Michael T. Landen and Lisa J. Jerles

MIchael T. Landen

The holidays are among us, which means employees can look forward to company holiday parties to celebrate another successful year with their firm or companies. Unfortunately, the holiday season can also result in legal issues for both employers and employees, which may arise from seemingly harmless activities.
Holiday Parties
Holiday parties are a positive way to promote a healthy, collaborative and comfortable working environment. Many employers strive to create a family-friendly environment in the workplace, and the holiday party is an effective way for employees to get to know one another outside of the office. The goal, however, is that employees do not become too comfortable in their surroundings and forego company policies, potentially bringing unwarranted legal claims to the company.

Lisa Jerles

According to a recent study by the Society for Human Resource Management, approximately 65 percent of companies are having a holiday party, of which 59 percent plan to serve alcohol. Alcohol can increase the chances of a legal issue arising from drunk driving, sexual harassment or worker’s compensation due to an injury. But by planning ahead, employers can take steps to mitigate issues that may arise from alcohol consumption at the office holiday party.
Read more in Part 2: http://bit.ly/1S7dVQ1