Risk and Responsibility in Remote Employment: A Legal Perspective

Risk and Responsibility in Remote Employment: A Legal Perspective

This program explores the critical employment law risks and ethical issues facing attorneys and law firms as they manage staff, independent contractors, and gig workers in a remote or virtual environment. The shift to remote practice significantly amplifies legal and compliance complexity, particularly regarding worker classification across jurisdictions.

Attendees will learn how misclassification of remote workers can lead to substantial financial liabilities, including back wages, overtime violations, and severe penalties for failure to secure mandatory workers' compensation and disability insurance. The course provides practical strategies for managing remote freelance professionals, detailing the mandate for written contracts and payment protections under laws like New York's Freelance Isn't Free Act (FIFA).

Furthermore, the program addresses the severe ethical implications of non compliant practices, discussing how employment missteps — whether at the firm or in personal affairs — can lead to attorney discipline under rules prohibiting dishonest conduct (ABA Model Rule 8.4). This course is essential for attorneys in leadership roles or those engaging any form of remote worker, providing the knowledge necessary to foster compliant, fair, and respectful work arrangements while safeguarding their license and professional reputation.