OK at Work

Join Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman as they kick off 2026 by discussing newly enacted labor laws, upcoming legislative sessions, and emerging trends. This episode focuses on the 'TRAP' laws seen in states like California and New York, which target post-employment training reimbursement obligations. They explore alternatives for employers to invest in their employees within the evolving legal landscape and emphasize the importance of adapting to state-specific regulations.

00:00 Introduction and New Year Kickoff

00:45 Emerging Trends in Employment Laws

02:08 Understanding Training, Repayment, Agreement, Provisions (TRAP)

02:58 Implications for Employers Across States

04:05 Navigating Legal Changes and Protecting Investments

04:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this week's episode of OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss effective strategies for managing employees who are on leave, such as FMLA or sick leave. They cover important considerations for companies, including how to manage performance proactively, the importance of documentation, and navigating potential risks of retaliation claims. The episode emphasizes the significance of consistent management and following processes to mitigate risks and ensure smooth operations.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:19 Managing Employees on Leave: Key Considerations

02:10 Proactive Performance Management

03:16 Navigating Employee Leave Requests

04:13 Conclusion and Farewell

Join Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman as they discuss the critical topic of succession planning in this week's episode of OK at Work. Learn about the importance of standard operating procedures, timing, formalization, and seamless transitions to ensure business continuity when leaders or managers retire or move on. Discover how having a clear roadmap, well-timed exit strategies, and collaborative handovers can help your organization maintain stability and capitalize on new opportunities.

00:00 Introduction to Succession Planning
00:59 Importance of Standard Operating Procedures
02:03 Planning for Timing and Communication
03:24 Training and Transition Period
04:05 Ensuring Stability During Transitions
04:37 Adapting to New Leadership
05:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the recent federal reclassification of marijuana and what it means for employers. They explore how these changes impact business policies, particularly in states where marijuana is legal for medical or recreational use. The conversation explores the differences in handling marijuana compared to other substances like alcohol and prescription drugs, and addresses the complexities of navigating state and federal regulations.

00:00 Introduction to Federal Reclassification of Marijuana

00:45 Implications for Employers and Business Owners

01:25 Evolving Treatment of Cannabis in the Workplace

02:37 Health-Related Aspects and Future Developments

03:48 State Regulations and Multi-State Employer Challenges

04:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In the last OK at Work episode of 2025, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger, attorneys at Offit Kurman, discuss the upcoming legal challenges and trends for 2026. Focusing on the evolving impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI, they explore its implications across various legal areas, including privacy, employment law, and state regulations. They predict a significant focus on AI legislation at both state and federal levels and share insights on how business owners can navigate these emerging legal landscapes.

00:00 Introduction and Year-End Reflection

00:24 Planning for 2026: Legal Considerations

00:44 The Impact of AI on Business and Law

02:16 State vs. Federal Regulations on AI

04:02 Conclusion and Predictions for 2026

In this episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the concept of phantom equity and its role in incentive compensation. As year-end approaches, businesses evaluate bonuses and future incentives. Phantom equity, a form of compensation for executive-level employees, operates like actual equity without involving ownership or entanglements. It serves as a mechanism to align company and individual goals, especially during events like a business sale, by promising bonuses based on hypothetical ownership stakes. Ideal for fostering an ownership mindset without the complexities of real equity, phantom equity offers a flexible and strategic incentive option.

00:00 Introduction to Incentive Compensation

00:48 Understanding Phantom Equity

01:30 Benefits and Uses of Phantom Equity

02:25 Comparing Phantom Equity to Actual Equity

03:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the crucial steps employers need to take after concluding a workplace investigation. They explore practical and legal considerations when addressing findings of misconduct, retaliation, or policy violations, including remediation for affected employees and disciplinary actions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of acting on investigation results to manage risk and maintain a healthy work environment.

00:00 Introduction to Workplace Investigations

00:17 Types of Investigations and Common Issues

00:58 Addressing Findings and Immediate Actions

01:29 Disciplinary Actions and Considerations

02:17 Balancing Legal Risks and Business Operations

04:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the key considerations for employers during the holiday season. They emphasize that while holiday parties are a great time for employees to celebrate and have fun, they remain work events where workplace rules and behavioral standards still apply. They share practical tips on planning and executing these events to ensure a balanced, enjoyable, and professional environment. Tune in for valuable advice on managing holiday get-togethers while maintaining a positive and respectful workplace culture.

00:00 Introduction to Holiday Parties
01:02 Workplace Rules Still Apply
01:47 Planning and Executing the Event
02:39 Balancing Fun and Professionalism
03:14 Conclusion and Farewell

In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the importance of reviewing company policies and procedures as the year closes. With a focus on ensuring compliance and refreshing employee training, they emphasize the need for harassment and cybersecurity training, especially as flu season and holiday gatherings can lead to increased absenteeism and germ spread. Ensuring all employees are informed about current policies and best practices is crucial for a smooth transition into the new year.

00:00 Introduction and Year-End Reflections
00:31 Importance of Policy Review and Training
00:58 Health Precautions During Flu Season
01:18 Compliance and Best Practices
02:07 Gathering Safely During the Holidays
03:01 Proactive Policy Reminders
03:20 Conclusion

In this episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the importance of thoughtfully structured bonus plans for employees and executives. The discussion covers the goals behind bonus plans, such as motivation and retention, and emphasizes the importance of aligning these plans with organizational objectives for 2026. They highlight the need for clear and effective communication to avoid legal risks and ensure that employees are properly incentivized. As the end of the year approaches, they encourage employers to reassess and potentially update their compensation plans to support their strategic goals for the coming year.

00:00 Introduction to Bonus Plans

00:47 Key Considerations for Bonus Plans

01:00 Aligning Bonus Plans with Organizational Goals

01:43 Clarity and Communication in Bonus Plans

02:38 Legal Risks and Clear Communication

03:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts