when dealing with a coronavirus outbreak at work, experts say

October 08, 2020

John Ho spoke with CNBC about the coronavirus outbreak in the White House.

Facing dual challenges of work and home-schooling, more women are sacrificing their careers

October 05, 2020

Debra Friedman spoke with NBC News about women being forced to make the choice between caring for their children or prioritizing their own career during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Super Lawyers Recognizes 21 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys in New York

September 29, 2020

Super Lawyers has named 21 Cozen O’Connor attorneys to its 2020 New York Super Lawyers and Rising Stars list.

Experts Urge Workers To Discuss Holiday Travel Plans, Possible Mandatory Quarantines With Employers

September 24, 2020

John Ho spoke with CBS New York about whether employers can restrict employees from traveling during the holidays.

Four Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Recognized as 2020 Texas Super Lawyers

September 24, 2020

Cozen O’Connor attorneys David L. Barron, Stephen P. Pate, A. Martin Wickliff, Jr., and Joseph A. Ziemianski were named 2020 Texas Super Lawyers.

A. Martin Wickliff, Jr. Honored by Texas Lawyer for Lifetime Achievement

September 23, 2020

Cozen O’Connor is pleased to announce that A. Martin Wickliff, Jr., a member of the firm’s Labor & Employment group, has been recognized by Texas Lawyer as a recipient of their 2020 Lifetime Achieve Award.

Worried About COVID-19? Too Bad. Your Boss Can Still Require You to Return to The office

September 22, 2020

David Barron spoke with Law.com about how your company can require you to return to the office once the office space has been COVID-19 approved for occupancy.

Why HR needs to watch out for ‘immunity discrimination’

September 22, 2020

David Barron was quoted in Human Resource Executive discussing a new type of bias that involves recruiters who favor job candidates who have already contracted and survived COVID-19.

Cozen O’Connor Attorney Anna Wermuth Named One of Chicago’s “Notable Women in Law”

September 08, 2020

Anna Wermuth was recently named to the list of Chicago’s “Notable Women in Law” by Crain’s Chicago Business.

Safety as Organizations Bring Staff Back to the Office

September 08, 2020

John Ho joined the GovExec Daily podcast to discuss how employers can keep their staff members safe as they come back to the workplace and to keep an organization's COVID-19 risk level low.

Cozen O’Connor Taps Nevada Litigator Karl O. Riley to Manage its Las Vegas Office

September 08, 2020

Riley joins the firm as a member within the firm’s Commercial Litigation department. Additionally, Riley will be a part of the Labor & Employment, Class Actions, and Appellate practice groups.

Safety is the new workplace ‘perk’ job seekers will be evaluating when applying to companies

August 31, 2020

Aaron Holt spoke with Business Insider about how safety is more top of mind for employees now.

Houston attorney warns employers to prepare for wave of COVID-19 wrongful death suits

August 26, 2020

David Barron spoke with the Southeast Texas Record about how he believes there will be a large number of cases filed in front line industries and workplaces where there have been substantial outbreaks of COVID-19.

200 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named Best Lawyers and Ones to Watch By The Best Lawyers In America

August 20, 2020

Best Lawyers selected 200 Cozen O’Connor lawyers from 23 of the firm’s nationwide offices for inclusion in the 2021 edition of The Best Lawyers in America© (Copyright 2020 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC).

Nine Cozen O’Connor Lawyers Named 2021 “Lawyers of the Year” by Best Lawyers in America

August 20, 2020

Cozen O’Connor is proud to announce that nine of the firm’s lawyers have been recognized as “Lawyers of the Year” in their respective practices by Best Lawyers in America.

GovExec Daily: Avoiding a Toxic Work Environment

August 17, 2020

David Barron joined the GovExec Daily podcast to discuss how employers and employees can stay away from hostile environments.

Coronavirus Complicates Workplace Drug-Testing Programs

August 14, 2020

David Barron was quoted in SHRM discussing how employers are also facing issues when handling drug-testing logistics during the pandemic.

Top Employer Questions About Weed and the Workplace

August 13, 2020

David Barron spoke with SHRM about how now that marijuana is legal in many states, can employers still ban it from the workplace?

School reopenings may create a costly dilemma for small businesses

August 11, 2020

David Hackett was quoted in the Philadelphia Inquirer discussing how fall's school schedule could affect businesses.

Election stress rising at home, and at the office

August 07, 2020

Aaron Holt spoke joined NewsRadio 740 KTRH to discuss sharing political beliefs at work.

How Do You Require Customers to Wear Masks Without Endangering Employees?

August 04, 2020

Michele Miller and Bethany Vasquez spoke with SHRM about how businesses that ask customers to wear face masks walk a fine line between complying with mask mandates and putting employees at risk if customers refuse and respond violently.

