Partner Alana K. Ackels authored the Texas Lawyer article “Layoffs and Unemployment Basics During the Coronavirus Pandemic.” The piece looks at options – including layoffs and furloughs – that employers may need to consider as the COVID-19 pandemic and related shelter-in-place restrictions uproot and suspend daily business life. She also explores how recent federal legislation, such as the CARES Act and the Families First Coronavirus Response Act may impact an employer’s decision calculus. And, Ackels looks at forward-thinking issues such as whether an employer’s unemployment tax account in Texas will be charged back and if rates will go up. She notes, “During this time of grave uncertainty, it is critical for lawyers to play their “counselor” role. We must help our clients navigate these complex (and sometimes heartbreaking) employment issues, while keeping the client’s long-term business in mind.”

To read the full article, please click here.