Employment Lawyer Savannah | Georgia Employment Lawyer

Overview

HunterMaclean’s employment practice group is best known for its expertise in working with and for employers, that is, businesses, nonprofits, governmental entities, and their management teams. HunterMaclean’s employment practice group forges long-term relationships with clients of all sizes, working collaboratively to achieve clients’ business goals, improve employee relations, and avoid legal claims and liability.

We provide employer-centered advice and counsel on sensitive discipline and termination questions to senior management and human resource professionals, conduct employment audits and training to help clients stay current on ever-evolving legal requirements, and draft and review employment policies and handbooks. We also help clients respond to governmental inquiries, including I-9 audits, wage/hour investigations, and EEOC and DOL investigations. Additionally, we prepare employment contracts and confidentiality and restrictive covenant agreements to meet the unique and challenging requirements of Georgia law. When an employment problem becomes an administrative investigation, arbitration, or lawsuit, our attorneys vigorously represent the client before the appropriate administrative agency or arbitral forum or in the state and federal trial and appellate courts throughout Georgia, South Carolina, or elsewhere in the Southeast.

Our Georgia employment attorneys are very involved in the community and stay current with evolving human resources trends. In addition to serving in leadership positions in local and state-wide SHRM (Society of Human Resource Manager) chapters and local, nonprofit personnel committees, and state-wide Employer Committees sponsored by the Georgia Department of Labor, HunterMaclean’s employment attorneys are also frequent speakers at employment law and human resources seminars and continuing legal education programs. Our employment group has worked with other Georgia counsel and the Georgia legislature to change long-standing Georgia law governing the interpretation of restrictive covenant agreements in Georgia, bringing the state in line with the majority of other states and making Georgia’s business climate more attractive for companies located here and those looking to relocate to Georgia.

Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business recently noted that “This Savannah-based firm continues to excel in the local market. The three-partner employment team is experienced in providing advice and solutions on a range of matters, from EEOC charges and wage and hour investigations to compliance with affirmative action obligations and employment contracts.”

HunterMaclean’s employment practice has been described as a model firm with respect to quality and value representation. Our attorneys are widely-recognized experts in the employment field and are passionate about helping clients achieve their business goals and create good places to work.

HunterMaclean employment attorneys practice in all divisions of the United States District Court, Southern District of Georgia, including Augusta, Dublin, Waycross, Brunswick, Statesboro, and Savannah. The Firm has clients throughout the region, including the cities of Hinesville, Jesup, Valdosta, Darien, and St. Mary’s.

Industries:

Health care
Hospitality
Manufacturing
Retail
Restaurants
Physician practice groups
Dental practices
Professional service companies such as construction companies, engineering firms, law firms, staffing firms, and accounting firms
Nonprofits
Independent schools
Faith-based institutions

Audits and investigations:

EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) investigations
EEOC charges
Department of Labor (DOL) investigations
DOL audits
Wage-hour audits
Investigations by DOL under Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
Immigration audits
Affirmative Action audits by the OFCCP (Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs)
I-9 audits

Covenants and agreements:

Restrictive covenant agreements that include non-compete, non-solicit, non-disparagement, and non-disclosure provisions
Confidentiality agreements

Counseling and training:

Policy review
Employee handbook review
Sexual harassment training
Manager and supervisor training

Employment litigation and employment defense in state and federal court:

Represent employers in discrimination (age, sex, gender, religion, disability, genetics, race, color, or national origin), harassment, and retaliation claims
Represent companies with respect to USERRA (Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, or military leave law)
Represent companies and employers in WARN (Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act) and RIF (Reduction in Force) claims

Experience

HunterMaclean attorneys litigated the seminal mandatory arbitration case in the Eleventh Circuit establishing that companies may create binding arbitration agreements with their employees through internal dispute resolution policies. Caley v. Gulfstream Aero. Corp., 333 F. Supp. 2d 1367 (N.D. Ga. 2004), aff’d, 428 F.3d 1359 (11th Cir. 2005), cert. denied, 547 U.S. 1128 (2006).
HunterMaclean attorneys represented the prevailing parties in the then seminal cases in the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals concerning Georgia’s stringent requirements for enforceable non-compete agreements. Keener v. Convergys Corp., 205 F. Supp. 2d 1374 (S.D. Ga. 2002), question certified to Georgia Supreme Court, 312 F.3d 1236 (11th Cir. 2002), certified question answered, 276 Ga. 808 (2003), aff’d in part and rev’d in part, 342 F.3d 1264 (11th Cir. 2003); Palmer & Cay, Inc. v. Marsh & McLennan Cos., 404 F.3d 1297 (11th Cir. 2005).
Huene v. The Landings Club, Inc. Obtained a dismissal of member’s lawsuit against a private club because the club is not subject to constitutional due process restrictions, nor does Title III of the ADA apply.
Bacon v. Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation. Obtained a favorable order dismissing plaintiff’s claims of age discrimination in a contentious arbitration proceeding.
Hart v. Camden Urgent Care. Plaintiff voluntarily dismissed federal FLSA lawsuit after HunterMaclean filed a detailed motion for summary judgment.
Washington v. Waffle House, Inc. Very favorable settlement of claims arising out of assault by security guard after protracted litigation where client had significant exposure to liability.
Hobby v. Momentum Resources II, Inc. Superior Court granted defendant’s motion for summary judgment on plaintiff’s claim of disability discrimination based on Georgia law.
Cooksey v. South Atlantic Forest Products, Inc. Superior Court granted defendant’s temporary restraining order to enforce employment covenants.
Wagner v. Murphy Oil USA. Jury verdict for the defendant in FLSA case affirming that that former store manager was properly classified for wage/hour purposes and therefore exempt from overtime.
Matos v. Fulcrum Properties, Inc. Summary judgment for defendant on state tort claims. Jury verdict for defendant on Title VII and § 1981 claims of racial/national origin harassment, disparate treatment, and retaliation.

