Patrick Barrett Quoted in June 26, 2020 Edition of the Midlands Business Journal

Fraser Stryker attorney Patrick Barrett was quoted in the June 26, 2020 edition of the Midlands Business Journal. In an article entitled “Legal experts recommend mindful considerations as businesses look to reopen” by Gabby Christensen, Mr. Barrett discussed some of the legal cases that could be seen because of the coronavirus pandemic. “The types of coronavirus cases which are being filed are limited only by the imagination of plaintiff lawyers” said Barrett. “Employers may face wage and hour lawsuits for unpaid overtime while employees are working from home. Employers may also expect disability or other discrimination cases.”

Mr. Barrett also spoke about what employers should be aware of as they reopen, saying: “The EEOC [Equal Employment Opportunity Commission] and Department of Labor are encouraging employers to modify or extend existing leave policies to encourage employees to stay home when they are sick and not incentivize them to work when they are not feeling well. As employers resume operations, it is important that they monitor emerging developments and new and revised federal guidance to make certain that their operations are consistent with the latest medical information and CDC guidance.”

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Mr. Barrett’s practice focuses primarily on Labor and Employment Law, with experience in assisting both private and public sector clients with collective bargaining, EEO/affirmative action matters, Fair Labor Standards Act and Occupational Safety and Health matters. Mr. Barrett also speaks regularly to management groups and provides employer training on various employment related issues.