Shows
The Property LineRethinking Risk: Navigating Today’s CRE Insurance MarketRising insurance costs have become a major challenge for real estate owners, investors, and developers, with some deals no longer penciling out as a result. Inflation, climate-related disasters, and broader market volatility have all contributed to premium increases and reduced coverage availability. At the same time, emerging factors such as social inflation and third-party litigation funding are adding further pressure to insurers and policyholders alike.
In The Property Line’s 75th episode, James O’Brien and Eric Greenberg are joined by Rebecca Woods, co-chair of Seyfarth’s Commercial Litigation practice, to discuss what’s driving today’s insurance market and how proper...
2025-10-2720 minThe Property LineRethinking Servicing: Balancing Innovation and ExperienceIn today’s dynamic commercial real estate environment, loan servicers are playing an increasingly strategic role in balancing complex deal structures and evolving borrower expectations, with a growing focus on innovation. From multifaceted private equity transactions to portfolio-level SASB deals, servicing professionals are leveraging both expertise and creativity to meet the demands of a more sophisticated market. At the same time, advancements in AI, automation, and managing cybersecurity are creating new opportunities to enhance efficiency, transparency, data and information safety, and the overall borrower experience.
In this episode, Jan Sternin, senior vice president and managing director at Berkadia, joins Katie Sc...
2025-09-0812 min
Policy MattersThe Immigration Lens, Episode 8: International EducationPolicy issues often have long term widespread and pervasive impact on businesses. Not only can new governmental policies significantly affect the climate for business innovation and growth, they create precedents that affect future legislation and potentially spread across jurisdictions.
Each installment of the Policy Matters Podcast will provide timely updates regarding potential adverse impacts on benefits that policy changes can have on industry growth and offer a preview of what’s next in the competitive marketplace.
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On this episode of the Immigration Lens, Seyfarth attorneys, Mahsa Aliaskari and Dani Mayer are joined by special guest, Professor Rui Albuquerque, from Bo...
2025-08-2117 minPolicy MattersThe Immigration Lens, Episode 7: What Changed? Trump’s Travel Bans in 2017 and 2025Policy issues often have long term widespread and pervasive impact on businesses. Not only can new governmental policies significantly affect the climate for business innovation and growth, they create precedents that affect future legislation and potentially spread across jurisdictions.
Each installment of the Policy Matters Podcast will provide timely updates regarding potential adverse impacts on benefits that policy changes can have on industry growth and offer a preview of what’s next in the competitive marketplace.
On this episode of the Immigration Lens, Seyfarth attorneys Dani Mayer and Leon Rodriguez will discuss the Trump administration’s latest travel ban. With the...
2025-07-3009 min
To the Extent That...VC Law: Episode 38: Employee Equity Incentive Plans with Marc Fosse, Partner at Seyfarth Shaw LLPHost Gary J. Ross speaks with Marc Fosse, partner in Seyfarth Shaw’s San Francisco office and a nationally recognized expert on executive compensation, about the landscape of employee equity compensation. Marc outlines the differences between stock options, restricted stock, phantom equity, and profits interests. Gary and Marc then discuss some of the tax and legal concepts relating to employee equity plans such as 83(b) elections, Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT), and 409A compliance. To close out the episode, Marc talks about common pitfalls when granting equity and offers practical guidance for early-stage companies on equity compensation.
2025-07-0245 minPolicy MattersThe Immigration Lens, Episode 6: The Intersection of College Athletics and ImmigrationOn this episode of the Immigration Lens, Seyfarth attorneys Dani Mayer, Mahsa Aliaskari, and Alison Silveira will discuss the challenges and opportunities for international student athletes in college sports amidst evolving immigration laws and recent changes in compensation regulations in Name Image Likeness (NIL) deals. Tune in to catch up on the status of the shifting landscape of immigration for international student athletes.
Read the full transcript of this episode here: https://www.seyfarth.com/dir_docs/podcast_transcripts/PolicyMatters_ImmigrationLens_Episode6.pdf
2025-06-1320 minPolicy MattersThe Immigration Lens, Episode 5: Travel, Visas, and Re-entryOn this episode of The Immigration Lens, Seyfarth attorneys Mahsa Aliaskari and Jake Campbell will discuss the changes to visa stamping, travel, and re-entry, and how to prepare for this shift.
Read the full transcript of the episode here: https://www.seyfarth.com/dir_docs/podcast_transcripts/PolicyMatters_ImmigrationLens_Episode5.pdf
2025-05-1422 minPolicy MattersThe Immigration Lens, Episode 4: Understanding F-1 Visa ChallengesJoin Seyfarth Immigration attorneys Leon Rodriguez and Dani Mayer as they unpack the complexities of F-1 visas. Learn more about F-1s, SEVIS records, the lifecycle of students, and the impact of SEVIS termination or visa revocations on students and employers. Tune into the discussion on how employers can prepare for impact on their employees and understand the background of the F-1 visa classification. Since recording this episode, many international students have had their F-1 status restored; updated guidelines for status revocation is being issued.
Read the full transcript of this episode here: https://www.seyfarth.com/dir_docs/podcast...