Publications & Presentations

Publications

The Department of Labor Has Updated its Rules for Unpaid Internships

This article for Business in Savannah outlines the new rules governing unpaid internships.

It’s the Holidays: Let’s Talk about Harassment

Employment attorney Sarah Lamar discusses sexual harassment pitfalls in the workplace during the holiday season.

Overtime Rules Up in the Air

Employment attorney Wade Herring gives an update on the FLSA overtime rules in his article for Business in Savannah.

Federal Contractor Affirmative Action Requirements: Are You Keeping Up?

If your business contracts with the federal government, or if you contract with another company that does business with the federal government, you may have affirmative action obligations under a number of federal laws. Sarah Lamar explains further in her article for Business in Savannah.

Employment Law Legislative Update First Quarter 2016

In her first quarter legislative update of 2016 for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), HunterMaclean partner Sarah Lamar highlights recent changes in employment law.

Employment Law Legislative Update Fourth Quarter 2015

HunterMaclean attorney Sarah Lamar highlights recent changes in employment law in her fourth quarter legislative update of 2015 for the Society for Human Resource Management.

Preparing for Department of Labor Proposed Changes Affecting Overtime Pay

The Department of Labor has announced proposed changes to regulations implementing the Fair Labor Standards Act, in particular the overtime exemption that allows certain employees to be paid a salary without overtime pay. Attorney Wade Herring discusses how these changes could impact labor costs for employers.

Employment Law Legislative Update Third Quarter 2015

HunterMaclean partner Sarah Lamar discusses recent changes in employment law in her third quarterly legislative update of 2015 for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

Arbitration of Employment Disputes

In this article for Business in Savannah, attorney Kirby Mason addresses employers about the importance of including an arbitration provision in written employment contracts for the resolution of disputes.

Georgia Garnishment Law Still in Flux

Businesses, employers, attorneys, and individuals throughout Georgia have faced legal uncertainty since 9/8/15 when U.S. District Court Judge Marvin Shoob declared the state’s garnishment statute unconstitutional.

The NLRB’s Joint Employer Decision Impacts All Employers

After many months of speculation, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has expanded the definition of “joint employer” under the federal labor laws. Attorney Sarah Lamar discusses how the new standard applies to businesses in this article for the Savannah Morning News.

The Top Five Self-Audits Every Employer Should Perform

By Sarah H. Lamar, published in the September/October 2015 issue of The Georgia Contractor.

Employment Law Legislative Update Second Quarter 2015

HunterMaclean partner Sarah Lamar discusses recent changes in employment law in her second quarterly legislative update of 2015 for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

Much Ado About 401(k) Fees

Most business conflicts risk only business assets, but both personal liability and criminal penalties are possible under ERISA, the federal law that governs 401(k) plans. Attorney Rebecca Sczepanski discusses 401(k) plans in this article for Business in Savannah.

Employee or independent contractor? The basics for business owners

A frequent area of confusion for business owners and managers concerns the difference between employees and independent contractors. Attorney Wade Herring sheds some light on the issue in this article for the Savannah Morning News.

Employment Law Legislative Update First Quarter 2015

Attorney Sarah Lamar highlights recent changes in employment law in her 2015 first quarterly legislative update for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

President Obama's executive order on immigration: Part 2 of 2

Sarah Lamar continues her discussion on President Obama’s executive order on immigration in Part 2 of this two-part series for the Savannah Morning News. In Part 2, she explores the elements of the new immigration plan that relate to businesses and high-skilled workers in particular.

President Obama's executive order on immigration: Part 1 of 2

In Part 1 of this two-part column, attorney Sarah Lamar reviews the provisions of President Obama’s new immigration plan, which will allow up to 5 million undocumented aliens to remain and work in the United States by deferring their deportations for three years at a time.

Employment Law Legislative Update Fourth Quarter 2014

In her fourth quarter legislative update of 2014 for the Society for Human Resource Management, HunterMaclean partner Sarah Lamar discusses recent changes in employment law.

An Overview of Obama's Executive Order on Immigration

When President Obama announced his executive order on immigration in November 2014, the broad outline he presented raised many questions. This article by attorney Sarah Lamar is an overview of a two-part series in Savannah Morning News, detailing the upcoming changes and how they could impact businesses.

Equity Compensation for Key Employees: An Overview

This article in Business in Savannah discusses the different ways to use company equity to compensate key employees, including stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights, and phantom stock.

Employment Law Legislative Update Third Quarter 2014

Attorney Sarah Lamar discusses recent changes in employment law in her third quarterly legislative update for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

Short ACA Enrollment Window May Offer COBRA Cost Saving

New options available under the Affordable Care Act may provide savings for employers providing COBRA coverage, for newly eligible COBRA beneficiaries, and for a short window of time, for current COBRA beneficiaries as well. These coverage options introduce new opportunities for employers to reduce COBRA costs and new complexities in coordinating coverage and severance benefits.

Salary Secrecy and the Law

Although many people prefer not to talk about their salary with their colleagues, some companies go so far as to have policies against it, which is at odds with existing law. All employees, whether they work in the government or private sector, have a right to discuss compensation as a result of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) of 1935.

Employment Law Legislative Update Second Quarter 2014

Sarah Lamar gives an overview of recent changes in employment law in her second quarterly legislative update for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

How Should Federal Contractors Prepare for the New Federal Minimum Wage?

Per an executive order issued by President Obama on February 12, 2014, government contractors entering into new federal construction or service contracts are required to pay employees $10.10 per hour. The order also dictates that the minimum hourly wage for federal contractors’ tipped employees be raised to $4.95 an hour. What does the executive order do, to whom does it apply, and what is the timeframe?