Revised CDC isolation timeline may prompt workplace policy changes

July 29, 2020

Debra Steiner Friedman discussed with HR Dive about the CDC's guidance for those not requiring hospitalization may be useful to employers in determining whether employees who have COVID-19 may return to work.

As businesses reopen, workers face a new challenge: getting in the door

July 24, 2020

Michael Schmidt was quoted in Newsday discussing COVID-19 screening for returning to work.

Some employers have illegally fired workers who refuse to sign COVID liability waivers

July 23, 2020

David Barron was quoted in Yahoo! Finance discussing employers requiring employees to surrender their right to sue over COVID-19.

Workers turn into amateur sleuths to track virus cases

July 19, 2020

Aaron Holt was quoted in The Washington Post discussing employers providing a safe work environment during the COVID-19 pandemic.

School Closings Shaping Up As Next Headache For Employers

July 17, 2020

David Barron was quoted in Law360 discussing the possible impact of the upcoming school year on employers.

Parents Raise Concerns About Philadelphia School District’s Reopening Plan

July 15, 2020

David Barron spoke with CBS Philly about the challenges families face with schools reopening.

Supreme Court Expands Religious-School Exemption from Civil Rights Laws

July 08, 2020

David Barron spoke with SHRM about the ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court that two elementary school teachers at religious schools could not pursue their claims of age and disability discrimination.

The Legal Implications of COVID-19 in the Workplace

July 08, 2020

David Barron spoke with Supply Chain Brain about the legal issues for employers that might arise from employees contracting COVID-19 in the workplace.

Thomas Giotto, Anna Wermuth Elected Fellows of The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers

July 07, 2020

Cozen O’Connor labor and employment attorneys Thomas Giotto and Anna Wermuth have been elected Fellows in The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers.

How Can Employers and Businesses Protect Their Workers?

July 06, 2020

David Barron discussed with NBC Bay Area about the challenges many businesses and employers are facing as they try to reopen while also protecting the health of their workers.

Want Workers To Sign COVID-19 Waivers? Don't Go There.

July 01, 2020

David Barron spoke with Law360 about whether employers should have employees sign COVID-19 liability waivers.

What Workers Need to Know About Protests—On and Off the Job

June 26, 2020

Aaron Holt was quoted in the Wall Street Journal discussing employers addressing political messages in the workplace.

Civil rights win for LGBTQ employees: Implications for employers

June 16, 2020

David Barron spoke with Benefits Pro about the Supreme Court's ruling that the protections imposed by the 1964 Civil Rights Act extended to gender identity and sexual orientation.

Can you get fired for protesting? Or spouting off on social media?

June 15, 2020

Aaron Holt was quoted in the Chicago Tribune discussing anti-discrimination protections and incendiary conduct in the workplace.

How companies can step up to make workplaces diverse, inclusive

June 14, 2020

Michael Schmidt was quoted in the New York Post discussing an architecture firm that removed any unconscious bias from recruiters for their summer intern hiring process.

Super Lawyers Names Seven Florida Cozen O’Connor Attorneys to its 2020 List

June 11, 2020

Super Lawyers has named seven Cozen O'Connor attorneys to its 2020 Florida Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists.

Can You Lose Your Job For Participating In Protests?

June 05, 2020

Aaron Holt was quoted in Yahoo! Finance discussing how the First Amendment depends on when and how you protest if it protects you from your employer.

Fifty-Eight Cozen O'Connor Attorneys Named Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

June 05, 2020

Super Lawyers has selected 58 Cozen O'Connor attorneys to the 2020 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists.

Employers Could Mandate Heath Checks As Businesses Open, Attorney Says

May 27, 2020

Jeremy Glenn spoke with CBS 2 Chicago about the legal issues and questions surrounding health checks that employers may start mandating for workers.

Businesses are reopening. If you’re older or sick, what happens to your job?

May 22, 2020

Walter Stella was quoted in The Olympian discussing about the workplace reopening with questions that linger about how protections will shield workers who are older or have medical conditions in the time of the coronavirus.

Cozen O’Connor Grows California Labor and Employment Practice with the Addition of Litigator Bethany A. Vasquez to its San Francisco Office

May 21, 2020

Bethany previously served as employment counsel at San Francisco-based ride-sharing company Lyft Inc., joins as a member, and will work out of its San Francisco office.

NYC Proposed Rules Would Allow More Pre-Employment Cannabis Testing

May 20, 2020

George Voegele was quoted in Cannabis Business Times discussing a proposed changed to New York City's ban on pre-employment cannabis testing.

If your unemployment claim was denied, here are your options

May 19, 2020

David Barron was quoted in Fortune discussing what people should do if their unemployment claim is denied.

The Hunt for a Leaker at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office

May 15, 2020

Aaron Holt was quoted in Texas Monthly discussing a public employee in Texas who was fired for sharing an internal email with the public.

