Blogs

Employment Law

Why Employers Often Choose to Settle FLSA Claims — Even When They Have Defenses

When employers are sued under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the initial reaction is often to fight the claim on principle. Many employers believe they complied with the law, paid employees fairly, and did nothing wrong – and, in many cases, they may have valid legal defenses. Even so, employers frequently choose to resolve…

January 21, 2026

Employment Law

Does the FMLA Cover Employee Travel Time for Medical Appointments?

Yes, usually, is the short answer set out in a new DOL opinion letter. An employee is permitted to use leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA or Act) for work time spent in medical appointments either related to their serious medical condition or those of a qualifying family member. Such FMLA leave…

January 21, 2026

Employment Law

So You Received a DOL Wage & Hour Audit Notice – What’s Next?

Receiving a notice from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Wage and Hour Division can be unsettling for any employer. While some audits are routine, others can quickly expand into broader investigations and, in some cases, lead to private lawsuits under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). How you respond in the early stages of…

January 20, 2026

Employment Law

Six Employment Law Trends to Watch in 2026: Federal Enforcement and Virginia Updates

As we move into 2026, employers face a rapidly evolving legal landscape shaped by federal enforcement priorities and state-level initiatives. Below are six critical trends that HR professionals, business leaders, and risk compliance officers should monitor closely. 1. Federal Enforcement Realignment: Budget Cuts and Shifting Responsibilities The Department of Labor (DOL) enters 2026 with a…

December 15, 2025

Employment Law

Understanding the Family and Medical Leave Act: The DOL’s Latest Guidance and Practical Application

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a foundational federal law that helps employees balance work and family responsibilities. Enacted in 1993, the FMLA entitles eligible employees of covered employers to take up to 12 workweeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 12-month period for specified family and medical reasons. These include the birth…

November 24, 2025

Employment Law

NLRB Rules Every Non-Union Employer Needs to Know

Even if your business doesn’t have unionized employees, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) still has something to say about your policies, your severance agreements, and even your social media rules. In 2025, the NLRB continued its trend of expanding employee rights under the National Labor Relations Act. Non-union employers in Virginia are not exempt…

November 24, 2025

Employment Law

Culture, Compliance, and Cocktails: Managing Risk at Corporate Holiday Events

As the holiday season approaches, many companies look forward to hosting office parties as a way to celebrate achievements, boost morale, and reinforce a sense of community. These events can be helpful tools for strengthening corporate culture and enhancing employee identification with the organization. A well-executed holiday party can foster camaraderie, reinforce shared values, and…

November 21, 2025

Employment Law

Using Criminal Background Checks in Hiring? Here’s What You Need to Know

In today’s highly competitive and compliance-driven hiring landscape, criminal background checks have become a standard part of the recruitment process for U.S. employers. According to recent surveys, more than 90% of employers conduct some form of background screening, with criminal history checks being among the most common. Over the past five years, the use of…

October 31, 2025

Employment Law

Contractor or Employee? What Every Virginia Builder Needs to Know Now

General contractors and subcontractors often retain companies and individuals to perform part of their scope of work. This can be done, obviously, by hiring employees or by hiring independent contractors. The question of whether an “independent contractor” is in fact an independent contractor is a repeat arena for disputes and risk in the form of…

October 30, 2025

Employment Law

How Employers Can Legally Manage Social Media in the Workplace

In today’s increasingly digital workplace, social media and employee privacy have become critical considerations for many employers. While platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram can offer valuable insights into prospective and current employees, the line between business interests and employee personal privacy is not always easy to discern. Navigating this balance requires employers to understand…

October 29, 2025