Over the past few months, the term “DEI”—diversity, equity, and inclusion—has become a frequent topic in the media. In the employment context, DEI refers to policies and practices that support equal opportunity and prevent discrimination in line with established civil rights and labor laws. DEI practices include providing reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities, safeguarding against age-based discrimination for individuals …
Understanding the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and its Impact on your Business
As a business owner, you understand the rewards and challenges that come with running a successful enterprise. One of these challenges includes dealing with employee grievances, including claims of discrimination or harassment. When an employee files a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), it can have serious consequences for your business. Understanding what the EEOC is, how it …
All New Mexico Developmental Disability Waiver Providers Must Carefully Understand the Difference Between Employee and Contractor Classifications or Risk Devastating Penalties.
The Developmental Disabilities (“DD”) waiver program in New Mexico provides services to assist children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Developmental Disabilities Supports Division of the New Mexico Health Care Authority sets standards for delivery of DD waiver services and offers training for providers, including Direct Support Professionals (“DSPs”), who provide services directly to disabled individuals, often in …
Worker’s Compensation in New Mexico: What is it, Who Gets it, and Who Must Provide it to Their Workers
Introduction Worker’s Compensation is one of the most important protections that workers have within the scope of their employment. Although workers’ compensation is generally understood to help workers cover the costs of injuries sustained while participating in their occupation, the specifics of the law are less well known. In this article, we will be going over what worker’s compensation is, …
Business Law Southwest Lawyers to Join Panel Discussing AI & HR
Family Friendly NM’s mission is to support businesses in creating family friendly workplaces. This November, Family Friendly NM will be hosting a virtual workshop- “Unlocking AI in Business & HR”. The workshop is scheduled for November 28, 2023, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. This event promises to be an insightful exploration of how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming HR …
Understanding At-Will Employment in New Mexico
As a business owner or employee in New Mexico, it’s important to understand what at-will employment means and what rights and obligations come with it. At-will employment is a common type of employment relationship where an employer can terminate an employee at any time, for any reason, and without notice. However, there are some legal limitations on at-will employment in …
What Is A Whistleblower and How Can They Be Protected?
Whistleblowers are individuals who report illegal or unethical activities within companies or organizations. Whistleblowers are individuals who report illegal, immoral or unethical activities within an organization. Such activities may include fraud, corruption, and other serious misconducts. In recent times, whistleblowers have become more prevalent, specifically within the business world, as they have played a critical role in uncovering corporate fraud, …
A Guide to Contractor Agreements for Business Owners
If you are a business owner, chances are you’ve heard about contractor agreements. But what exactly is a contractor agreement, and why should you know about them? In this article, we’ll take a look at the basics of contractor agreements and how they can help your business. What is a Contractor Agreement?A contractor agreement is a legally binding document that …
BLSW Tops Expertise.com’s List of Litigators
A Ranking in Professionalism, A+ Ranking in Reputation Once again, Business Law Southwest has been recognized by Expertise.com for their outstanding New Mexico Litigation Team ! Expertise’s Selection Criteria: Availability-Consistently approachable and responsive, so customers never feel ignored. Qualifications-Building customer confidence with licensing, accreditations, and awards. Reputation-A history of delighted customers and outstanding service. Experience-Masters of their craft, based on …
What are the Differences Between Paid Time Off, Sick Days, and Vacation?
Different companies have different approaches to paid time off (PTO). Some companies have a blanket policy of PTO which provides employees with a set number of days off which they can use for any purpose. Other companies provide paid time off into sick days and vacation days. Offering simple PTO and allowing employees to determine how to use it is …