Mailbag: Should our company set up on-site testing for COVID-19?

May 15, 2020

Debra Friedman was quoted in HR Dive about what should be considered if an employer offers onsite COVID-19 testing.

63 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 16 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2020 Guide

May 14, 2020

Chambers USA, the leading annual guide to the top lawyers and law firms in the United States, has ranked 63 Cozen O’Connor lawyers as leaders in their respective fields in the guide’s 2020 edition.

Wake Up With WURD

May 12, 2020

Debra Friedman appeared on WURD to talk about practical and legal issues surrounding health checks in the workplace during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Back to Work with Ed Langhammer

May 12, 2020

Ed Langhammer appeared on KGO 810AM discussing Governor Gavin Newsom's plan to return Californians to work.

Vermont gov. orders in-state employees to take health, safety training ahead of reopening

May 12, 2020

Cozen O'Connor Labor & Employment attorneys were mentioned in HR Dive discussing re-opening guidelines from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Michael Schmidt Recognized by JD Supra

May 11, 2020

Michael Schmidt was named to the 2020 JD Supra Readers’ Choice Awards, which acknowledges the top authors and firms for their thought leadership in key topics the previous year.

Self-employed started applying for unemployment benefits Monday, but there’s a catch

May 11, 2020

Jeremy Glenn was quoted in the Chicago Tribune discussing how it is complicated for states to set up systems for awarding assistance to the self-employed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Employee rights during the coronavirus

May 08, 2020

David Barron was quoted in the Defender Network discussing the rights employees have if they refuse to return to work as businesses begin to reopen.

Worker sues after being fired for refusing to violate shelter-in-place order

May 08, 2020

David Barron was quoted in HR Dive discussing the risks employers have in reopening business from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Iowa Law Alum Talks Labor and Employment Law in the Wake of COVID-19

May 07, 2020

Jeremy Glenn discussed with the University of Iowa Law School how labor and employment law is impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Getting to Work in a Pandemic: The Next Challenge

May 07, 2020

Susan Eisenberg was quoted in SHRM discussing the challenges employers face when returning to business during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Returning To Work: Employment Attorneys Talk Safety In The Office

May 05, 2020

Jeremy Glenn spoke with CBS 2 Chicago about the ever changing job market during the COVID-19 pandemic.

How to Handle More Work-from-Home Requests

May 05, 2020

Susan Eisenberg was quoted in SHRM discussing the challenges employers face with employees working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

5 compliance tips for reopening the workplace

May 04, 2020

David Barron spoke with HR Dive about how the recall of employees could present a series of legal pitfalls for the unprepared.

Are Employers Liable if Workers get Sick with COVID-19? As Businesses Prepare to Reopen, Worker Safety is a Priority

May 01, 2020

Jeremy Glenn was quoted in the Chicago Tribune discussing the workers' compensation program, which allows employees to collect benefits for workplace injuries or illnesses without proving their employer was at fault.

Can we require a sick employee to pass a COVID-19 test before returning to work?

April 28, 2020

Aaron Holt discussed with HR Dive about employers requiring proof of a negative COVID-19 test before permitting them to return to work.

Risk Management Best Practices For Your COVID-19 Return To Work Plans

April 28, 2020

Susan Eisenberg and Jennifer Taylor Williams appeared on the Prevention Podcast to discuss the risks involved in returning to work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

EEOC Slows Some Processes During Pandemic

April 27, 2020

David Barron was quoted in SHRM discussing if an employee contacts the EEOC for a right-to-sue letter during the COVID-19 pandemic.

How to Protect Yourself if You're Forced to Return to Work

April 24, 2020

Nandini Sane was quoted in Life Hacker discussing what employees should do if they do not feel safe returning to work when stay at home orders are lifted.

‘Work Sharing’ Offers Lifeline to Companies Eyeing Virus Rebound

April 23, 2020

George Voegele was quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing employer concerns with "work sharing" that allows employees to tap into jobless benefits when their hours are reduced.

Furlough vs. layoff? As more workers lose their jobs, here’s what to know about your rights and benefits

April 22, 2020

David Barron spoke with Fortune about the rights that furloughed employees have.

As Unemployment Claims Grow, Here Are Answers To Some Of Your Biggest Questions

April 21, 2020

Jeremy Glenn discussed with CBS 2 Chicago some of the biggest questions regarding unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic.

How to Safeguard the Privacy of Workers with COVID-19

April 20, 2020

David Barron was quoted in SHRM discussing what employers should do when an employee test positive for COVID-19.

The Reopening Challenge: 5 Tips for Getting Back to Business

April 17, 2020

David Barron was quoted in Inc. discussing the challenges that employers will face when they reopen their business during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Employers need to have a game plan now for returning to work after coronavirus

April 15, 2020

David Barron spoke with Employee Benefit Adviser about employers preparing to reopen nonessential businesses.