2025-05-0610 minThe Property LinePowering Progress: Overcoming Energy Challenges in Data Center DevelopmentAs demand for data centers continues to rise, access to reliable power has become one of the biggest challenges facing developers. Skyrocketing costs, lengthy grid connection delays, and increasing competition for energy resources are reshaping site selection and project feasibility across the United States. At the same time, new technologies and alternative energy strategies—such as on-site generation and energy-first site selection—are emerging to help operators navigate these constraints and rethink how data centers secure and manage their power needs.
In this episode, Jeff Zygler, founder and CEO of Active Infrastructure, and Shawn Cutter, co-founder of EnergiAcres, join hosts Deni...
2025-04-0115 minPolicy MattersThe Immigration Lens, Episode 3: Sensitive LocationsOn this episode of the Immigration Lens, Seyfarth attorneys Leon Rodriguez and Dani Mayer will discuss the background of sensitive locations, who is impacted by the recent policy changes, and how employers should prepare for this shift. Tune in to catch up on the status of the policy shift around sensitive locations.
Read the full transcript of this episode here: https://www.seyfarth.com/dir_docs/podcast_transcripts/PolicyMatters_ImmigrationLens_Episode3.pdf
2025-03-3106 minPolicy MattersThe Immigration Lens, Episode 2: Birthright CitizenshipOn this episode of the Immigration Lens Podcast, Seyfarth attorneys Leon Rodriguez and Dani Mayer will discuss the background of birthright citizenship, who is impacted by the recent Executive Order, the constitutional challenges playing out in court, and how employers should prepare. Tune in to catch up on the status of the Birthright Citizenship Executive Order.
Read the full transcript of today's episode here: https://www.seyfarth.com/dir_docs/podcast_transcripts/PolicyMatters_Immigration%20Lens_BirthrightCitizenship.pdf
2025-03-3009 minThe Property LineBright Deals: Rooftop Solar LeasesRooftop solar leases are gaining traction as a way for commercial property owners to generate passive income while utilizing unused roof space. With falling solar costs, rising electricity prices, and new state programs driving demand—particularly in the industrial sector—these long-term agreements can provide a steady revenue stream with no upfront costs, making them an attractive opportunity for property owners. However, correctly navigating lease structures, development timelines, and maintenance responsibilities is essential to avoiding pitfalls.
In this episode, Josh Newell, senior vice president of Project Delivery at SolarKal, joins Chris Palmese, partner in Seyfarth’s Real Estate department, to break...
2025-03-1412 minThe Property Line2025 Is a Year of Opportunity in Commercial Real Estate (Market Survey Takeaways)In Seyfarth’s 10th annual Real Estate Market Sentiment Survey, commercial real estate executives express optimism for 2025, with 87% expecting a year of opportunity driven by improving market fundamentals and anticipated rate reductions. However, rising costs remain a significant concern, with respondents narrowing in on inflation, interest rates, and property insurance as factors that could drive up the cost of acquiring and operating real estate.
In this episode, Eric Greenberg and James O’Brien break down key findings from the survey, exploring market expectations, top challenges, surprising investment trends, and the expanding role of AI in real estate.
2025-03-0513 minPolicy MattersEpisode 45: International Political Economy and Business ImmigrationOn this episode of the Policy Matters Podcast, Seyfarth attorneys Daniela Mayer and Leon Rodriguez are joined by special guest Stephanie Oestreich, Managing Director, Myeloma Investment Fund, to discuss international political economy and business immigration implications– how national policy impacts economic growth, and how business immigration plays a role in corporate strategy.
2024-12-1013 min
Into the BreachEpisode 35: RWI Claims: Everything You Want To KnowIn a first for the podcast, Bryan and Gena are joined by special guest co-host Christine Kim, Counsel, Seyfarth Shaw, for a discussion with Phil Casper, Principal at Euclid Transactional, on RWI claims.
Topics discussed include:
• How Phil’s prior work as an underwriter helped prepare him for his current role in managing Euclid’s claims
• Background on Euclid’s claims team and how they are able to provide superior client service
• Why claims are the crux of the RWI product
• Phil’s “least favorite” type of claim
• The interplay between RWI premiums and claims paid, especially in the current rate environment
• Whe...
2024-09-1631 min
The Property LineBuying the Unknown: Distressed Asset Acquisitions in Times of Financial UncertaintyHigh interest rates, escalating costs, and rising vacancy rates have taken a toll on real estate assets, particularly in the office sector, with buildings in key markets selling at significant discounts. At the same time, refinancing options have become increasingly elusive. How can those interested in acquiring distressed assets capitalize on current market conditions?
In this episode, Jason DeJonker, partner in Seyfarth’s Corporate department and chair of the firm’s Restructuring & Insolvency practice, joins hosts Eric Greenberg and James O’Brien to discuss the process of buying distressed real estate, including initial best practices, key players, and opportunities to gain a...
2024-09-1613 min
Policy MattersEpisode 43: Wage & Hour Enforcement in a Changing Political LandscapeIn this episode of the Policy Matters podcast, Seyfarth attorneys A. Scott Hecker and Bradley D. Doucette delve into expected wage and hour priorities in the next presidential administration, depending on which candidate takes office. Scott and Brad provide insights into what these priorities could mean for employers, particularly regarding the Department of Labor’s enforcement activities. Their discussion covers the potential implications of a second Trump Administration on wage and hour rules presently being pursued by President Biden. Additionally, Scott and Brad address significant legal ramifications from the recent Loper Bright v. Raimondo decision and its potential effects on wa...
