As a result of changes in the workplace, more employers are choosing to utilize independent contractors rather than employees to perform work. At the same time, there has been an increase in misclassification claims by the DOL, state governments and contractors.

Nineteen states recently received a portion of $10.2 million in federal grants to aid in increased and coordinated employment classification enforcement efforts. Additionally, there has been a deluge of cases finding employment status for independent contractors, including one in which FedEx agreed to pay $228 million to settle claims filed by 2,300 misclassified independent contractors, and a case in which the NLRB clarified the independent contractor test it will apply in future cases.

Successful misclassification challenges can expose employers to significant liability under state and federal tax and employment laws. The first step in preserving independent contractor status is a well-drafted agreement since courts give little credence to standard forms and boilerplate provisions.

Listen as our distinguished panel discusses effective independent contractor agreement drafting techniques to avoid or reduce misclassification liability. The panel will offer instruction on tailoring the agreement to the specific situation; analyzing differing IRS, DOL and EEOC definitions; and understanding key provisions such as disclaimers, pinpoint industries and positions that carry a presumption of employee status.

View the webinar here. (Purchase necessary)