What to know about applying for gig work during the pandemic

April 15, 2020

Jeremy Glenn was quoted in Ozarks First discussing if taking a gig job disqualifies someone from applying for unemployment insurance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts

April 15, 2020

Peter Ennis was featured in the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council “Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts" Coronavirus edition newsletter.

Workers now deemed ‘essential’ want more: How the coronavirus crisis might bring permanent labor gains on unionizing, sick leave and other issues

April 14, 2020

Jeremy Glenn was quoted in The Olympian discussing companies that plan to keep expanded paid sick leave around once the coronavirus pandemic ends.

What businesses must disclose when a worker is diagnosed with COVID-19

April 13, 2020

Peter Ennis discussed with Newsday what actions employers should take when an employee tests positive for coronavirus.

What Does a Furlough Mean for Your Employment Rights During the Coronavirus Crisis?

April 10, 2020

David Barron was quoted in Getaka discussing the difference between being furloughed and being laid off.

Can you be sent home without pay for having a fever?

April 08, 2020

David Barron spoke with CNBC about employers checking the temperature of employees.

Forgivable Loan Apps Start Today And Will Be Big For Startups Facing COVID-19 Disruptions

April 03, 2020

David Barron was quoted in Crunchbase discussing the COVID-19 stimulus bill for small businesses in the United States.

What does it mean to be furloughed?

April 01, 2020

Michael Schmidt talked with CNN about why a company may do a furlough and what furlough workers should need to know.

Companies Slammed by Coronavirus Look to Cut Contributions to their Employees' 401(k)s

April 01, 2020

Jay Dorsch was quoted in USA Today discussing the impact of employee benefits with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stimulus Package Details Emerge

March 31, 2020

Jeremy Glenn was quoted in the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin discussing the recently passed CARES Act and what it means to both employers and employees.

Coronavirus Complicates OSHA Enforcement

March 31, 2020

John Ho was quoted in EHS Today discussing OSHA regulations being enforced during COVID-19.

Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named to 2020 San Diego Super Lawyers List

March 30, 2020

Super Lawyers has named two attorneys at Cozen O’Connor to its 2020 list of top practitioners in San Diego.

Here’s What Individuals, Workers and Businesses Need to Know About the Coronavirus Stimulus Package

March 27, 2020

Debra Friedman was quoted in Philadelphia Magazine discussing what the coronavirus stimulus package entails.

An Employer's Cheat Sheet For The 854-Page Virus Relief Bill

March 27, 2020

Jeremy Glenn was quoted in Law360 discussing the recently passed Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act.

$2.2T federal coronavirus stimulus package could be lifeline for many Chicago-area businesses

March 27, 2020

Jeremy Glenn appeared on ABC7 Chicago discussing the coronavirus stimulus package.

National Town Hall: What the $2 Trillion Stimulus Means for Your Business

March 27, 2020

David Barron joined a town hall discussion about the recent stimulus package that was passed by the Senate.

Can you be fired for working from home?

March 26, 2020

David Barron spoke with CNBC about the new federal legislation that was signed into law that included changes to the paid sick leave requirements included in the Family and Medical Leave Act.

$2 Trillion Stimulus Package on the Way: Here's What's in It for Business Owners

March 25, 2020

David Barron spoke with Inc. about how the COVID-19 related stimulus package will impact employee benefits.

Here's who qualifies for coronavirus paid sick leave under new federal law

March 24, 2020

David Barron was quoted in The Times and Democrat discussing the federal government's emergency coronavirus relief law.

How the government is supporting small businesses during the coronavirus pandemic

March 24, 2020

Jeremy Glenn appeared on FOX32 Good Day Chicago to discuss actions the government is taking to address service industry furloughs and layoffs during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Employment Lawyer On Workers' Rights In A Global Pandemic

March 23, 2020

Mariah Passarelli was interviewed on WBUR to discuss what legal rights employees have during COVID-19 pandemic.

Lessons for Response Plans

March 21, 2020

John Ho was quoted in CU Today discussing companies creating a response plan during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What to do if you are laid off from work due to COVID-19

March 18, 2020

David Barron spoke with Yahoo! Finance about how COVID-19 could be an exception to the rule involving the WARN Act.

Congress Is Poised to Come Up With Coronavirus Aid for Small Business. Here's What to Expect

March 17, 2020

Aaron Holt was quoted in Inc. discussing the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

Creating a Business Response Plan to COVID-19

March 12, 2020

John Ho was quoted in New Jersey Business discussing the best practices to use in creating a business response plan during a pandemic.

