Legal

Glazing firms increasingly take on additional design work in design-build and design-assist projects. However, design and specification activities fall into a realm of professional services not usually covered by a commercial general liability insurance policy. 

A common vocabulary: Differences in term definitions can put glaziers at risk. Find out how to avoid confusion.

The artistic expression and technical precision in glass systems is found in installations regulated by standards, specifications and code requirements. Understanding the differences between these regulations can help identify where artistic and technical expressions cross into the legal realm.

The Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, requires that employers make reasonable accommodation for employees with disabilities, unless it creates undue hardship. This will have implications for employers during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Cares Act economic provisions include broad assistance and incentives to shore-up businesses and institutions impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

When faced with negotiating damages waivers, it is critical to recognize the language used and what it tries to capture. That way, if a breach occurs, the parties are not forced to rely on what a judge believes falls within the broad legal definitions of damages.

Recently there has been a change in the commercial general liability insurance marketplace that upends normal expectations. 

There is a battle in most states these days regarding how to define when an independent contractor is actually an employee. It is a battle that involves politics, legislatures and voters. And for companies misclassifying workers there are real risks of penalties, fines and even criminal charges.

Boilerplate terms can lead to uncertain commitment that, if left unaddressed, results in gaps where liability can arise, or contractual rights are limited. Addressing these gaps at the time of contracting is essential.   A recent court decision from the Court of Appeals for Indiana, A House…