Employment Law Legislative Update First Quarter 2014

In her first quarterly legislative update of 2014 for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Sarah Lamar gives an overview of recent changes in employment law.

Employer Responses to Unemployment Benefits Claims Take on Greater Importance

HunterMaclean partner Wade Herring discusses how a recent ruling by the Georgia Department of Labor (DOL) will change how employers respond to unemployment benefits claims.

Employment Law Legislative Update Fourth Quarter 2013

In her fourth quarterly legislative update for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Sarah Lamar discusses recent changes in employment law.

Third Quarterly Legislative Update: 2013

Sarah Lamar discusses recent changes in employment law in her third quarterly legislative update for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

October 1 Affordable Care Act Deadline Will Affect Local Employers

HunterMaclean Attorney Rebecca Sczepanski discusses upcoming Affordable Care Act deadlines, offering advice for area employers regarding compliance with new federal healthcare law.

Appeals Court Strikes Down Controversial Poster Requirement

HunterMaclean partner Sarah Lamar discusses the recent appeals court ruling that the NLRB cannot require employers to display posters informing workers about their right to form a union and collectively bargain.

Fiduciary Responsibility for 401(k) Plans

HunterMaclean attorney Rebecca Sczepanski discusses fiduciary responsibility for retirements plans in today’s ever-changing regulatory environment.

Second Quarterly Legislative Update: 2013

In her second quarterly update for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Sarah Lamar discusses recent changes in employment law.

Issuing Final Payments in the Workplace

In an article for the Society for Human Resource Management, employment attorney Wade Herring II discusses the state and federal laws regarding issuing final payments.

Separation Pay in Georgia

HunterMaclean partner Wade Herring, II explains the law surrounding separate pay in Georgia.

Employers Must Begin Using New I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form

The federal government has created a new version of the Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9. This article gives a section-by-section overview of the new form, as well as links to download the updated form and the new USCIS employer handbook.

OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Changes Set for 2013

Partner Brad Harmon explains the changes to OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard requirements that will begin to affect employers in 2013.

Workplace Social Media Rules Are In Transition

This article for Business in Savannah explores the changing social media landscape in today’s workplace.

Bullying in the Workplace Can be Labeled Harassment

HunterMaclean Partner Wade W. Herring II discusses the laws surrounding bullying in the workplace, details recourse for employees who are victims of a hostile work environment and examines why bullying is bad business.

Guidance for Criminal Background Checks

HunterMaclean Partner Kirby G. Mason discusses the EEOC’s new recommendations for employers using criminal background checks to make hiring and other employment decisions.

NLRB Posting Requirements Are Delayed Yet Again

By Sarah H. Lamar, published on March 7, 2012, in Business in Savannah.

When Congress enacted the National Labor and Relations Act (NLRA) in the 1930s to protect the rights of employees and employers from certain private sector labor and management practices that were damaging to the general welfare of workers, businesses and the U.S economy, it could not have foreseen the political volley the Act has become today, with opposing forces scrambling for leverage.

Status Check on Health Care Reform

In March 2010, the 111th Congress initiated sweeping health care system changes when it passed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act (both referred to as “PPACA”), which were swiftly signed into law by President Obama. Some changes already apply and additional changes to the health care system will be systematically applied, pending constitutional challenges, over the next few years.

Does the Company or Staff Own Its Social Media Activities?

By Shawn A. Kachmar, published in Business in Savannah.

There is no doubt that the emergence of social media use in our everyday lives – both personally and professionally – has generated conflicting feelings of enthusiasm and uncertainty.

Businesses looking to establish a social media presence are faced with questions about which social media platforms and strategies are most effective and who is responsible for implementing the company’s social media strategy. Often overlooked in this process are questions about ownership of the company’s social media activities.

Increased NLRB Activity Causes Controversy

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has stepped up its scrutiny and oversight of alleged National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) violators, causing unrest among business leaders who oppose and fear an increasingly active NLRB. The five-member board is working to adopt a more pro-union perspective on the heels of the relatively pro-employer era of President Bush through increased enforcement and new rules.

The NLRA covers most private employers that meet certain minimum standards for involvement in interstate commerce. Retail or service employers are generally covered if they have gross sales of more than $500,000. Other employers (including manufacturers) are generally covered if they have an “inflow” or “outflow” of $50,000 or more to or from other states. The NLRA does not cover public employers and certain employers in the transportation industry.

Federal, State Immigration Law Reform: What Employers Need to Know

On September 21, 2011, the Judiciary Committee of the United States House of Representatives approved a proposed bill that would mandate the use of E-Verify for all new hires in the U.S. The bill will now go to the full House of Representatives for a vote, but a date has not been determined. The proposed bill is the latest in a series of state and federal attempts to create a solution to immigration and employment concerns across the nation.

Georgia already has a mandatory E-Verify law, House Bill 87. Every public employer and most private employers will eventually be required to use E-Verify to determine the work authorization of new employees. Georgia employers with 500 or more employees will be required to use E-Verify starting January 1, 2012; employers with 100 to 499 employees will be required to use it starting July 1, 2012; and, employers with 10 to 99 employees will be required to use the program starting July 1, 2013.

Restrictive Covenants for Technology Companies

By Shawn A. Kachmar, published in Business in Savannah.

All employers are faced with similar employment law issues: How should we conduct our hiring and screening process? When should an employee be disciplined or terminated? Can we conduct a pre-hire drug test? How should the employee be classified under the Fair Labor Standards Act for pay purposes? What types of conduct are prohibited in the workplace? What laws governing the workplace apply to us?