What Employers can do now that the Coronavirus is in Houston

March 05, 2020

Aaron Holt was interviewed by Houston Public Media to discuss what employers in Houston should do moving forward with the rise of the coronavirus.

As Coronavirus Panic Increases, So Does Racism Toward Asian People

March 03, 2020

David Barron discussed with Best Life about how employers should take extra care to avoid workplace discrimination as coronavirus fears increase.

How to Protect Yourself from Wage Theft

March 02, 2020

Aaron Holt was quoted in Life Hacker discussing what wage theft looks like.

The Coronavirus Outbreak is Exactly Why Companies Need Pandemic Policies

March 02, 2020

John Ho was quoted in Money discussing the response plans businesses should have in place during a pandemic.

Coronavirus outbreak: How businesses should be preparing

February 28, 2020

Debra Friedman was quoted in the Philadelphia Business Journal discussing how businesses should handle a potential coronavirus outbreak.

How IBM, Goldman Sachs, PwC and others are responding to the coronavirus threat to the global workplace

February 28, 2020

David Barron was quoted in The Washington Post discussing what he sees how businesses are handling coronavirus with their employees.

Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Eisenberg, Ferrer, Giotto and Tilson Recognized in 2020 Chambers Global Rankings

February 17, 2020

Chambers Global has recognized four Cozen O’ Connor attorneys, Susan Eisenberg (Miami – Labor & Employment), Geoffrey Ferrer (New York – Transportation & Trade), Thomas Giotto (Pittsburgh – Labor and Employment), and Joseph Tilson (Chicago – Labor & Employment), as worldwide leaders in their respective practices. All four attorneys are also ranked in the Chambers USA Guide.

Jeremy Glenn Named Client Choice 2020 Winner by Lexology, International Law Office

February 13, 2020

Jeremy Glenn has been named a 2020 Client Choice winner by Lexology and the International Law Office (ILO) – in the Illinois Employment and Benefits Law category.

The Pros and Cons of Unlimited PTO

February 10, 2020

Michael Schmidt discussed with HR Daily Advisor the downsides and benefits for employers that offer unlimited PTO.

Bobbi Britton Tucker Named to The Executive Leadership Academy

February 06, 2020

Bobbi Britton Tucker was named a member of The Executive Leadership Academy presented by the Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business.

Six Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named 2020 Illinois Super Lawyers

January 29, 2020

Super Lawyers has recognized six Cozen O'Connor attorneys to its 2020 lists of top practitioners in Illinois, including Joe Tilson who was again named one of the "Top 100" Illinois Super Lawyers.

Judge Halts California Labor Law from Applying to Independent Truckers

January 16, 2020

Michele Miller was quoted in KTLA 5 discussing a new California labor law that was blocked to more than 70,000 independent truckers.

Debra Friedman on Wharton Business Daily

January 14, 2020

Debra Friedman appeared on Wharton Business Daily Radio discussing joint employment.

Uber makes major changes to California rides as gig-work law takes effect

January 08, 2020

Michele Miller was quoted in the San Francisco Chronicle discussing the impact AB5 has on companies such as Uber.

Seven Cozen O'Connor Attorneys Recognized by the South Florida Legal Guide

December 17, 2019

Seven Cozen O'Connor attorney have been honored by the South Florida Legal Guide for their work in South Florida for the last year.

Labor & Employment Law Update: 2019 in Review and a Look Ahead to 2020

December 05, 2019

Jake Rubinstein, Bethany Salvatore, and Walter Stella presented a webinar about the substantial changes in labor and employment law at the federal, state, and even local levels for 2019.

Cozen O'Connor: Women in Leadership

December 04, 2019

Four of Cozen O'Connor's Minneapolis-based attorneys - Heather Marx, Barbara Muller, Tina Syring and Kristi Zentner - are highlighted in a Women in Law leadership feature in Attorney at Law Magazine.

Anna Wermuth and Joe Tilson lead ABA Student Trial Advocacy Competition in Chicago

December 03, 2019

Anna Wermuth and Joe Tilson led the ABA Student Trial Advocacy Competition Midwest Regionals in Chicago, Illinois.

Contacts

Thomas S. Giotto

Chair, Labor & Employment Department

tgiotto@cozen.com

(412) 620-6550

Michael C. Schmidt

Vice Chair, Labor & Employment Department

mschmidt@cozen.com

(212) 453-3937

Anna Wermuth

Vice Chair, Labor & Employment Department

awermuth@cozen.com

(312) 474-7876

People

Awards

Cozen O’Connor Recognized as a “Best Law Firm” in 31 Practice Areas Nationwide, 54 Practice Areas Regionally

November 07, 2024

In 2024, Best Lawyers received more than 100,000 client references and observed a 65% increase in client participation in their survey.

Two Texas Attorneys Named 2024 Super Lawyers

September 17, 2024

Stephen P. Pate and A. Martin Wickliff, Jr. were recognized as 2024 Texas Super Lawyers.

