Question of the Week

Q. In today’s difficult job market, employees with severe medial issues may feel pressure to refuse medical leave or return to work early after a medical crisis for fear of losing their jobs. As an employer, what is the obligation of my company under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)?

Q. I recently read that the economic recession has led to a surge in employee theft. As a business owner, what can I do to protect myself?

Q. My company is expanding to do business in Europe and Latin America. I have heard that I need to be aware of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). What is it and how can I protect myself?

Q. Do I need to have a Health Care Surrogate document? What is it and why is it important?

Q. What are some ways to minimize the chances of having an estate tax return audited?

Q. Our organization is storing more and more records electronically. We are planning to move to electronic storage of our Employment Eligibility Verification forms (Forms I-9). I heard the Department of Homeland Security finalized its rule on electronic storage of I-9s. What are the changes from the former Interim Rule on electronic storage?

Q. What are the current estate planning opportunities available this year under the current law?

Q. Early stage companies face a number of daunting problems and challenges. What are some of the actions young companies can take to avoid or mitigate some of these problems and challenges?

Q. How do I know if my company’s insurance limits are sufficient?

Q. Social networking is a powerful force in marketing and branding, and I want to begin to use it for my company. What are some of the pitfalls and potential problems that I should watch out for?

Q. I have an awesome professional candidate to fill a critical specialty position in our organization. She is a foreign national and says she needs an “H-1B” visa. I have heard that H-1Bs are subject to an annual quota. Are they still available?

Q. What is a “tip credit” and what effect does it have upon the minimum wage paid to “tipped employees” in Florida?

Q. I recently read an article indicating that buying a distressed business can bring great rewards. Are there any special legal considerations I should consider when purchasing a distressed business?

Q. Should Airlines Control their Security Checks?