(360) 733-3773 Bellingham, WA

SHEPARD_ALLEN2

Washington State Employers Required To Provide Salary Info In 2023

Posted by David Brown 
· June 7, 2022 

In the past, a typical job listing did not have to include salary info. However, Washington state has taken steps to rectify this. The new change will take effect beginning in 2023 and will apply to companies that employ 15 or more individuals.

Washington EPOA

The Washington Equal Pay and Opportunities Act, otherwise known as EPOA, passed an amendment in 2019 stating that employers had to provide salary information if an applicant asked for it prior to accepting a job. On March 30, 2022, this amendment was updated. As a result, starting on January 1, 2023, employers in Washington state have to disclose both the salary range and pay scale of any position they are hiring for. They also have to let potential employees know details about any other compensation that comes with the job, including benefits. This information must be disclosed in every job ad a company posts.

There are times when a specific job does not have a salary range or wage scale. Part of the update to the 2019 amendment states that in these cases, companies have to disclose the minimum amount a job pays. This applies to ads for jobs being fulfilled by outside candidates, as well as promotions granted to those already working for a company.

The amendment does not require employers to include this information on something as simple as a “help wanted” sign. According to Washington state law, anything stating that a company needs to fill a specific position is required to mention the pieces of information discussed above.

The Effect On Job Candidates

What this means for job candidates is that they can expect listings to include details about any bonuses offered by the company, as well as information on retirement benefits, health insurance and paid time off. However, it should be noted that employers are not permitted to include certain words in job ads. These include words like insurance, and bonuses.

The penalties will remain the same for any company that violates the EPOA in any way, allowing employees to pursue legal action if the terms of a job are misrepresented.

Categories : News
Tags : , , , ,

Tips on Getting Through a Domestic Violence Case

Posted by David Brown 
· May 26, 2022 

Every year, about 10 million people in the US are victims of domestic violence. One in every four women and one in every ten men experience a form of domestic abuse. Anyone who has gone through a domestic violence case will tell you that it can be stressful and emotionally draining. When you face these charges, not only do you have a case to deal with, but you can also be alienated by society. If this happens to you, here are some tips to help you get through it.

Contact an Experienced Domestic Violence Attorney

Even when a domestic violence charge seems minor, such as disorderly conduct, hire a domestic violence attorney. Being convicted of such an offense can affect your reputation or even your earning capacity. A lawyer will fight for your rights and ensure that the case is resolved quickly without causing much damage.

Understand Your Rights

In every case, the defendant has several rights. If you have been charged with domestic violence, you have the right to get a witness to testify in your favor, evaluate the evidence by state, present your evidence, etc. Having a lawyer by your side can ensure you have a clear grasp of your rights.

Go for Therapy if You Are Going Through a Hard Time Emotionally

While therapy is important for victims of domestic abuse, it can also help someone accused of this crime. Going through such a case can be stressful. A few sessions will help keep your emotions in check and allow you to rebuild relationships with loved ones. Plus, proof that you are going to counseling can have a positive effect on your case.

Do Not Pick Up New Arrests

The fact that domestic violence is the main cause of any injuries to women means that these are cases taken seriously. So the worst thing you can do in your case is get arrested for something new while your case is still going on. The court will not be very kind in your case. Try and stay away from trouble. A domestic case can last even two years. Avoid new arrests and stay focused until the case is resolved.

A domestic violence case can be overwhelming. But if you follow these tips, you will be in a better position to manage the situation.

Categories : News
Tags : , ,

4 Essential Qualities to Look for In a Personal Injury Attorney

Posted by David Brown 
· May 24, 2022 

When you’re getting ready to take someone to court for a personal injury, you need a lawyer on your side that is truly on your side. Personal injuries are traumatic – the last thing you want is to feel re-victimized by the person who is supposed to be helping you. Though you can never be absolutely sure, there are some qualities that can help ensure a positive outcome.

They Are Experienced and Have a Quality Reputation

You want an attorney that knows how to handle your case, so the first step is to find one experienced in personal injuries. You also want someone who is respected by their clients. The best way to find a lawyer that fits both is to ask around. Friends, family, and coworkers are often good sources. Community pages on social media can be a good place to ask. Also, don’t forget to take a look at their Google reviews, as these can be very telling.

They’re Honest From the Start

You need to know the truth about your case. You don’t need to be strung along just so your attorney can make more money. A good attorney will be honest with you from the first meeting. They’ll be truthful about your chances of winning, tell you if they think it’s a losing battle, and be transparent about how much they’ll charge you.

They Treat You Like a Human – Not a Paycheck

Everyone goes to work to get paid – and your lawyer is no different. However, they should treat you like you’re more than a job. You’ve been through a trauma, and your lawyer should understand and respect that. They don’t have to hug you and literally hold your hand, but they should have compassion. And they should be happy to walk you through the process and do their part to reduce the burden you carry.