2024-09-0921 min
Take It or Leave ItEpisode 33: Exploring the EEOC’s Final Regulation on the Pregnant Workers Fairness ActAt long last the EEOC has issued its final regulation and interpretive guidance on the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), providing employers with additional insights on employee entitlements, employer responsibilities and agency enforcement under the Act. The final regulation’s effective date is less than one month away – June 18, 2024. Given that the PWFA is one of the biggest leave law developments in recent memory and is still quite green (the law has been in effect for less than a year), it’s important for employers to understand how the final regulation impacts their organization and employees.
In this episode, host Josh S...
2024-05-2321 min
Careers and the Business of LawEp. 21 - Meet Stephen Poor, Chair Emeritus of Seyfarth Shaw LLPIn episode 21 of Careers in the Business of Law, Stephen Poor talks with David about the long arc of technological change in law, the evolving technical skill sets as well as perennial soft skills, and the growth of the strength of access to justice initiatives such as The Bail Project and the Filing Fair project. They also talk Mississippi Delta blues. Today's guest is Stephen Poor. As Chair Emeritus of Seyfarth Shaw, a global law firm, Stephen Poor has significantly contributed to legal innovation, particularly through leading SeyfarthLabs, the firm's R&D arm...
2024-04-0924 minCareers and the Business of LawEp. 21 - Meet Stephen Poor, Chair Emeritus of Seyfarth Shaw LLPIn episode 21 of Careers in the Business of Law, Stephen Poor talks with David about the long arc of technological change in law, the evolving technical skill sets as well as perennial soft skills, and the growth of the strength of access to justice initiatives such as The Bail Project and the Filing Fair project. They also talk Mississippi Delta blues. Today's guest is Stephen Poor. As Chair Emeritus of Seyfarth Shaw, a global law firm, Stephen Poor has significantly contributed to legal innovation, particularly through leading SeyfarthLabs, the firm's R&D arm...
2024-04-0924 minThe Property LineOpportunity in Distress (Market Survey Takeaways)In Seyfarth’s 9th annual Real Estate Market Sentiment Survey, executives across the commercial real estate sector weigh in on their top concerns and investment priorities as they navigate a delicate balance between hope and caution, mindful of impacts stemming from potential rate adjustments, persistent scarcity in debt financing, the looming specter of an economic slowdown, new workplace norms, and a lack of consensus in real estate valuations.
In this episode, Ron Gart and James O’Brien join Eric Greenberg to discuss what they found to be most revealing from the results.
2024-03-2515 minThe Property LineLet There Be Light? Converting Offices to ResidencesAs the trend of working from home solidifies and the number of office vacancies continues to rise, many office building owners are looking for alternative uses for their properties. While converting those buildings to residential spaces could reinvigorate central business districts and help ease the housing crunch, there’s no straight line to success.
In this episode, Neil Weisbard, a partner at Seyfarth focused on zoning and land use, joins Eric Greenberg and James O’Brien to discuss a few key obstacles, potential workarounds, and where affordable housing requirements come into play.
2024-02-2714 minThe Property LineLet’s Get this Project StartedThe development and construction of a new real estate project can be a long and winding road, with many traps for the unwary along the way. Having an experienced real estate attorney to quarterback the process from site selection through to completion and delivery can help owners and developers save time and money and avoid headaches.
In this episode, Jami Balint and Catherine Burns, co-chairs of Seyfarth’s Real Estate Development practice group, join hosts James O’Brien and Eric Greenberg to discuss letters of intent, feasibility considerations, zoning and permitting, and how to efficiently manage the real estate development proc
2024-01-2917 minThe Property LineLoan Voyage: Navigating Loan Portfolio AcquisitionsAs lenders continue to sell sub- and non-performing loans in today’s market, buyers should consider important legal, financial, and commercial analyses to avoid “buyer’s remorse.” Whether a single loan or a portfolio, reviewing loan documentation, examining security measures, verifying the status of original notes, assessing lender transfer restrictions, navigating relevant regulations, and ensuring compliance with usury laws, among other best practices, can help distinguish which prospective purchases have the highest potential for profitability.
In this episode, Bill Hanlon, partner in Seyfarth’s Bankruptcy & Restructuring practice group, joins Dan Evans and Jay Wardlaw to share insights on a risk-averse course of...
2024-01-0810 minThe Property LineAI and the Future of Client Service in Real EstateArtificial intelligence and large language models have had an impact on many industries during the past year, including commercial real estate. Despite lingering concerns about data confidentiality and AI hallucinations, among other things, this new technology has showcased remarkable potential to streamline transactions when used with proper oversight. As real estate professionals and their attorneys navigate the evolving AI landscape, collaboration, experimentation, and creativity will be pivotal to harnessing the full spectrum of benefits.
In this episode, Tamaron Houston, partner in Seyfarth’s Real Estate department, and Byong Kim, senior director of Technology Innovations at Seyfarth, join Eric Greenberg and Ja...