31 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys Named Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

June 11, 2024

Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only 5 percent of attorneys are named Super Lawyers; only 2.5 percent of attorneys are listed as Rising Stars.

Nearly 100 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 27 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2024 Guide

June 10, 2024

Chambers USA rankings are based on an “assessment of a firm’s work and opinions from external market sources, with an emphasis on client feedback.” In order to be ranked in the guide, lawyers and firms must demonstrate “sustained excellence.”

Lawdragon Names Six Cozen O’Connor Attorneys To Its Annual List Of Leading Corporate Employment Lawyers

September 27, 2023

Lawdragon has named six members of Cozen O’Connor’s Labor & Employment Department to its annual list of Leading U.S. Corporate Employment Lawyers.

Law360 Names Cozen O’Connor a Pennsylvania Powerhouse

August 23, 2023

Cozen O’Connor was previously named a Pennsylvania Powerhouse in 2022, 2018, and 2014.

Best Lawyers Honors More Than 200 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys to its Best Lawyers in America 2024 Edition

August 17, 2023

Best Lawyers selected 232 Cozen O’Connor lawyers from 24 of the firm’s U.S. offices for inclusion in the 2024 edition of The Best Lawyers in America.

Five Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named to 2023 Washington Super Lawyers List

July 31, 2023

The Seattle attorneys who have been recognized by their peers in include firm members Jodi McDougall, Terri Sutton, and William Walsh. Peter Berg and Sarah Pozzi were recognized as 2023 Washington Rising Stars.

Business Today Names 32 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys to Its Top 10 Lists

July 28, 2023

These lists recognize lawyers “mastering,” “leading,” “revolutionizing,” and “dominating” their fields in their respective states and nationwide.

Three Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named to 2023 Super Lawyers

July 17, 2023

Thomas G. Wallrich was recognized as a Super Lawyer, and Cassandra Jacobsen and Curt N. Trisko were named Rising Stars.

Super Lawyers Names 12 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys to its 2023 Florida List

June 30, 2023

Selection to Super Lawyers is based on peer nominations and evaluations, combined with independent research. Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only 5% of attorneys are named Super Lawyers; only 2.5% of attorneys are listed as Rising Stars.

Daniel Johns Elected Fellow of The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers

June 30, 2023

Daniel Johns, a member of Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, has been elected as a fellow of The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers.

Super Lawyers Names Two Cozen O’Connor Attorneys to 2023 Northern California List

June 30, 2023

Walter Stella (Employment & Labor) was recognized as a Super Lawyer, and Di Addy Tang (Employment & Labor) was named a Rising Star.

Eighty-eight Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 23 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2023 Guide

June 05, 2023

Of the 88 lawyers ranked, 17 lawyers have been recognized nationally, and eighteen were recognized in Band 1. Eight of the firm's practice areas have been recognized nationally, and nine were ranked Band 1.

Cozen O’Connor Attorney Matt DiCianni Honored with Rising Stars Award from The National Immigrant Justice Center

May 04, 2023

Matt DiCianni, a labor and employment associate at Cozen O’Connor, has been honored with a Rising Stars Award from the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC).

Three Cozen O’Connor Attorney’s Named 2023 Texas Rising Stars

March 22, 2023

Super Lawyers has named William Craven, Aaron Holt, and Nandini Sane to its 2023 list of Rising Stars in Texas.

Janice Sued Agresti Named to Labor Power Players

March 14, 2023

Janice Sued Agresti, an associate in Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, has been named a 2023 Labor Power Player by Politics NY.

Six Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Recognized in 2023 Chambers Global Rankings

February 22, 2023

Chambers Global has recognized six Cozen O’Connor attorneys: Susan Eisenberg (Miami – Labor & Employment), Geoffrey Ferrer (New York – Transportation & Trade), Shane Hardy (Toronto – Intellectual Property), Michael Osborne (Toronto – Antitrust & Competition), Joseph Tilson (Chicago – Labor & Employment), and Steven Weisz (Toronto – Bankruptcy & Restructuring) as worldwide leaders in their respective practices.

Cozen O’Connor Recognized as a “Best Law Firm” in 30 Practice Areas Nationwide, 115 Practice Areas Regionally

November 30, 2022

U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers recognized Cozen O’Connor as a “Best Law Firm” in 30 practice areas nationwide and 115 practice areas regionally.

Cozen O’Connor’s Michael Schmidt Honored with Innovation Award from New York Law Journal

October 11, 2022

The New York Law Journal has honored Michael Schmidt, vice chair of the Cozen O’Connor national Labor & Employment Department and New York office managing partner, with a 2022 “Professional Excellence Innovation Award” for the creative use of technology in his practice.