Technology companies, however, are confronted with several unique issues because of the rapid pace of innovation and change in the technology industry. Some of those issues include the retention of talented employees and the preservation of the company’s most valuable assets — the technology and intellectual property it is producing. Employee retention and the protection of a company’s intellectual property are often addressed through restrictive covenants and invention agreements. The laws governing these types of agreements vary widely from state to state. This article provides a brief overview of the types of covenants and agreements typically utilized by technology companies and a description of how they are interpreted in Georgia.

Click here for PDF

Using Social Media to Screen Job Candidates

By Shawn A. Kachmar, published in Business in Savannah.

When it comes to screening job candidates, criminal background checks and credit report reviews have been standard procedure for many Savannah area companies for years. However, a growing number of area companies are now requiring job candidates to pass a social media background check, marking the latest frontier in a larger national employment trend.

Social media is here to stay and, by any measure, is having a major impact on the way employers screen and hire job applicants. According to the 10th Annual Sources of Hire Study released by CareerXroads in March of 2011, more than 88 percent of employers surveyed reported that they consider social media to be an important part of their overall direct-sourcing efforts.

Georgia's New Restrictive Covenant Law: Third Time's The Charm

By Sarah H. Lamar, published on June 29, 2011, in Business in Savannah.

Until recently, Georgia has been considered “unfriendly” to restrictive covenants as they related to employment. Such covenants include non-competition, non-solicitation and confidentiality agreements.

During the 2009 legislative session, the Georgia General Assembly passed House Bill 173 in an effort to broaden the reach of restrictive covenants and make them more enforceable in the state. The law was contingent upon the passage of a constitutional amendment.

Final GINA Regulations Now in Effect

By Sarah H. Lamar, published on February 16, 2011, in Business in Savannah.

According to the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 (GINA), “experts predict that the twenty-first century will see tremendous strides in the new field of genomic medicine, bringing it into mainstream medical practice.”

As the number of genetic tests have increased, specifically for individuals testing to see if they are at risk for developing a specific disease or disorder, so do concerns of the general public about whether they may be at risk of losing access to health coverage or employment if both insurers and employers have their genetic information.

Voice of Experience: Sarah Lamar, Partner, HunterMaclean and President of ALFA International

The Glass Hammer’s Voices of Experience Series recently featured Sarah Lamar, a partner at Hunter, Maclean, Exley & Dunn, P.C. and President of ALFA International, a global legal networking organization.

Benefit Packages Gain Importance in the Current Economic Climate

By Sarah H. Lamar, published on December 2, 2009, in Savannah Business Journal.

The current economic climate has largely halted the luxury of shopping around for a job. In fact, during the recession, most employees are ranking their monetary needs according to basic necessities, including the value of a good benefits package. While compensation is of obvious importance, benefits are increasingly becoming an extra consideration in the pursuit of financial viability.

“The trend has shifted the responsibility of planning, preparing, and funding a typical employer defined benefits type plan to 401(k) type plans, or contribution plans,” said Jim LaHaise, executive vice president and chief banking officer at The Coastal Bank. “A change in the business model and the transition to today’s highly portable employee has contributed to this current trend in 401(k), IRA’s, and rollover plans.”

2006 Amendments to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure - Electronic Discovery has Arrived

By Shawn A. Kachmar, published in Products Liability Perspectives 2, no. 3 (Fall/Winter 2006).

Click here for PDF

Supreme Court Weighs Meaning of Retaliation

By Sarah H. Lamar, published on January 9, 2006, in The Business Report & Journal.

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Employee Retention in Smaller Businesses: How to Attract, Keep Employees

By Shawn A. Kachmar, published in Business in Savannah.

All businesses, large or small, routinely confront recruiting and retention problems.

Such problems are magnified in small or medium-sized businesses where a star employee’s departure can have a significant impact on the bottom-line. Most small and medium-sized businesses cannot afford the highest pay or best benefits package in their industry, but are still competing with market giants for talent.

Obesity and the ADA: Coverage for a Large Group

By Wade W. Herring, II, published on November 28, 2000, in Employment Publication.

“But wait a bit,” the Oysters cried,
“Before we have our chat;
For some of us are out of breath,
And all of us are fat!”
The Walrus and the Carpenter by Lewis Carroll

Does obesity constitute a disability under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or the Americans with Disabilities Act? Statistics indicate that the percentage of Americans who are overweight is steadily increasing. The United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit decision in the case of Cook v. State of Rhode Island, Dept. of MHRH renewed debate about whether obesity is a disability protected by law.

Defining and Preventing Sexual Harassment

By Wade W. Herring, II, published on January 9, 2000, in Employment Publication.

Sexual harassment in the workplace has been of increasing concern for employers and employees over the past 15 years. What is sexual harassment, and what can employers do to prevent it? Under what circumstances are employers liable for sexual harassment? What should employees do when they believe that they have been harassed?

SEXUAL HARASSMENT — AN ELUSIVE DEFINITION. Fundamentally, sexual harassment is discrimination because of sex, illegal under Title VII of the Federal Civil Rights Act of 1964.

The Americans Disabilities Act Can Affect Your Business

By Sarah H. Lamar, published on December 6, 1999, in The Business Report & Journal.

Business owners not currently employing disabled individuals may think the American Disabilities Act should be of little concern to them. However, employers should be aware of changes and requirements of the Act that could indeed impact many of their hiring, tiring and promotion practices.

Congress passed the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”)in 1990 to eliminate discrimination against individuals with disabilities. The ADA broadly impacts the relationship between employers and their employees. Although the ADA was modeled closely on the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which still applies to entities receiving federal financial assistance, the reach of the ADA is much broader. The ADA has three main sections or “titles” – Title I prohibits discrimination by employers; Title II prohibits discrimination by public agencies; and Title III prohibits discrimination by “public accommodations,” such as stores, theaters, and restaurants.