2023-12-1815 min
Pioneers and PathfindersUnlocking AI's Potential in Lawyer DevelopmentThis year, our virtual roundtable series has explored the implications of generative AI and natural language processing models in the legal industry. Our first roundtable covered the risks and benefits of generative AI, while the second addressed the AI technology landscape and implementation strategies. Now, in our third installment, our esteemed panel—Lorie Almon, Chair and Partner of Seyfarth Shaw LLP; Anusia Gillespie, Chief Strategy Officer at SkillBurst Interactive; Jennifer Leonard, Founder of Creative Lawyers and Adjunct Professor at the University of Pennsylvania Law School; and Andrew Perlman, Dean and Professor of Law at Suffolk University Law School—focused on lawy...
2023-12-1358 minPolicy MattersEpisode 41: Immigration Insights: Unpacking H-1B and H-2A/H-2B RegulationsOn this episode of the Policy Matters Podcast, Seyfarth partner and former Director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Leon Rodriguez, delves into the ever-evolving landscape of U.S. immigration regulations, focusing on the H-1B, H-2A, and H-2B visa classifications. Discover the proposed regulations’ latest requirements and how these changes might impact skilled professionals seeking work opportunities in the United States. Also addressed are stakeholder concerns, the caps for these programs, and potential exceptions to these limits. Tune in for an exploration of these crucial updates that promise to reshape the immigration experience.
2023-11-0311 minTake It or Leave ItEpisode 24: Accommodations Under the New Pregnant Workers Fairness ActOn this episode of the Take It or Leave It Podcast, Seyfarth attorneys Josh Seidman and Debbie Caplan discuss the new Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) and its implications on employers and employees alike. Join them as they highlight details about this new accommodation mandate for pregnant individuals, how it overlaps with and differs from the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), open questions under the PWFA, and practical considerations for employers during the early stages of the PWFA.
2023-07-2829 minPolicy MattersEpisode 40: Under the Magnifying Glass: Congressional Probes on Labor & Employment InitiativesOn this episode of the Policy Matters Podcast, Seyfarth attorneys Leon Rodriguez and Scott Hecker share strategies for responding to congressional invitations to provide information and discuss hot Labor & Employment topics Congress has been investigating lately. Tune in to hear the latest.
2023-07-2711 minPolicy MattersEpisode 39: Wage & Hour Division’s Resource Challenges Impacting Enforcement, RulemakingOn this episode of the Policy Matters Podcast, Seyfarth attorneys Scott Hecker and Ariel Fenster discuss the U.S. DOL Wage and Hour Division’s (“WHD”) resource limitations, and how those are impacting WHD priorities, like child labor law investigations and various significant rulemakings. The low number of investigators leads to high stress and low morale for those remaining, and WHD workers may feel overburdened and under-resourced. Join Scott and Ariel as they share their thoughts on these interesting developments, including how employers may be affected by these issues.
2023-06-3013 minPioneers and PathfindersNavigating Risks, Benefits, and Ethical Considerations in the Age of AIToday's episode will be an encore presentation of our inaugural session for the Pioneers and Pathfinders Virtual Roundtable Series. Last Wednesday, host Steve Poor had a live and lively discussion with four legal industry experts and thought leaders on the topic “Navigating Risks, Benefits, and Ethical Considerations in the Age of AI,” which focused on generative AI and the implications for the legal industry. These thought leaders—Kiran Mallavarapu, Executive Vice President and Senior Manager of Legal Strategic Services at Liberty Mutual Insurance; D. Joseph Piech, Senior Loss Prevention Counsel at ALAS; Lori Roeser, Partner and General Counsel at Seyfarth Shaw L...
2023-06-281h 02
Take It or Leave ItEpisode 20: New Opportunities: A Look Ahead to What’s on the HorizonIn a bittersweet 20th episode, we wish a fond farewell to cohost Meg Toth as she moves on from Seyfarth. We celebrate her part in getting Take It Or Leave It off the ground, revisit some of her favorite moments from the podcast, and get her predictions on upcoming paid leave hotspots. Take It or Leave It podcast will keep running, but please join Josh Seidman as we look ahead to what’s coming in paid leave and toast Meg and her new role.
2023-04-1011 min
The Property Line2023 – A Year of Opportunity?In Seyfarth’s 8th Annual Real Estate Market Sentiment Survey, executives across the commercial real estate sector shed light on their top concerns and investment priorities for 2023. Though many industry media outlets remain focused on high inflation rates and a potential decline in economic activity, survey respondents were cautiously optimistic about developing opportunities in the coming months.
In this episode, Ron Gart and James O’Brien join Eric Greenberg to discuss what they found to be most revealing from this year’s survey and what the results indicate for the CRE industry in context of the economy’s current state.
