Making the decision to hire the first worker for your business can be quite exciting. That decision also carries with it a new set of legal obligations and requirements that are part and parcel of being an employer. Presented by Joshua Randlett of Rudman Winchell Counselors at Law, this seminar will cover some of the basic employment law concepts that all small employers owners ought to be aware of. Topics that will be discussed include:

• The differences between employees and independent contractors, and when it is or is not appropriate to hire someone as an independent contractor;
• The basics of federal and state wage and hour issues, including minimum wage, overtime, and record keeping requirements;
• I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification and Compliance;
• Accommodations for individuals with disabilities; and
• Workplace harassment and discrimination considerations.

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Joshua Randlett is a member of the firm’s employment and labor law group. Josh focuses his practice on advising and representing businesses in employment and personnel-related matters. His work includes pro-active components meant to help companies avoid problems, such as providing personnel and HR advice, drafting and revising handbooks, and preparing contracts. A large part of Josh’s practice also includes employment litigation related to discrimination and retaliation claims, non-competition agreements, and wage disputes. Josh regularly practices in state and federal court, as well as before the Maine Human Rights Commission.

In addition to his employment-related work, Josh actively works with product liability, and contractual/business disputes and serves as Chair of Rudman Winchell’s litigation practice group. In his 10 years practicing law, Josh has worked with businesses ranging from local start-ups to Fortune 500 companies.