They Communicate In a Way You Can Understand

Legal terminology is their specialty – not yours. You shouldn’t be expected to understand everything they mean. If a lawyer cannot speak to you in a normal manner or answer your questions in a way you can understand, they’re probably not the partner for you.

A personal injury is not fun to deal with – neither is a court case. Having a good attorney on your side, however, can make the entire process a bit less stressful, so take the time to find one with the qualities mentioned above.

Categories : News
Tags :

Judge Grants Injunction to Keep Animal Researchers’ Names Anonymous

Posted by David Brown 
· May 19, 2022 

A judge has granted representatives at the University of Washington the right to keep their names confidential while participating in animal research.

The injunction was granted after a filing by the committee members. They say that they have been targeted by animal rights activists, who are protesting the university’s use of animal subjects in research.

The activists have spent more than a year attempting to access the name of committee members, saying that the research is illegal. The protests have spread beyond the university campus, with picketers showing up at members’ homes.

The participants, who filed the lawsuit anonymously, are part of the University of Washington Animal Care and Use Committee. While they are permitted to use animal testing, they are legally bound to operate under the Animal Welfare Act

The Animal Care and Use Committee or IACUC exists to monitor the use of animals in the university’s research. This includes ensuring that the use is warranted and that all protocols are observed.

The IACUC includes 70 members, including veterinarians, research scientists, medical professionals, and others. By law, non-scientists such as ethicists or members of the clergy must be included.

Activists from PETA say that the IACUC has brought its actions under suspicion because it does not have an ethicist among its members. They also say that there is no member on staff that fits the requirements of being unaffiliated with the university or animal research entities.

These claims were first brought up by Lisa Jones-Engel. Jones-Engel served on the IACUC between 2017 and 2019 and now works as a senior science advisor at PETA.

Jones-Engel says that the lack of such persons on the IACUC staff causes a conflict of interest, leading to unjustified animal research that could violate the Animal Welfare Act.

She petitioned for the publication of the names, which the university originally agreed to. But the members of the IACUC anonymously filed a restraining order, citing harassment and intimidation both on campus and at their homes.

The intimidation incidents, they say, include leaving threatening voicemails and drawing comparisons to Nazi experimentation during the Second World War.

The judge’s decision has halted the publication of names, though this may be rescinded in a higher court as time goes on.

Categories : News
Tags : , ,

Columbia Riverkeeper and Weyerhaeuser Timber Firm to Settle Over Pollution Claims at Longview Timber Mill

Posted by David Brown 
· May 17, 2022 

The Washington State Department of Ecology has announced that Weyerhaeuser Timber Co. will pay $600,000 in fines to fund environmental cleanup, remediation of pollution, and upgrade at its Longview timber mill in Longview, WA.

Under the terms of the proposed settlement signed on Friday, Weyerhaeuser will:

  • Aerate ponds at its Longview site;
  • Reroute its storm water pipe;
  • Install monitoring devices and filters;
  • Find better onsite procedures for effective bark debris and wood management; and
  • Pay $5,000 in penalties and fines for any future violations occurring between 2023 and 2025

The proposal is subject to approval by the U.S. Department of Justice and must be signed by the federal judge before it unconditionally takes effect.

This settlement ends a legal battle between the Seattle-based timber giant, operating since the 1930s, and Columbia Riverkeeper (CRK), a local non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the Columbia River watershed.

CRK first sued Weyerhaeuser Timber Firm on March 7 for allegedly discharging harmful levels of wastewater into the Columbia River without proper treatment. The wastes include sawdust, sludge, elm, bark dust, and other wood products that contain potential toxins like arsenic and chromium. CRK alleges that these wastes can hurt the Columbia River’s aqua life by reducing oxygen levels and enhancing the growth of harmful bacteria.

According to Ecology officials, Weyerhaeuser’s Longview mill has an extensive history of discharging harmful run-offs into local waterways without proper treatment. Between 2019 and 2020, Weyerhaeuser’s Longview mill and two of its immediate neighbors, Nipon Dynawave and North Pacific Paper Corporation, were cited for dozens of violations of the Clean Water Act.

Nippon and North Pacific were once part of the larger Weyerhaeuser Timber Firm, which spanned 700 acres before their fallouts in 2016. The trio still shares infrastructure.

In a statement released by the Department of Ecology, Water Resources Director Laura Watson said: “This settlement will ensure that Weyerhaeuser protects human health and the environment through better stormwater management.” Further, Simone Anter, the CRK’s staff attorney, asserted that an agreement of that magnitude clearly shows that no corporation should flout the Clean Water Act, no matter how big it is. He revealed that CRK will continue the fight, keeping an eye on more complex cases in the future.