2023-03-1615 min
Policy MattersEpisode 36: Spotlight on the NJ Temporary Workers’ Bill of RightsAlthough we typically focus on federal policy in this podcast, in a nod to our system of federalism, this episode takes a look into policy on the state level, specifically the sweeping New Jersey Temporary Workers’ Bill of Rights. This new law carries a host of new requirements for staffing firms and employers, and could set a precedent for similar policies in other states, and eventually, Congress. Seyfarth’s expert Nick Lussier joins host Scott Mallery to discuss the details of what the new law entails and what it means for clients, including the practical difficulties of complying with the same
2023-03-0609 minTake It or Leave ItEpisode 18: Illinois About to Join the Paid Leave Patchwork With New “Any Reason” Paid Leave LawIllinois is about to become one of three states with a mandatory paid leave law, requiring employers to provide employees with paid leave that can be used for any reason -- joining the nationwide mosaic of leave laws and creating potential headaches for employers. One of Seyfarth’s resident paid leave experts Gillian Lepore joins hosts Joshua Seidman and Meg Toth to examine the details of the new Illinois paid leave law, how this new law will fit in with the current paid leave landscape and how it compares to other similar paid leave laws.
2023-03-0612 minPolicy MattersEpisode 34: President’s Second Nominee For Wage And Hour Administrator Stuck In Committee…AgainOn this episode of the Policy Matters Podcast, Seyfarth Senior Counsel Scott Hecker and Counsel Scott Mallery discuss the Senate HELP Committee’s recent inability to advance U.S. DOL Wage and Hour Administrator nominee Jessica Looman out of committee, this time due to a procedural hiccup that will likely be remedied. The Scotts discuss what this means for Looman’s nomination specifically, as well as the general implications for Article I and Article III nominations during this Congressional term.
2023-02-1712 minPolicy MattersEpisode 31: Administration Border Measures Will Result in Significant Increased Worker AvailabilityOn this episode of Policy Matters Podcast, Seyfarth Partner Leon Rodriguez discusses the Biden Administration’s recent announcements on the SW border. Leon discusses the number of enforcement measures to increase security at the border, measures to expand legal pathways for safe orderly and humane migration, while also providing guidance for employers who wish to sponsor asylum seeking migrants in various industries.
2023-02-0207 minTake It or Leave ItEpisode 16: What Are You Doing New Year’s Leave? Nationwide Leave Developments Year End Wrap UpWith the New Year upon us comes a bevy of new leave laws and trends on the horizon, and the opportunity to reflect on all the happenings of 2022. Throughout 2022, we covered developments across the leave space and now it’s time to tie it all together. During this final 2022 episode of “Take It or Leave It,” Meg Toth and Josh Seidman are joined by their Seyfarth Labor & Employment colleague, Renate Walker, who takes us coast to coast to discuss 2022’s trends in leave laws, what these changes looked like in 2022 in a variety of leave topics, including paid sick, COVID emergenc...
2022-12-2919 minTake It or Leave ItEpisode 15: California Dreaming of Leave Laws - 2022 Reflections and 2023 ConsiderationsWith 2022 drawing to a rapid close, it is important to remember that California laws are unique and ever-changing, especially in the leave of absence management and accommodation world. Staying on trend, we saw many changes in California leave laws in 2022 and will likely see more in 2023. During this episode of “Take It or Leave It,” Meg Toth and Josh Seidman are joined by their California Seyfarth Labor & Employment partner, Ann Marie Zaletel, to discuss trends appearing in California leave laws, noteworthy developments in 2022, including on paid sick, COVID emergency, public health emergency, family medical, and bereavement leave, and what California empl...
2022-12-2222 minPolicy MattersEpisode 30: Mid-Term Elections Review Part 2As the dust settles following the 2022 Mid-Terms, including the Senate run-off in Georgia, we now have a clearer picture of the new Congress’s composition and what its make-up means for the 2023 Congressional session. In this episode of the Policy Matters Podcast, Seyfarth’s Government Policy gurus - Leon Rodriguez, Scott Hecker, and Scott Mallery - discuss how the chambers’ party alignments will impact key Labor and Employment issues, nominations and appointments, and policy priorities.
2022-12-1614 min
Policy MattersEpisode 29: Mid-Term Elections ReviewAmericans recently went to the polls (or to ballot drop boxes) to cast their votes in the 2022 Mid-Terms. Following the November 8 elections, Congress’s exact composition remains up in the air and may remain so until the dust settles on Georgia’s December 6 Senate runoff between Sen. Raphael Warnock and challenger Herschel Walker. In the meantime, Seyfarth’s Government Policy wonks - Leon Rodriguez, Scott Hecker, and Scott Mallery - engage in a free-flowing discussion on what narrowly divided government could mean for Labor & Employment issues, judicial nominations, other Executive Branch appointments, and agencies’ rulemaking activities.
2022-11-1119 min
Take It or Leave ItEpisode 14: Time Off to VoteWith midterm elections in full force and voting to begin this week, it is important for employers to understand state and local voting leave laws that require time off to vote, including how much time must be provided, when the time must be provided, whether it must be paid, any notice and documentation requirements and possible approaches for nationwide compliance.
During this episode of “Take It or Leave It,” Meg Toth is joined by Seyfarth Labor & Employment partner, Sara Fowler, to discuss employers’ obligations for providing time off to employees for voting, how these requirement vary state-to-state, and what employers should...
