Legal News

Q: Can I require that my employee get vaccinated? A: This question most frequently comes up in relationship to the flu vaccine but, with the national focus on measles, this question has also been asked more broadly......By: Davis Brown Law Firm

If you have applied for an immigration benefit lately (temporary visa, permanent residence), you know the indignities of the process - especially in recent times. Slower decisions, outlandish requests for evidence, and no realistic way to communicate...By: Davis Brown Law Firm

Waterloo has enacted Iowa’s first “Ban the Box” regulation and has also enacted rules as to how criminal records may be used even after the application process.   The “box” is a question on the application about prior criminal convictions.  Some...By: Davis Brown Law Firm

Q: We have a lot of shift work in a 24/7 industry, and we really struggle with absenteeism. Can I fine employees for failure to show up or to get their own replacement?...By: Davis Brown Law Firm

Q: We recently terminated an employee and are paying severance for several weeks; however, the employee has a garnishment. Does it come out of the severance payments?...By: Davis Brown Law Firm

When an employer experiences growth and is projected to employ 50 or more employees, an employer can and should enact policies and assess its practices for compliance with employment laws. Fifty employees is the triggering number for Family Medical...By: Davis Brown Law Firm

Q: I fired an employee last week and now they have shown back up and want a copy of their personnel file. Do I have to give it to them?...By: Davis Brown Law Firm

Q: When an employee wants to change their tax information, for example move from 2 to 1 exemption or single to married, can they make that change to their W4 filing on our employee self-service system? A: Typically, under the law, electronic changes...By: Davis Brown Law Firm

There are days when the workplace can feel a lot like a third-grade playground with kids running back and forth, bruised feelings, tearful meltdowns, and a real and apparent need for a nap and a snack. We also continually lament the lack of civility...By: Davis Brown Law Firm

Q: An hourly employee has hit 40 hours at noon on Friday, can I send them home to avoid overtime? A: In general, absent a contract or policy that says differently-yes you can send them home....By: Davis Brown Law Firm