Categories : News
Tags : , ,

School Abuse Case in Seattle. Do You Know What Your Kids are Doing at School?

Posted by David Brown 
· May 12, 2022 

When we send our children to school, we do so thinking they are in a safe environment, conducive to learning. These days, there are many issues that parents need to be concerned about.

According to EducationWeek.com, there were 34 school shootings in 2021, of which 24 occurred after August 1st. Sexual abuse cases are also on the rise. Our trusted teachers, coaches, teachers’ aides, and mentors now need to be scrutinized to be sure they are safe for our children to be around.

 

Ballad High School Abuse Case:

One high-profile case occurred at Ballard High School, part of the Seattle school district. This case is especially difficult to comprehend because the soccer and basketball coach accused of sexual abuse crimes was already known as a danger to her students.

In 2018, Meghan Miller, a former University of Kansas goalkeeper, was hired for a position at Ballard High School, though it was aware of previous molestation accusations. Miller started at Ballard High as a teacher’s aide, then soccer coach.

Miller’s victim was 14 years old at the time the molestation began in 2016. She is now 17.

 

Looking for Easy Prey:

According to reports, Miller began a relationship with the student, who had been struggling with social and emotional issues. What started as a friendship, morphed over the next couple of years into a sexual relationship.

The coach became a central part of the student’s life. She acted as a confidant, walked her to classes, visited with her before and after school, and had steady communication throughout the day by text messaging. Many of these messages were sexual. Encounters would take place in city parks, in Miller’s office, and locker rooms.

Miller was charged with third-degree molestation and sexual misconduct with a minor. She was asked to surrender but declined through her lawyer. A $100,000 bond was issued for her arrest, and she was later booked into the King County Jail.

 

Due-Diligence:

Parents have a tough job these days. From homeschooling during COVID-19 to making sure children are protected when they are outside the home. It is a never-ending battle to know who children are spending time with and whether they are safe from harm and predators.

In the Miller case, the abuse came to light after the student expressed her desire for someone else her age, after which Miller broke down and cried.

The student told a friend about the clandestine relationship, who then alerted a staff member, who shared the information with administrators.

Categories : News
Tags : ,

Redmond, Washington Reaches Settlement in Fatal Police Shooting

Posted by David Brown 
· May 10, 2022 

The city of Redmond, Washington recently announced that it had settled with the family of a woman who was shot by police officers in her own apartment after calling 911 for help. In September of 2020, Andrea Thomas Churna called 911 to ask for police to come to her apartment for assistance. She told the 911 operators that she thought someone was trying to kill her. There was an audio recording of the 911 call. She had recently had a bad experience with her ex-boyfriend, and she was concerned.

When police arrived at the scene, they saw Churna climbing up a balcony. She told police that she had a mental health history and that she was concerned it might be playing a role. The police then asked Churna if she had a firearm. She did, and she retrieved it. While the handgun was jammed and inoperable, Churna was later shot and killed by the police. Officer Daniel Mendoza fired the fatal shot.

The Chief of the Redmond Police Department, Darrell Lowe, stated that Churna was unarmed when she was shot. Lowe admitted to the mistake, apologized to Churna’s family, and stated that the news release also contained an error. The initial report stated that Churna had confronted the officers with a handgun. That turned out to be false. The original press release also stated that multiple shots had been fired, which was also false. While there is an inquest going on, more details cannot be provided until it is concluded.

Fortunately for Ms. Churna’s family, a settlement has been reached which should provide some closure. The attorney representing Churna’s family, Kim Zak, announced that the city had reached a settlement of $7.5 million with the city of Redmond. The family and their attorney were prepared to show the multitude of errors that the city had made in handling the call of their loved one. While the settlement may provide some closure, it also has to lead to meaningful change that can prevent an issue like this from happening again. It will be interesting to see if the police department makes changes in how it receives and responds to 911 calls, particularly involving people with a history of mental health concerns.

Categories : News
Tags : , , ,

Judge Dismisses Lawsuit Filed Against the State of Washington’s Long Term Cares Act

Posted by David Brown 
· May 5, 2022 

A lawsuit was recently filed challenging the Long Term Cares Act in the state of Washington. That lawsuit was recently dismissed by a federal judge. The lawsuit sought to have the Long Term Cares Act governed by the same rules and regulations as ERISA, but the judge disagreed. In dismissing the lawsuit, the judge ruled that the Long Term Cares Act is not maintained by the employer and it is not an employee benefit plan. Therefore, the judge reasoned, the Long Term Cares Act is not subject to the same rules and regulations set up by ERISA. In addition, the court system indicated that the premiums collected by the Long Term Cares Act fall under the category of a state tax. As a result, they fall under the jurisdictions of the state courts, and not the federal courts.