2022-11-0707 minPolicy MattersEpisode 27: Independent Contractor Classification: An Uneven Analytical RoadThe classification of workers as either independent contractors or employees has been a nationally salient issue for decades, but especially so since the explosion of the so-called gig economy. Until January 6, 2021, the fair labor standards act did not provide a regulatory definition of what constitutes an independent contractor that is not subject to various federal employment laws. On that date, the DOL issued its final rule on “Employee or Independent Contractor Classification,” which for provided a more consistent analysis making the proper classification of a worker as an independent contractor more predictable under the FLSA. And predictability is typically good for...
2022-08-1924 min
The Property LineBankruptcy 101 for Real Estate ProfessionalsWith uncertainties regarding the economy, interest rates rising, the cost of real estate development soaring, and financial distress resulting from the pandemic weighing heavy on many, real estate investors and users may find themselves in financial distress and exploring bankruptcy as a necessary step. In this episode, we offer a primer on some of the more common bankruptcy issues faced by those in the real estate industry.
Ryan Pinkston, a bankruptcy specialist in Seyfarth’s Litigation department, joins hosts James O’Brien and Eric Greenberg to discuss what happens to unexpired leases in bankruptcy, why parties to a lease may want...
2022-07-2817 minThe Property LineESG and Real Estate: A Value PropositionEnvironmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues are becoming increasingly important to real estate investors. With more media coverage of the environmental and social issues affecting society, there is greater awareness of the need to address sustainability and social impacts in real estate investment strategies. In this episode, Seyfarth partners Ameena Majid and Rebecca Davis join hosts James O’Brien and Eric Greenberg to provide an overview of ESG, explore current ESG trends, and explain how ESG is an enterprise-wide financial value proposition.
2022-07-0114 minTake It or Leave ItEpisode 11: Managing Leaves and Accommodations for Employees Working Under a U.S. Work VisaAn employee’s visa status is not usually top of mind for employers when managing leaves of absence and accommodations, but for many important reasons, it should not be overlooked, as it may pose some significant risks both for the employee and the employer if not handled correctly.
During this episode of “Take It or Leave It,” co-hosts Josh Seidman and Meg Toth are joined by their colleague and expert guest, Angelo Paparelli, from Seyfarth Shaw LLP’s Los Angeles Office, to discuss how a leave of absence or accommodation could impact an employee’s visa status. Specific topics include: an overvie...
2022-07-0124 minTake It or Leave ItEpisode 10: ADA and FMLA Back to Basics and BeyondUnderstanding leaves of absence and accommodations in the United States generally begins with the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). While both laws have been around since the early-1990s, their many nuances and moving parts, as well as novel external factors such as COVID-19, continue to require careful navigation by even the most seasoned attorneys, benefits professionals and human resources teams.
During this episode of “Take It or Leave It,” co-hosts Josh Seidman and Meg Toth are joined by their colleague and expert guest, Bill Perkins, from Seyfarth Shaw LLP’s New York O...
2022-06-0932 min
3Sixty Insights HRTechChat#HRTechChat with retrain.ai and Seyfarth Shaw LLPIsabelle Bichler is co-founder and chief operating officer of retrain.ai. An employment litigation attorney, Robert T. Szyba is a partner at Seyfarth Shaw LLP. Both are well-qualified to discuss the at once inescapable and intriguing trends at the intersection of AI and human capital management, and they joined us as my guests for this episode of the #HRTechChat video podcast.
retrain.ai is the creator of AI-based self-evolving ontologies that unearth the relationships at the intersection of an organization's existing and future roles, its people, and their hard, soft and transferable skills. During the chat, Bichler provided an impassioned...
2022-05-0240 minTake It or Leave ItEpisode 8: COVID-19 Paid Leave MandatesEmployers have now been dealing with the realities and impact of COVID-19 for two years. A major part of that reality for many companies has been and continues to be tracking, navigating, and complying with the nation’s ever-changing COVID-19 paid leave landscape.
During this episode of “Take It or Leave It,” co-hosts Josh Seidman and Meg Toth are joined by their colleague and expert guest, Elizabeth Levy, from Seyfarth Shaw LLP’s Los Angeles Century City Office, to discuss many important issues involving COVID-19 paid leave mandates that have been enacted during the pandemic. Specific topics include an overview of the i...
2022-04-2036 minThe Property LineAnnual Real Estate Market Sentiment Survey Indicates Optimism for 2022 Despite Economic ChallengesThe commercial real estate (CRE) executives who responded to Seyfarth’s recently released 7th annual Real Estate Market Sentiment Survey are optimistic about investment opportunities in 2022 despite inflation and rising costs.
In this episode, real estate partners James O’Brien, Christa Dommers, and Ron Gart discuss key sentiments from this year’s survey, including:
• a generally optimistic outlook for the CRE industry in 2022, notwithstanding unease over deteriorating fundamentals;
• concern over the impact of the work-from-home trend on company culture; and
• skepticism about investing in the suburbs despite predicting a rough time ahead for the downtown office market.
Access the 2022 Real Estate Marke...
2022-03-1114 minTake It or Leave ItEpisode 6: Best Practices and Legal Considerations for Unlimited Paid Time Off Policies in the U.S.During the last episode of “Take It or Leave It” we discussed the concept of “Unlimited” paid time off (PTO) for employees at an international level. For this episode, we are back for the second part of this two-part mini-series to explore “unlimited” PTO policies for U.S. employees.