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Presentations

Preparing for Electronic Discovery in Litigation

Presented by Emery L. Lyon as part of Employment Law: Advanced Issues and Answers, a seminar by the National Business Institute, at Hotel Indigo in Savannah, Georgia, on December 4, 2019.

Managing the Unmanageable Employee

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar to the Savannah Dental Society in Savannah, Georgia, on October 10, 2019.

Management Training

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar to the Assisted Living Association of Georgia at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island, Georgia, on September 13, 2019.

Wage Issues

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at Human Resource Law From Start to Finish, a seminar by the National Business Institute, in Savannah, Georgia, on August 7, 2019.

Employee Handbooks and Policies in the 21st Century

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at Human Resource Law From Start to Finish, a seminar by the National Business Institute, in Savannah, Georgia, on August 7, 2019.

Successful Hiring and Recruitment Steps

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at Human Resource Law From Start to Finish, a seminar by the National Business Institute, in Savannah, Georgia, on August 7, 2019.

Arbitration: Thumbs Up or Thumbs Down?

Sarah H. Lamar moderated this panel at ALFA International’s 2019 Labor & Employment Practice Group Seminar in Bluffton, South Carolina, on June 13, 2019.

HR Performance Management

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar with Suzanne Kirk at the Leadership Southeast Georgia meeting on May 3, 2019, at the Dorchester Hunt Club in Midway, Georgia.

Framing a Culture of Resolution: A Cross-Cultural Exploration of Resolving Workplace Conflict in New Zealand and the United States

Sarah H. Lamar served as a panelist for this presentation at the American Bar Association’s 21st Annual Section of Dispute Resolution Spring Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on April 12, 2019.

#MeToo: What’s Next

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at the 2019 SHRM-Atlanta HR Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, on March 27, 2019.

Employment Law Legislative/Regulatory Update

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar to the Golden Isles Chapter of SHRM in Brunswick, Georgia, on March 20, 2019.

Best Practices for Managing Employees

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar to a town hall meeting of the Asian American Hotel Owners Association in Savannah, Georgia, on March 4, 2019.

Workplace Investigations

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at the 8th Annual Southeast Financial Human Resources Conference, sponsored by the Community Bankers Association of Georgia, in Atlanta, Georgia, on November 1, 2018.

What’s Next with the #MeToo Movement? An Employer's Evolving Obligations

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar to the Savannah Area Chapter of SHRM on August 15, 2018.

Sexual Harassment in the Era of #MeToo: An Employer’s Evolving Obligations

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at SOAHR 2018, SHRM-Atlanta’s 28th Annual HR Conference, on March 28, 2018.

Managing the Trifecta Loopholes: ADA, FMLA and Workers’ Compensation

Presented by Wade W. Herring, II, at the Destination Workplace Health Conference in Savannah, Georgia, on February 22, 2018.

Preventing and Addressing Harassment in the Workplace

A webinar presented by Sarah H. Lamar on behalf of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce on February 13, 2018.

Creating Rock Solid Documentation to Avoid a Potential Lawsuit

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar to the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association in Savannah, Georgia, on January 18, 2018.

An Opportunity for Service

Presented by Wade W. Herring, II, at the City Manager’s Leadership Meeting in Savannah, Georgia, on November 17, 2017.

Workers and Work: Who is a Worker Anyway?

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at the 7th Southeast Financial Human Resource Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, on November 2 and 3, 2017.

Reviewing Your Handbooks, Rules and Disciplinary Processes

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at the Coastal Georgia Center in Savannah, Georgia, on October 17, 2017.

Legislative and Regulatory Developments in Employment Law

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at the 2017 SHRM State Conference on HR Impact: Navigating Waves of Change in Brunswick, Georgia, on October 8, 2017.

Utilizing Alternative Dispute Resolution Tactics in Employment Matters

Presented by Wade W. Herring, II, at Employment Law: 2017 Comprehensive Guide, a seminar by the National Business Institute in Savannah, Georgia, on August 2, 2017.

Dealing with the Troubled/Troubling Employee

Presented by Wade W. Herring, II, at Employment Law: 2017 Comprehensive Guide, a seminar by the National Business Institute in Savannah, Georgia, on August 2, 2017.

Employment Law in a Trump Administration

Presented by Wade W. Herring, II, to the Liberty County Employer Committee in Hinesville, Georgia, on April 26, 2017.

Human Resources and Employment Law in a Trump Administration

Presented by Wade W. Herring, II, at the American Fidelity Assurance Company’s Defense Counsel Summit on April 14, 2017.

Legislative and Regulatory Developments and the New Administration

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at the Pinnacle Leadership Conference, sponsored by the West GA SHRM, in LaGrange, Georgia, on March 15, 2017.

When the OFCCP Comes Calling - Challenges Facing Government Contractors

Sarah H. Lamar served as a moderator for this panel at the ALFA Int’l client seminar on affirmative action matters in Miami, Florida, on March 4, 2017.

The Political Reveal: Legislative and Regulatory Developments in Employment Law and the Impact of the 2016 Elections

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar to the Atlanta chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) on October 5, 2016.

The New DOL Overtime Exemption Rules

Sarah Lamar spoke about the U.S. Department of Labor overtime exemption rules at the 2016 Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Georgia State Conference in Augusta, Georgia, on September 19, 2016.

It’s a Bird. It’s a Plane. No, it’s the New FLSA Changes!

Sarah Lamar spoke about the U.S. Department of Labor overtime exemption rules at the Southeastern Warehouse Association (SWA) Annual Conference in Saint Simons Island, Georgia, on September 17, 2016.

DOL Overtime Exemptions: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Presented by Wade W. Herring, II, to the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce in Brunswick, Georgia, on September 13, 2016.

