Electronic communications—such as emails or texts—have become the primary form of communication among organizations and individuals. In the modern world, businesses large and small communicate internally and externally using electronic communications...
We are saddened to share the passing of the Honorable John E. Dewane, retired judge and close friend of many members of the Kotz Sangster team, on Thursday, October 14th. At 81 years old, John spent several years as a vital member of our firm in addition to his impactful career serving Berrien County as a Circuit Court judge.
Several members of the Southwest Michigan Kotz Sangster team had an excellent time supporting St. Joseph High School’s athletics department during their recent “Birdies Fore Bears” fundraising event, serving as the Platinum Sponsor of the event.
The U.S. Supreme Court issued a significant decision for employers on May 21, 2018. In Epic Systems Corp v. Lewis, the Court held employee arbitration agreements may lawfully prohibit group or class action arbitration claims brought by multiple employees. This holding is important because, as the Court noted, group or class actions can unfairly pressure employers to settle weak claims. Although Epic involves a Fair Labor Standards Act claim, the case will likely be extended to cover other types of employment claims.
In sum, many employers see potential benefits in pre-dispute employment arbitration agreements, such as jury avoidance, shorter claim limitation periods, expedited process and lower costs. Epic Systems has added another valuable protection for employers to consider – written waivers of group or class action claims.