Lawsuits related to employment issues in the United States have reached a record high. Employment laws and regulations are both ever-changing and ever-increasing creating unintentional traps for the unwary employer. In the employment arena, judicial immunity does not exist. One of the best ways for a judicial employer to avoid litigation is to hire excellent employees. An employee who fits well into your organization … [Read more...] about When Only the Best Will Do (Part One)
Employment
Employee Handbooks: Neither Fish Nor Fowl
The legal status of court employees is both unique and confounding. A myriad of statutes require the counties to provide space and funding so that the courts may operate. The circuit and superior courtrooms are the showpiece of most county facilities. The healthcare and pension benefits provided to court employees are the benefits provided to other county employees. The court employees receive a paycheck and W-2 from … [Read more...] about Employee Handbooks: Neither Fish Nor Fowl
The Employee With Two Hats
The Court family has been proud to have representatives in active military service for our country through the wars and military operations that have unfolded in the Middle East. The newest Justice of the Supreme Court, Steven David, had a long and highly honored military career with exemplary service as the Chief Public Defender at Guantanamo Bay. Judge Marilyn Moores of Marion County is currently on active duty for … [Read more...] about The Employee With Two Hats
Performance Appraisals… To Do or Not To Do?
Experts on employee management are divided regarding whether employers should conduct annual performance appraisals of staff. Judging by the show of hands at the recent Judicial College seminar on office management, Indiana’s judiciary is also divided in its use of performance appraisals. The purpose of this article is to succinctly set forth the pros and cons so each court may make its own decision. A substantial … [Read more...] about Performance Appraisals… To Do or Not To Do?
Cell Phones, Smart Phones, FLSA and the Court Employer
A Look at One Potential Hidden Cost of Technology— Cell phones have changed our daily lives in many ways. No more concerns about not being able to get a message to family members when you will be late. No more exorbitant add-ons to hotel bills because you have to make a long distance call. No more wondering what the cost of a widget is if you have a smart phone. Cell phones have also impacted the work envir … [Read more...] about Cell Phones, Smart Phones, FLSA and the Court Employer