21 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Recognized as New York Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

October 03, 2022

Super Lawyers has named 21 Cozen O'Connor attorneys to its 2022 New York Metro Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists.

City and State Pennsylvania Names Debra Friedman to Their 2022 Pennsylvania Labor Power 100 List

September 12, 2022

Debra Steiner Friedman, a member of Cozen O'Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, was named to the 2022 Pennsylvania Labor Power 100.

Cozen O’Connor Attorney Anna Wermuth Named one of Crain’s 2022 “Notable Women in Law”

September 08, 2022

Anna Wermuth, vice-chair of Cozen O’Connor’s national Labor & Employment Department, has been named to the 2022 list of Chicago’s “Notable Women in Law” by Crain’s Chicago Business.

Chambers Ranks 86 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 22 Practice Areas in Chambers USA 2022 Guide

June 02, 2022

Chambers USA, the leading annual guide to the top lawyers and law firms in the United States, has ranked 86 Cozen O’Connor lawyers as leaders in their respective fields in the guide’s 2022 edition.

49 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys Named Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

June 01, 2022

Super Lawyers has selected 49 Cozen O'Connor attorneys to the 2022 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists.

Three Cozen O’Connor Attorney’s Named 2022 Texas Rising Stars

April 26, 2022

Super Lawyers has named William Craven (Insurance Coverage), Aaron Holt (Labor & Employment), and Nandini Sane (Labor & Employment) to its 2022 list of Rising Stars in Texas.

Leading Lawyers Network Recognizes 23 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers as Top Illinois Practitioners

March 02, 2022

The Leading Lawyers Network has named 22 Cozen O’Connor lawyers to its annual list of Illinois’ top practitioners and named one other as an Emerging Lawyer in its 2022 survey results.

Four Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Recognized in 2022 Chambers Global Rankings

February 17, 2022

Chambers Global has recognized four Cozen O’Connor attorneys: Susan Eisenberg (Miami – Labor & Employment), Geoffrey Ferrer (New York – Transportation & Trade), Shane Hardy (Toronto – Intellectual Property), and Joseph Tilson (Chicago – Labor & Employment), as worldwide leaders in their respective practices.

Cozen O’Connor Recognized as a “Best Law Firm” in 29 Practice Areas Nationwide, 121 Practice Areas Regionally

November 04, 2021

U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers recognized Cozen O’Connor as a “Best Law Firm” in 29 practice areas nationwide and 121 practice areas regionally.

More Than 205 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named Best Lawyers and Ones to Watch By The Best Lawyers In America

August 19, 2021

Best Lawyers selected 210 Cozen O’Connor lawyers from 23 of the firm’s nationwide offices for inclusion in the 2022 edition of The Best Lawyers in America.

Super Lawyers Names Five Cozen O’Connor Attorneys to its 2021 Florida List

June 24, 2021

Super Lawyers has named five Cozen O’Connor attorneys to its 2021 Florida Super Lawyers list.

47 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys Named Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

May 28, 2021

Super Lawyers has selected 47 Cozen O'Connor attorneys to the 2021 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists.

82 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 19 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2021 Guide

May 26, 2021

Chambers USA, the leading annual guide to the top lawyers and law firms in the United States, has ranked 82 Cozen O’Connor lawyers as leaders in their respective fields in the guide’s 2021 edition; of those, 15 lawyers have been recognized nationally.

JD Supra Selects Four Cozen O’Connor Attorneys as Top Authors

April 05, 2021

Cozen O’Connor is pleased to announce that Bernard Nash and Lori Kalani, co-chairs of the firm’s State Attorneys General practice, Michael Schmidt, vice chair of the firm’s Labor & Employment Department, and Rachel Welford, an attorney in the firm’s Transportation & Trade Group have been selected as top authors for JD Supra’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards for their thought leadership on key topics during 2020.

Susan Eisenberg and Jennifer Taylor Selected as Honorees for the DBR’s Florida Legal Awards

April 01, 2021

Cozen O’Connor is pleased to announce that Susan Eisenberg and Jennifer Taylor, members of the firm’s Labor & Employment Department, have been selected as honorees for the Daily Business Review’s Florida Legal Awards.

Six Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Recognized by the South Florida Legal Guide

February 02, 2021

Six Cozen O'Connor attorneys have been honored by the South Florida Legal Guide for their work in South Florida over the last year.

Eleven Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named 2021 Illinois Super Lawyers

January 29, 2021

Super Lawyers has named eleven attorneys at Cozen O’Connor to its 2021 lists of top practitioners in Illinois.

Leading Lawyers Network Recognizes 26 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers as Top Illinois Practitioners

January 26, 2021

The Leading Lawyers Network has named 24 Cozen O’Connor lawyers to its annual list of Illinois’ top practitioners and named two others as Emerging Lawyers in its 2021 survey results.