Contractors, Immigration and Politics: How the Shortage of Craft Labor has Some Contractors Asking Politicians to Open the Borders

Presented at the 2016 ALFA International Construction Practice Group Seminar on July 29, 2016, in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. Sarah H. Lamar participated as a panelist.

Department of Labor Overtime Exemptions: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Presented by HunterMaclean Attorneys at the GACCE 2016 Executive Leadership Conference in Jekyll Island, GA, on July 21, 2016.

Who is Considered a Joint Employer?

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at Enlightening the EPL/PL World, a seminar hosted by ALFA International in New York, New York, on June 9, 2016.

Top Trends in Employment Law

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at the Coastal Empire Association of Health Underwriters (CEAHU) 12th Annual Symposium & Exhibitor Fair, held at Georgia Tech’s Savannah Campus on April 29, 2016.

Preparing for an OFCCP Review

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at Effective OFCCP Compliance & Affirmative Action Preparation, a seminar by Economic Research Service, in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, on February 25, 2016.

Legislative and Regulatory Update

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at the Georgia SHRM Leadership Conference on employment-related legislative issues in Columbus, Georgia, on January 22, 2016.

Legal Awareness in the Workplace: From Hiring to Termination — Effective Employee Management

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar as part of Georgia Southern University’s series on Legal Awareness in the Workplace in Statesboro, Georgia, on January 19, 2016.

Legal Awareness in the Workplace: Best Practices in the Hiring Process, Including Background Checks

Presented by Wade W. Herring, II, as part of Georgia Southern University’s series on Legal Awareness in the Workplace in Brunswick, Georgia, on December 1, 2015.

I-9s, E-Verify and Immigration Compliance

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar to the Statesboro chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) in Statesboro, Georgia, on November 18, 2015.

Legal Awareness in the Workplace: Managing Employee Leave, Including FMLA, ADA & Workers Comp

Presented by Shawn A. Kachmar in Savannah, Georgia, on November 17, 2015, as part of Georgia Southern University’s series on Legal Awareness in the Workplace.

Fit Test Your Business

How fit is your business? This PowerPoint provides overview information on four important aspects of your business’s legal “fitness”: business structure, employment, agreements and contracts, and business succession.

HR Legislative and Regulatory Update

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar to the Athens-Clarke County chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) in Athens, Georgia, on November 10, 2015.

Legal Awareness in the Workplace: Social Media – What Human Resource Professionals Should Know

Presented by Shawn A. Kachmar in Statesboro, Georgia, on October 20, 2015, as part of Georgia Southern University’s series on Legal Awareness in the Workplace.

Employment Law for Businesses of Any Size

Presented by Wade W. Herring, II, at the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce Lunch and Learn on October 6, 2015.

Legal Awareness in the Workplace: ADA Accommodations and Your Firm

Presented by Wade W. Herring, II, as part of Georgia Southern University’s series on Legal Awareness in the Workplace in Brunswick, Georgia, on September 22, 2015.

Legislative Panel Discussion

Sarah H. Lamar participated in this event for the SHRM Georgia State Council Annual Conference in Savannah, Georgia, on September 1, 2015.

Legal Awareness in the Workplace: Discrimination and Hostile Work Environment – What You Need to Know

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar in Savannah, Georgia, on August 18, 2015, as part of Georgia Southern University’s series on Legal Awareness in the Workplace.

How Do You Keep Your Employees Happy? Employment Considerations for Hospitality Industry

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at the Savannah Area Tourism Leadership Council (TLC) Connection Luncheon on May 21, 2015.

Legal Awareness in the Workplace: From Hiring to Termination – Effective Employee Management

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar in Brunswick, Georgia, on May 19, 2015, as part of Georgia Southern University’s series on Legal Awareness in the Workplace.

Employment Law for Businesses of Every Size

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar to clients of TJS Deemer Dana in its Savannah office on April 29, 2015, and in its Dublin office on May 6, 2015.

Preparing for an OFCCP Review

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at Effective OFCCP Compliance & Affirmative Action Preparation, a seminar by the ERS Group, on April 23 and 24, 2015.

Legal Awareness in the Workplace: Social Media Use – What Employers Should Know

Presented by Shawn A. Kachmar in Savannah, Georgia, on April 21, 2015, as part of Georgia Southern University’s series on Legal Awareness in the Workplace.

Discrimination and Harassment: Defining and Preventing

Wade W. Herring, II, presented to the 2015 conference of HPIP (High Performance Insulation Professionals) on identifying, defining, and preventing discrimination and harassment in the workplace.

Legal Awareness in the Workplace: Developing an In-Depth Understanding of the FMLA

Presented by Wade W. Herring, II, in Brunswick, Georgia, on March 10, 2015, as part of Georgia Southern University’s series on Legal Awareness in the Workplace.

Legal Lunch & Learn: Employment Law for Businesses of Any Size

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce in Brunswick, Georgia, on March 5, 2015.

Legal Awareness in the Workplace: Georgia Employment Law

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar in Savannah, Georgia, on February 3, 2015, as part of Georgia Southern University’s series on Legal Awareness in the Workplace.

Understanding Legislative & Regulatory Initiatives

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at Employment LAW: 2014 Comprehensive Guide, a seminar by the National Business Institute, in Savannah, Georgia, on December 10, 2014.

Health Care Reform: Impact on Health Care Insurance and Employee Benefits

Presented by Rebecca L. Sczepanski at the NBI Employment Law: 2014 Comprehensive Guide on December 10, 2014.

Avoiding Wage and Hour Violations

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at Employment LAW: 2014 Comprehensive Guide, a seminar by the National Business Institute, in Savannah, Georgia, on December 10, 2014.

Putting in Place Document Retention Programs

Presented at Employment LAW: 2014 Comprehensive Guide, a seminar by the National Business Institute, in Savannah, Georgia, on December 10, 2014, by Wade W. Herring, II.

