2014Jan
0

NYC LAW EXPANDED TO REQUIRE REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR PREGNANT EMPLOYEES

On October 2, 2013, Mayor Michael Bloomberg signed a bill amending the New York City Human Rights Law (“NYCHRL”) to require most New York City employers to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant employees.  The new law, which takes effect on January 30, 2014, prohibits employers from discriminating against employees on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth,…

2013Nov
0

IS IT TIME TO RE-ASSESS THE STATUS OF YOUR BUSINESS’ INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS?

Independent contractors (“I/C”) have become a growing resource for many companies.  There are certain benefits to hiring an I/C instead of a new employee.  As you may have experienced an I/C often provides a company with the opportunity to obtain services from a highly qualified individual at a much lower cost than an employee.  With…

2013Oct
0

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF REGISTERING A TRADEMARK OR SERVICE MARK?

Firstly, it should be understood that a trademark or service mark is a designation of ownership of a “brand,” using a symbol, words, device, or all three. The difference between a trademark and service mark depends on what it is used for –  trademarks are for physical goods, and service marks are for services.  A…

2013Aug
0

DO YOU ACTUALLY NEED A LAWYER?

Sometimes it’s easy to know if you need to find an attorney. If you’ve been charged with a crime, been served with a lawsuit, or need a divorce – a lawyer is exactly what you need. Lawyers, however, aren’t just for criminals or those in litigation. Qualified attorneys can also provide advice and knowledge to…

2013Mar
0

DOES YOUR COMPANY NEED AN EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK?

Are you a business owner?  Do you have employees?  Do you have an Employee Handbook?  If you answered yes to the first two questions, but don’t have an Employee Handbook you should read my latest blog post on whether your business needs a Handbook. There is no law requiring employers to have an employee handbook,…

2013Mar
0

TOP 10 EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK MISTAKES

1.  Not Having Your Handbook Reviewed by a Lawyer You’re smart. You know your business. You may even be a lawyer. But as the saying goes, “A doctor is his own worse patient,” so get objective eyes to take a look at your employee handbook. It is very easy for people to misunderstand or misinterpret…

2013Feb
0

CHECKLIST FOR YOUR START-UP BUSINESS

So, you have decided to start a new business.  The following is a general checklist of steps to take to set-up your business.  Depending on the particular type of business, additional steps may be required. 1.    Prepare a Written Business Plan.  Define the type of product and/or service you plan to provide.  Set forth the…

2013Jan
0

FIVE REASONS YOU NEED A WRITTEN CONTRACT

” A verbal contract isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on.”  — Sam Goldwyn Often clients tell us that they have reached a deal, shaken hands, and are ready to do business with a business associate.  While this may have been acceptable back when our grandfathers were in business, society has grown too large and…