Tag Archives: Connecticut

Second Circuit Expands “Cat’s Paw” Theory of Liability

By:  C. Scott Schwefel

On August 29, 2016, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, in Vasquez v Empress Ambulance Service, Inc. (No 15-3239-cv), expanded the theory of employment discrimination liability generally referred to as the “cat’s paw” theory.    … Read More

Connecticut Supreme Court Clarifies Independent Contractor Test

By:  C. Scott Schwefel

On March 15, 2016, in Standard Oil of Connecticut, Inc. v. Administrator, Unemployment Compensation Act, the Connecticut Supreme Court held that installers/technicians providing services to residential heating and alarm system customers of Standard Oil of Connecticut were independent contractors and not employees.   … Read More

Second Circuit Affirms Ruling That Employees’ Disparaging Posts on Facebook Were Protected, Concerted Activities

By:  C. Scott Schwefel

On October 21, 2015, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, which encompasses the states of Connecticut, New York and Vermont, affirmed a decision by the National Labor Relations Board (“NLRB”) finding that an employee’s “liking” another employee’s disparaging comments, directed at their employer, is protected under the National Labor Relations Act (the “Act”).  … Read More

Property Tax Appeals in Connecticut

There are a number of municipalities undergoing revaluation this year. If you are a property owner in these towns, you will soon receive a letter advising you of your new assessment.… Read More

Ethics in Commercial Real Estate Transactions

By: Mark S. Shipman

The role of the lawyer in a Commercial Real Estate Transaction is generally clear. It is the representation of the client to the best of the lawyer’s ability without committing or permitting an ethical breach.… Read More

New Connecticut Law Prohibits Employer Ban on Disclosing Wages

By C. Scott Schwefel

On July 2, 2015, Governor Dannel P. Malloy signed into law Public Act No. 15196, entitled “An Act Concerning Pay Equity and Fairness.” The law, which is effective immediately, now prohibits employers from preventing employees from voluntarily sharing information about their wages and, further, prohibits an employer from requiring an employee to sign a waiver that denies the employee his or her right to share such information.… Read More