The Long Term Cares Act in Washington, which was passed in 2019, was due to start collecting taxes in the form of payroll collections from employees in Washington to help cover the long-term care expenses of those who live in the state. In 2021, the governor of Washington, Jay Inslee, announced that the state would pause the collection of such taxes until the program had been reviewed by lawmakers to make sure the act was clear about how it would collect the money and how it would use it.

A class-action lawsuit was filed against the Long Term Cares Act, and it was reviewed by Judge Zilly of the US District Court. Ultimately, the case was dismissed because the judge felt the court system did not have jurisdiction. The Long Term Cares Act is not governed by ERISA, and the premiums are a tax, which means that the case does not fall under the jurisdiction of the federal court.

The plaintiffs held that the state acted as an employer when passing the Long Term Cares Act. If that were true, then the plan should be governed by ERISA. The plaintiffs also reasoned that, because the Long Term Cares Act assesses premiums on everyone and not just state employees, the state is acting as an employer in this situation. The judge dismissed this notion, but the case could be refiled with the state court system.

Categories : News
Tags : , , ,

The Top Signs You Need To Hire a Workplace Injury Attorney

Posted by David Brown 
· May 3, 2022 

When you go to work in the morning, you probably do not expect to suffer a serious injury. On the other hand, an accident can happen at any time, and you need to see a doctor as quickly as possible following the injury. The sooner it is diagnosed, the faster it can be properly treated. Then, you need to reach out to a workplace injury attorney who can review your case. There are a few signs that indicate that you need to work with a personal injury lawyer.

First, if your injuries are severe, you should always have your case reviewed by a workplace injury attorney. While you might have medical insurance through your work that will cover some of your expenses, you will probably still be responsible for a lot of out-of-pocket bills. This could include coinsurance, copays, and deductibles. If the injury was not your fault, you should not be responsible for these bills. A workplace injury attorney can review your case and see if someone else should be held responsible.

Next, if you are having a hard time getting your worker’s compensation benefits, a workplace injury attorney can assist you. Even though you suffered the injury at work, and you were acting in the scope of your employment, workers’ comp might do everything in their power to deny you your benefits. Sometimes, it takes a workplace injury lawyer to help you navigate the waters and get the compensation you deserve.

Finally, if your employer is not cooperating with you, this is a sign that you should be working with a workplace injury attorney. Your employer might not be cooperating with you because they know they are at fault or because they do not want to give you the compensation you deserve. You need to have your rights protected, and a workplace injury lawyer will always be in your corner. He or she can advocate for your best interests.

These are just a few of the many signs that you need to work with a workplace injury attorney. It can be devastating to suffer a serious injury at work, but remember that a personal injury lawyer can help you defend your rights.

Categories : News
Tags : , , ,

The Statute of Limitations on Personal Injury Cases

Posted by David Brown 
· April 28, 2022 

If you have suffered a serious injury either in a motor vehicle accident or at work, it is important to reach out to a doctor as quickly as possible. Then, do not forget to get a case consultation from a personal injury attorney. The statute of limitations might be ticking on your case, and you need to have your case reviewed and filed before the statute of limitations expires.

The statute of limitations is the time limit you have to file your case. Sometimes, the statute of limitations starts ticking from the original incident. In other cases, the statute of limitations starts from the time of discovery. The statute of limitations of personal injury cases can vary from state to state. It usually ranges between two and six years, but you need to hire a personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the legal waters and get your case filed on time.

If you do not file your case before the statute of limitations is up, then you should expect it to be dismissed. No matter how strong your case might be, and no matter how overwhelming the evidence, you probably will not have your case heard if you file it after the statute of limitations has expired.

On the other hand, there are a few exceptions. For example, if the case involves a minor, then the statute of limitations might start ticking from the time the minor child turns 18. This could open the door to another case. Or, the statute of limitations could involve discovery. For example, if you suffered a serious injury or illness due to asbestos exposure, but the asbestos was not discovered until years down the road, then the statute of limitations might start from when the asbestos was found, not from when you first fell ill.

Because there are a lot of nuances involving personal injury law, it is important to work with a lawyer who can help you put your case in the best position possible to be successful. While it can be frustrating to suffer a serious injury or illness, remember that you do not have to go through this alone. A personal injury attorney can fight for your rights.

Categories : News
Tags : , ,
← Previous Page
Next Page →

Bellingham Office:

2011 Young Street
Suite 202
Bellingham, WA  98225
(360) 733-3773 or 647-4567
(360) 647-9060 (facsimile)
info@saalawoffice.com

shepard_allen