StokesLaw™ Briefs

A prompt investigation into an employee complaint about a colleague will build employee morale by reinforcing your organization's commitment to equal employment opportunity. Aviva Kamm explains that investigating and responding appropriately to the complaint can also provide the employer with a complete defense to any claims of discrimination.

Certain employee activities on social media and email are protected under the National Labor Relations Act. Stokes Lawrence Employment attorney Krista Nelson reviews those activities and what employers should do to stay compliant. (12:22)

A Washington Supreme Court decision fundamentally changed how agricultural businesses must think about the Farm Labor Contractor Act (FLCA) and the way in which farming and other agricultural operations are managed in Washington. The Stokes Lawrence Velikanje Moore & Shore Agriculture group explains what this means to Washington farmers.

On February 23, 2016, a three-judge panel of the Ninth Circuit ruled in a long-awaited decision that the Department of Labor can regulate the tip pooling policies of employers around the country. Aviva Kamm and Krista Nelson explain the ruling's impact on employers.

The Washington Supreme Court is again being asked to interpret the FLCA in Saucedo v. NW Management and Realty Services. In the Saucedo case, the Court will decide whether a farm management company constitutes a farm labor contractor under the FLCA. Sarah Wixson reviews how a company could be viewed as a farm labor contractor.

Nonproductive time, such as break time for piece-rate workers and travel time, is getting increased scrutiny from Washington employees, employers and courts. Aviva Kamm explains the guidelines for when employees should be paid and provides practical tips for employers.