Dealing With the Troubled/Troubling Employee

Presented at Employment LAW: 2014 Comprehensive Guide, a seminar by the National Business Institute, in Savannah, Georgia, on December 10, 2014, by Wade W. Herring, II.

Social Media & Privacy

Presented at Employment LAW: 2014 Comprehensive Guide, a seminar by the National Business Institute, in Savannah, Georgia, on December 10, 2014, by Shawn A. Kachmar.

Answers Over Easy: Employment Law for Businesses of Any Size

Presented at HunterMaclean’s main office in Savannah, Georgia, on November 12, 2014, by Wade W. Herring, II.

Brunswick Chamber Lunch and Learn: Legal Checklist for Success as You Grow Your Business

A Lunch and Learn presented by David Burkoff and Sarah Lamar on October 16, 2014, at the Brunswick/Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce. The event was co-sponsored with the Chamber and the UGA Small Business Development Center.

Pre-Employment Screening and Behavior Forecasting: Risk Avoidance or Exposure to New Risk?

Sarah H. Lamar participated as a panelist in this ALFA International webinar on June 4, 2014.

Employment Law: Beyond the Basics

A Sterling Education seminar presented by Wade Herring, Shawn Kachmar, Sarah Lamar, and Rebecca Sczepanski on June 3, 2014, in Savannah, Georgia.

Preparing for an OFCCP Review

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at Effective OFCCP Compliance & Affirmative Action Preparation, a seminar by the ERS Group, on March 20 and 21, 2014.

Live or Die – Summary Judgment, Motions to Dismiss, and Other Procedural Issues in Labor and Employment Litigation

Presented by Sarah H. Lamar at Nuts and Bolts of Labor and Employment Law, a seminar by the labor and employment law section of the Georgia Bar, on November 12, 2013.

ACA & Other Developments in Employment Law

Presented by Rebecca L. Sczepanski on September 19, 2013, at HR Law: What You Need to Know Now, a seminar by the National Business Institute.

Leave and Anti-Discrimination Laws

Presented at the Employment Law Update in Georgia seminar in Savannah, Georgia, on October 23, 2012, by Sarah H. Lamar.

Immigration Issues

Presented at the Employment Law Update in Georgia seminar in Savannah, Georgia, on October 23, 2012, by Sarah H. Lamar.

Paying Your Employees

Presented at the Employment Law Update in Georgia seminar in Savannah, Georgia, on October 23, 2012, by Wade W. Herring, II.

Documentation, Discipline and Discharge

Presented at the Employment Law Update in Georgia seminar in Savannah, Georgia, on October 23, 2012, by Wade W. Herring, II.

Recent Developments and Emerging Trends

Presented at the Employment Law Update in Georgia seminar in Savannah, Georgia, on October 23, 2012, by Shawn A. Kachmar.

Hiring Employees in Georgia

Presented at the Employment Law Update in Georgia seminar in Savannah, Georgia, on October 23, 2012, by Shawn A. Kachmar.

Miscellaneous Employment Issues

Presented at the Employment Law Update in Georgia seminar in Savannah, Georgia, on October 23, 2012, by Wade W. Herring, II.

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News

Attorney Emery L. Lyon Joins HunterMaclean

September 25, 2019

HunterMaclean recently welcomed Emery L. Lyon as an associate in the Firm’s employment group. Emory has experience with employment litigation involving claims of retaliation, discrimination, sexual harassment, wage and hour violations, and breach of contract.

The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers Announces Wade W. Herring, II, Inducted as Fellow

July 02, 2019

The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers recently elected Wade W. Herring, II, as a new Fellow. Election as a Fellow is the highest recognition by one’s colleagues of sustained outstanding performance in the profession.

HunterMaclean Listed in Prestigious Chambers USA 2019 Guide

April 29, 2019

HunterMaclean was recently ranked in the exclusive Chambers USA 2019. Considered the most trusted law resource guide worldwide, Chambers USA is compiled through a research-based review that evaluates the practice areas of hundreds of law firms.

HunterMaclean Listed in Prestigious Chambers USA 2018 Guide

June 20, 2018

HunterMaclean was ranked again this year in the exclusive Chambers USA 2018. Chambers guides are trusted across the globe to objectively rank the world’s best lawyers and law firms.

HunterMaclean Listed in Prestigious Chambers USA 2017 Guide

May 30, 2017

HunterMaclean was recognized again this year in the exclusive Chambers USA 2017. Chambers guides are the result of thousands of in-depth interviews by the largest research team of its kind. HunterMaclean is the only Savannah law firm to be ranked by Chambers USA.

HunterMaclean Listed in Prestigious Chambers USA Guide 2016

June 09, 2016

Three practice areas and four attorneys were recently ranked in the exclusive Chambers USA 2016. HunterMaclean is the only law firm in Savannah to be ranked by Chambers USA.

Fifteen HunterMaclean Attorneys Recognized as 2016 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

February 19, 2016

Ten HunterMaclean attorneys were recently selected as 2016 Georgia Super Lawyers and five attorneys as 2016 Rising Stars. The prestigious Super Lawyers honor, awarded annually, represents the top five percent of attorneys in each state in the nation.

Six HunterMaclean Attorneys Honored as 2015 Georgia Trend Legal Elite

December 03, 2015

HunterMaclean, a leading business law firm with offices in Savannah and Brunswick, is pleased to announce that six attorneys were recently named as 2015 Georgia Trend Legal Elite. Georgia Trend, a statewide business publication, publishes the annual feature honoring Georgia’s leading attorneys.

August 31, 2015

HunterMaclean, a leading business law firm with offices in Savannah and Brunswick, is pleased to announce that 20 attorneys from the firm were selected for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2016.

