BrownWinick

Litigation During COVID-19 – Is it time to settle or double down?

The coronavirus (COVID-19) is throwing many aspects of our lives into question. If you are currently involved in litigation, you may be wondering if you should be settling your case. Recently, here at BrownWinick, we have seen some interesting settlements take place. It is too early to tell if this will be a trend, but we have seen some companies... Read More

Employers May Apply for the Voluntary Shared Work Program

Employers may apply for the Voluntary Shared Work Program which permits employers to seek an alternative to layoffs — retaining their trained employees by reducing their hours and wages that can be partially offset with unemployment insurance benefits. Employees who remain employed, even part time, under this program, would not be required to... Read More

COVID-19 Immigration Q&A for Employers

What impact does “work-from-home” and “social distancing” have on my foreign labor force? Many non-immigrant visas (H-1B, L-1, TN, O, P, R, etc.) are tied to particular work-sites and activities performed at specific locations. Employers that are asking their employees to work from home may need to file new Labor Condition Applications (LCAs) or... Read More

Courthouse Contagion: How COVID-19 is Affecting Your Cases, Hearings, and Proceedings

Over the last two weeks, the Iowa Supreme Court has issued several Supervisory Orders affecting courthouse schedules and proceedings across the state in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. These Orders can be found on the Iowa Judicial Branch website. Every Monday morning (or as circumstances require), the Judicial Branch will be providing summaries... Read More

COVID-19: Resource Page

The impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) is constantly changing along with information and guidance from state and federal agencies. Brownwinick is closely monitoring for updates. Our priority is to ensure individuals and employers have accurate and up-to-date advice on how to navigate these uncertain times. A Message from our Managing Partner - Chris... Read More

"Families First Coronavirus Response Act” Becomes Law

Yesterday afternoon (March 18 at 3:32 p.m.), the Senate passed H.R. 6201 the “Families First Coronavirus Response Act” with a vote count of 90 to 8. The President signed the bill into law last night and the law will go into effect 15 days from signing. In summary, the law provides paid emergency leave for employees, free coronavirus testing,... Read More

Iowa Employer and Employee Unemployment Assistance Program Just Announced

Governor Reynolds just announced a plan to provide assistance for employers and employees affected by COVID-19-related layoffs. If an employee is laid off due to COVID-19 or stays home to self-isolate, care for family members, or because they themselves are ill due to COVID-19, those employees might be eligible to receive unemployment benefits if... Read More