Cozen O’Connor Recognized as a “Best Law Firm” in 25 Practice Areas Nationwide, 115 Practice Areas Regionally

November 05, 2020

U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers recognized Cozen O’Connor as a “Best Law Firm” in 25 practice areas nationwide and 115 practice areas regionally.

A. Martin Wickliff, Jr. Honored by Texas Lawyer for Lifetime Achievement

September 23, 2020

Cozen O’Connor is pleased to announce that A. Martin Wickliff, Jr., a member of the firm’s Labor & Employment group, has been recognized by Texas Lawyer as a recipient of their 2020 Lifetime Achieve Award.

200 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named Best Lawyers and Ones to Watch By The Best Lawyers In America

August 20, 2020

Best Lawyers selected 200 Cozen O’Connor lawyers from 23 of the firm’s nationwide offices for inclusion in the 2021 edition of The Best Lawyers in America© (Copyright 2020 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC).

Nine Cozen O’Connor Lawyers Named 2021 “Lawyers of the Year” by Best Lawyers in America

August 20, 2020

Cozen O’Connor is proud to announce that nine of the firm’s lawyers have been recognized as “Lawyers of the Year” in their respective practices by Best Lawyers in America.

Super Lawyers Names Seven Florida Cozen O’Connor Attorneys to its 2020 List

June 11, 2020

Super Lawyers has named seven Cozen O'Connor attorneys to its 2020 Florida Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists.

Fifty-Eight Cozen O'Connor Attorneys Named Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

June 05, 2020

Super Lawyers has selected 58 Cozen O'Connor attorneys to the 2020 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists.

63 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 16 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2020 Guide

May 14, 2020

Chambers USA, the leading annual guide to the top lawyers and law firms in the United States, has ranked 63 Cozen O’Connor lawyers as leaders in their respective fields in the guide’s 2020 edition.

Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Eisenberg, Ferrer, Giotto and Tilson Recognized in 2020 Chambers Global Rankings

February 17, 2020

Chambers Global has recognized four Cozen O’ Connor attorneys, Susan Eisenberg (Miami – Labor & Employment), Geoffrey Ferrer (New York – Transportation & Trade), Thomas Giotto (Pittsburgh – Labor and Employment), and Joseph Tilson (Chicago – Labor & Employment), as worldwide leaders in their respective practices. All four attorneys are also ranked in the Chambers USA Guide.

Cozen O’Connor Recognized As a Best Law Firm in 24 Practice Areas Nationwide, 106 Practice Areas Regionally

November 05, 2019

The U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” rankings are based on a rigorous evaluation process that includes the collection of client and lawyer evaluations and peer review from leading attorneys in their field.

Bruce Ficken, Larry Laubach, and Elizabeth Malloy Named Among “Best of the Bar” by the Philadelphia Business Journal

October 25, 2019

Bruce Ficken, chair of Cozen O’Connor’s Construction law Group, Larry Laubach, chair of the firm’s Corporate Law Practice Group, and Elizabeth Malloy, member of the Labor and Employment Group, were named to the Philadelphia Business Journal’s 2019 “Best of the Bar.”

17 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Recognized as New York Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

September 27, 2019

Super Lawyers has named 17 Cozen O'Connor attorneys to its 2019 New York Super Lawyers and Rising Stars list.

138 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named to the Best Lawyers in America

August 28, 2019

Best Lawyers selected 138 Cozen O’Connor lawyers from 21 of the firm’s national offices for inclusion in the 2020 edition of The Best Lawyers in America.

Six Cozen O’Connor Lawyers Named 2020 “Lawyers of the Year” By Best Lawyers in America

August 28, 2019

Cozen O’Connor is proud to announce that six of the firm’s lawyers have been recognized as “Lawyers of the Year” in their respective practices by Best Lawyers in America.

Three Cozen O'Connor Attorneys Recognized as 2019 Minnesota Super Lawyers

July 08, 2019

Silton, Syring, and Wallrich have previously been named Super Lawyers, this is their 15th, 10th and 17th year appearing on the list, respectively.

57 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 16 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2019 Guide

April 25, 2019

Chambers USA, the leading annual guide to the top lawyers and law firms in the USA, has ranked 57 Cozen O’Connor lawyers as leaders in their respective fields in the Guide’s 2019 edition.

125 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named to the Best Lawyers in America

August 22, 2018

One hundred twenty-five Cozen O’Connor lawyers from 20 of the firm’s national offices have been selected for inclusion in the 2018 edition of The Best Lawyers in America.

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A Quarter for Your Thoughts: New York Employment Law Q4 2024 Developments and Trends

Webinar 12/03/2024

Join Michael Schmidt, Janice Sued Agresti, and Jamie Ansorge as they host the latest installment in this quarterly webinar series.

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