Co-hosts Josh Seidman and Meg Toth are joined by their colleague and expert employment counselor and advisor, Chelsea Mesa, from Seyfarth Shaw LLP’s Los Angeles Office, to discuss important legal considerations and best practices for U.S. employers considering (or currently administering) an “unlimited” PTO program. Specifically, Chelsea discusses the benefits and drawb...
2022-03-0820 minPolicy MattersEpisode 24: Employment Arbitration: New Federal Law & Impact On Employer Arbitration AgreementsOn March 3, 2022, President Biden signed H.R. 4445, marking the first time in a long time that our elected representatives in Washington, D.C. have passed a piece of significant legislation through regular order. Seyfarth’s employment lawyers Scott Mallery and Rob Szyba discuss the newly-enacted H.R. 4445, the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act of 2021. Rob and Scott explore the policies and backdrop that drove this legislation, potential impacts of the enactment of H.R. 4445, and what this means for employers with arbitration programs. Beyond just what the bill prohibits, Rob and Scott discuss potential ambiguities th...
2022-03-0716 minThe Property LineCRE Opinion Letter Basics for Non-AttorneysA high-level understanding of opinion letters is a useful tool for anyone working in commercial real estate (CRE)—including businesspeople and next generation attorneys. Guest hosts Daniel Evans and Jay Wardlaw, co-chairs of Seyfarth’s Real Estate Finance practice, are joined by Cameron Weil, counsel in Seyfarth’s Real Estate department, to discuss the foundational basics of delivering opinion letters to lenders in CRE transactions, including:
• What are opinion letters?
• Who provides the opinion letters for a given transaction and to whom are they addressed?
• What are the main types of opinion letters typically delivered in connection with an ordinary CRE finance...
2022-02-2813 minThe Property LineCurrent Trends and Challenges in Industrial Real Estate TransactionsThe industrial real estate market has experienced high demand during the COVID-19 pandemic and will continue to hold strong as the development of e-commerce, warehouse, and logistics facilities remains robust. While the accelerated buildout of industrial facilities is expected to alleviate supply pressure over the next year, markets remain tight and challenges with shortages of materials, supply chain disruptions, and congestion persist.
Jami Balint and Katie Yuen, partners in Seyfarth’s Real Estate department, join hosts James O’Brien and Eric Greenberg to discuss trends in industrial real estate transactions and development, including:
• increased appetite for zoning and permitting risks to loc...
2022-02-2217 minTake It or Leave ItEpisode 5: Beyond the US — International Unlimited Paid Time Off Considerations“Unlimited” paid time off (PTO) policies are contemplated by many U.S. employers as a way of providing a generous leave benefit to certain groups of employees, while also simplifying leave administration related to those employees. There are pros and cons to such policies at a domestic level, especially when state and local leave mandates enter the equation. But how do “unlimited” PTO policies fare internationally? Where a business maintains such a policy for members of its U.S. workforce, does it make sense to also roll it out to members of its international workforce?
During this episode of “Take It or Leav...
2022-02-1733 minPolicy MattersEpisode 23: How COVID-19 Liability Shields Have Expired and Developed During the COVID LoopIn this episode, Scott Mallery, Counsel in the Labor & Employment department of Seyfarth’s Sacramento, CA office, and Honore Hishamunda, Senior Associate in the Labor & Employment department of Seyfarth’s Atlanta office, discuss the current debate surrounding the construction of liability shields to designed protect employers against claims by employees that COVID-19 was contracted at the workplace.
Honore and Scott explore the liability shields that were constructed and implemented closer to the beginning of the pandemic, shields that are either set to expire or have expired (which in itself is indicative of how long we have been stuck in this pand...
2022-02-0411 minTake It or Leave ItEpisode 4: Leaves, Accommodations and Important Tax Considerations for Remote WorkforcesOver the last two years, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the way people work has changed drastically and the number of employers permanently adopting remote and/or hybrid work policies is continuing to grow. Many forward-thinking employers who have adopted or considered remote or hybrid work policies are encountering a host of new, complex issues related to leaves and accommodations and grappling with complicated tax considerations.
During this episode of “Take It or Leave It,” co-hosts Josh Seidman and Meg Toth are joined by two expert guests, Tracy Billows, a labor and employment lawyer and co-Managing Partner of Seyf...
2022-02-0139 min
The Building Community PodcastKeeping In Touch | Seyfarth Shaw LLP, with Danya RayDanya Ray is the Alumni Relations Manager at Seyfarth Shaw LLP, an international law firm with 17 offices across the globe. Danya has set up alumni programs for universities, the tech industry, and law firms. And she has proved that alumni can be an organization’s biggest brand advocates, support business development, and immensely contribute to organizations as boomerang hires. In this episode, Danya shares how to go about building a corporate alumni program from scratch, and gives insight into ways to weave ‘alumni’ into an organization’s DNA. She reve...
