March 12, 2024

The DOL’s New Independent Contractor Rule: Proper Classification is Crucial

On January 10, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor published new rules for classifying individuals as employees or independent contractors under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Understanding and correctly applying the new rule will be critical for avoiding potential liability. This video will cover what businesses need to know to comply and avoid potentially significant penalties and legal expenses. It will also cover information insurers need to know to help guide insureds and manage claims arising from lawsuits alleging FLSA violations.

Watch this pre-recorded content below from speaker Melisa Zwilling, Shareholder at Carr Allison.

Meet the Speaker

Melisa Zwilling, Shareholder Carr Allison Having practiced law for 25 years, Melisa Zwilling focuses on defending clients concerning Labor and Employment and Professional Liability matters. She handles claims alleging discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in addition to alleged violations of leave laws, civil rights laws, wage and hour laws, OSHA standards and guidelines, as well as other employment related claims. She practices in state and federal courts and before administrative agencies.

In addition to litigating claims, she also assists clients by drafting employee handbooks and non-compete, employment, and severance agreements. She provides daily guidance to employers on issues involving the hiring, discipline, and firing of employees to help them avoid lawsuits. Melisa also defends clients against allegations of malpractice, breach of contract, negligence and other related claims. Melisa graduated from the University of Alabama School of Law, cum laude, in 1998. She has published countless articles and spoken at numerous conferences and seminars across the country.

Melisa has repeatedly been selected as one of The Best Lawyers in America, most recently for Labor and Employment Litigation and Insurance Litigation. She has also been named a Top 50 Lawyer in America for Alabama. Previously, she was selected as one of Fortune magazine’s Women Leaders in the Law and recognized by Alabama Super Lawyers as one of Birmingham’s Top-Rated Lawyers.

Melisa was also invited to Time magazine’s list of the Most Influential Women in America and Fortune’s List of Premier Lawyers. Raised in the country, Melisa continues to spend much of her free time outdoors with her son and daughter. She especially enjoys building furniture, riding horses and fishing.