The Consequences of Truth
May 27, 2009
Few states have instituted compulsory medical error admissions. One state that has is New Jersey, which, in 2004, enacted the Patient Safety Act (PSA). This landmark legislation changed the way medical errors are dealt with in New Jersey. This article discusses the changes.
Legal Issues Swell if Swine Flu Spreads
May 27, 2009
Just one week into the swine flu outbreak, health authorities in Baltimore detained 117 passengers on a flight from Cancun, Mexico. And Texas, Maryland and New York officials closed schools. Although the flu strain isn't an official pandemic yet, state and local officials are already flexing legal muscles ' many for the first time.
The Autism Cases
May 27, 2009
In last month's issue, we discussed the Vaccine Court's (Office of Special Masters of the U.S. Court of Federal Claims) trio of decisions that found no causative links between childhood vaccinations and the onset of autism and gastrointestinal problems in three children. The discussion continues herein.
FCPA Compliance Now Essential for All Companies That Do Business Internationally
May 27, 2009
U.S. Department of Justice ("DOJ") officials have stated that enforcing the FCPA has become one of the DOJ's top priorities. Since mid-December, companies have paid more than $1.3 billion to settle FCPA charges. Multiple executives have also recently pleaded guilty to FCPA violations and are facing years in prison and/or millions in financial penalties.
Adult Internships
May 27, 2009
Some people are seeking unpaid internships to obtain on-the-job training in a new industry. While employers may welcome this new trend, it is important to be aware that there are federal regulations governing whether an intern must be paid in accordance with the wage and hour laws that apply to employees of your company. This article briefly examines the applicable test, and discusses some practical tips that may enhance the likelihood that your company's program will pass regulatory muster.
Labor and Employment
May 27, 2009
Many observers expected the Obama Administration, with the support of Democratic majorities in both houses of Congress, to advocate new legislation and Executive Orders that favored unions and expanded the scope of employment discrimination laws. This article examines Executive Orders that have been signed and proposed legislation that has been introduced since President Obama's inauguration.
D&O Liability
May 27, 2009
Delaware courts have recently issued decisions that may impact the number and types of claims brought by shareholders of Delaware companies seeking to hold directors and officers personally liable under various claims, in particular in connection with the current economic crisis.