HunterMaclean Law Firm Ranked in Prestigious Chambers USA Guide 2015

May 29, 2015

HunterMaclean has been ranked in the Chambers USA Guide 2015, an exclusive annual listing of top law firms and lawyers in the United States. Chambers & Partners is widely considered the authority on rankings in the legal profession across the world.

Thirteen HunterMaclean Attorneys Honored as 2015 Georgia Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

February 20, 2015

HunterMaclean attorneys were recently honored as 2015 Georgia Super Lawyers and Rising Stars. The prestigious Georgia Super Lawyer honor is awarded annually to the top five percent of attorneys in the state.

Georgia CEO: HunterMaclean Marks 135 Years in the Practice of Law

December 16, 2014

The year 2014 marks the 135th anniversary of HunterMaclean. Lucy Adams from Georgia CEO interviewed Managing Partner Frank Macgill regarding HunterMaclean’s history, areas of expertise, milestone anniversary, and future.

HunterMaclean Law Firm Ranked in Chambers USA Guide 2014

May 29, 2014

HunterMaclean is pleased to announce that it has been ranked in the Chambers USA Guide 2014, an exclusive annual listing of top law firms and lawyers in the U.S. Chambers and Partners is widely considered the authority on lawyer and firm rankings in the legal profession across the world.

Fifteen HunterMaclean Attorneys Honored as 2014 Georgia Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

February 19, 2014

Atlanta magazine just announced the top attorneys in the state of Georgia, and 15 attorneys at HunterMaclean were named either Georgia Super Lawyers or Rising Stars.

25 HunterMaclean Attorneys Selected for The Best Lawyers in America® 2014

August 15, 2013

HunterMaclean is pleased to announce that 25 lawyers from the firm were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2014.

Businesses scramble to comply with same-sex ruling: Supreme Court decision to bring changes in retirement, healthcare, other employee benefits

July 01, 2013

Rebecca Sczepanski spoke with Mary Mayle from Savannah Morning News about how the recent changes in DOMA will affect businesses.

HunterMaclean Law Firm Ranked by Chambers USA Guide 2013

May 28, 2013

Four HunterMaclean attorneys and three practice areas earned rankings by Chambers USA, an elite peer-review process, for 2013.

HunterMaclean Attorneys Honored as Georgia Super Lawyers, Rising Stars

March 13, 2013

Nine HunterMaclean attorneys were recently recognized as Georgia Super Lawyers. Two of the firm’s partners were also named Rising Stars.

Sarah H. Lamar Named Co-Chair of Georgia Society of Human Resource Management Governmental Affairs Committee

February 11, 2013

Partner Sarah L. Lamar recently joined the Georgia SHRM’s Governmental Affairs Committee, which raises awareness of new laws, regulations and legislative initiatives across Georgia.

28 HunterMaclean Attorneys Among 'Best'

August 30, 2012

HunterMaclean, a business law firm with offices in Savannah and Brunswick, has announced that 28 lawyers from the firm were selected for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2013.

HunterMaclean Ranked by Chambers USA Guide 2012

June 27, 2012

HunterMaclean attorneys and practice areas have been listed by Chambers and Partners, an exclusive annual ranking of leading law firms and lawyers worldwide. The rigorous peer-review process followed by Chambers results in one of the most prestigious rankings in the legal profession.

Attorney Briefs: Sarah Lamar

January 05, 2010

Sarah H. Lamar, a partner at HunterMaclean in Savannah, Georgia, was elected chair of ALFA International.

Voice of Experience: Sarah Lamar

January 04, 2010

HunterMaclean Attorney Sarah H. Lamar Elected Chair of ALFA International

October 26, 2009

HunterMaclean partner Sarah H. Lamar was recently elected chair of ALFA International, one of the largest legal networks in the world, at the organization’s annual meeting in Chicago. She recently completed a two-year term as vice chair and has previously served on ALFA International’s Board of Directors and the Employment Practice Group Steering Committee.

Supreme Court Weighs Meaning of Retaliation

January 09, 2006

By Sarah H. Lamar, published on January 9, 2006, in The Business Report & Journal.

Click here for PDF

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Videos & Podcasts

Videos

Video: Wade Herring Enjoys Giving Back to the Community

Employment partner Wade Herring takes time away from his busy practice to discuss the work he does in the community.

Employment attorney Wade Herring on Georgia's At Will Law

Video: Wade Herring on Georgia's "At Will" Employment Doctrine

HunterMaclean employment attorney Wade Herring discusses the strength of Georgia’s “At Will” doctrine in this Savannah CEO video

Wade Herring Employment Law Regulation and Discretion

Video: Wade Herring on Informed Business Decisions in Employment

In this Savannah CEO video, HunterMaclean employment attorney Wade Herring discusses the wide discretion that Georgia business owners have in their workforce decisions.

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Podcasts

Podcast: Sarah Lamar Discusses Sexual Harassment and #MeToo: Advice to Project Managers

On June 19, 2018, Sarah Lamar was the guest on a regular podcast conducted by Velociteach, a continuing education company for project managers across different industries.

Podcast: Rebecca Sczepanski presents at the 2015 Savannah Fiduciary Seminar

In this HunterMaclean podcast Rebecca Sczepanski presents on identifying fiduciaries, tips and best practices for avoiding or mitigating risk associated with retirement plan fiduciaries, and an update of major fiduciary litigation.

Podcast of Employment Law for Any Sized Business

Podcast: Wade Herring Presentation on Employment Law for Businesses of Any Size

In this HunterMaclean podcast, employment attorney Wade Herring presents “Employment Law for Businesses of Any Size”. The presentation was made on November 12, 2014 as part of “Answers Over Easy” a breakfast-and-learn seminar series in partnership with the Savannah Small Business Development Center (SBDC).

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