2021-12-2131 minThe Property LineYear in Review – Enduring Trends from 2021The COVID-19 pandemic emerged in 2020, but its impact was felt throughout 2021. The real estate industry faced unprecedented challenges this year, including rapid shifts in demand and changing expectations, but the real estate markets remained surprisingly buoyant with high levels of investment activity. In this episode of the Property Line, we examine key real estate trends that emerged in 2021, focusing on those that will endure into 2022 and beyond. Hosts James O’Brien and Eric Greenberg, co-chairs of Seyfarth’s Real Estate Leasing practice, discuss the renewed emphasis on flexibility in the use of real estate, the impact of the work from home...
2021-12-2014 minTake It or Leave ItIntroduction: Take It or Leave It PodcastTake It or Leave It is the only law firm podcast focused exclusively on workplace leaves, absence management, and accommodations. Hosts Meg Toth and Josh Seidman, Employment attorneys and co-leaders of Seyfarth’s Leaves of Absence Management and Accommodations team, explore the latest legal developments, forecast new laws, identify workplace trends, and offer practical, business-oriented considerations within the leave, absence management, and accommodations space.
2021-11-3000 min
Policy MattersEpisode 22: Student-Athletes Running into the NLRBIn this episode, Scott Mallery, Counsel in the Labor and Employment Department of Seyfarth’s Sacramento office, and Chuck Guzak, Associate in the Labor and Employment Department of Seyfarth’s Washington, DC office, discuss the recent memorandum released by NLRB General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo regarding her position that certain college athletes are employees under the National Labor Relations Act.
With the recent changes in NCAA rules and state laws on athletes’ ability to profit off of their names, images, and likenesses as a backdrop, the Policy Matters podcast team discusses the legal history of colleges and universities under the National Labor...
2021-10-2212 min
Point Two L&E NationA Tribute to David Kadue, Architect of Seyfarth's California Peculiarities PublicationWhen employers across America face a labor or employment law issue on the Left Coast, a phrase they often hear is, “California it’s different.” For better or worse, California is different. California is also important, as the nation’s most populous state, the world’s fifth-largest economy, and a notorious trend-setter in employment law. And California’s influence is not limited to just its sister states. For the last 20+ years, Seyfarth's California Peculiarities publication has provided employers in-depth analysis on just what makes California labor and employment law so peculiar. Behind this extraordinary publication is David Kadue, a partner in Seyfarth’...
2021-09-2016 min
Policy MattersEpisode 20: Labor Pains - Vaccine Mandates Among Unionized WorkforcesIn this episode, Scott Hecker, Senior Counsel in the Labor & Employment department of Seyfarth’s Washington, DC office, and Ashley Cano, Partner in the Labor & Employment department of Seyfarth’s Chicago office, discuss labor law issues surrounding vaccine mandates.
Ashley and Scott continue the Podcast’s exploration of potential ramifications from a fully-approved COVID-19 vaccine, and they identify what union (and non-union) employers should keep in mind when considering vaccine mandates. While Ashley and Scott speak to the varied responses unions have had to vaccination requirements, they note one fairly consistent Labor priority: maintaining collective bargaining power.
2021-09-0810 minPolicy MattersEpisode 19: Vaccination Celebration! OSHA Implications for Vaccine ProgramsIn this episode, Scott Hecker, Senior Counsel in the Labor & Employment department of Seyfarth’s Washington, DC office, and Adam Young, Partner in the Labor & Employment department of Seyfarth’s Chicago office, discuss workplace safety issues surrounding vaccine mandates.
Adam and Scott explore the potential impacts of a fully-approved COVID-19 vaccine, and how employers, including the federal government, are approaching vaccine requirements. Beyond vaccines, Adam and Scott lay out additional risk mitigation protocols employers can consider to limit OSHA enforcement risks, including in the healthcare sector (which is subject to OSHA’s COVID-19 emergency temporary standard) and under OSHA’s COVID-19...
2021-09-0113 min
The Property LineWhen are Real Estate Transactions Subject to National Security Review?The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) has been in existence since 1975, but it was not until February 2020 that CFIUS adopted regulations specifically targeting the real estate industry. CFIUS now has the express power to review standalone real estate leases, purchases, sales, and other property transactions that are not part of a larger merger or acquisition. Under certain circumstances, CFIUS can delay, alter, or unwind real estate transactions. In this episode, Gordon Peery, chair of Seyfarth’s Derivatives practice group, joins hosts Eric Greenberg and James O’Brien to discuss the types of real estate transactions that will...
2021-08-0915 min
Policy MattersEpisode 17: Secretary Walsh Continues to Fill his DOL Dance CardIn this episode, Scott Hecker, Senior Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Washington, DC office, and Scott Mallery, Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Sacramento office, discuss the U.S. DOL nominations of Doug Parker to serve as Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health and David Weil to return to his prior position as Wage and Hour Division Administrator, as well has how the confirmations of both Julie Su and Seema Nanda could increase the velocity of change at the DOL.
With increased enforcement at the forefront of the Depa...
2021-07-2215 min
Policy MattersEpisode 16 Part 2: Cannabis Legalization and the Effect on the L&E WorldIn this two-part episode, Scott Mallery, Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Sacramento office, Jennifer Mora, Senior Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s San Francisco office, and Stanley Jutkowitz, Senior Counsel in the Corporate and Real Estate Departments of Seyfarth’s Washington, DC office, discuss the various bills pending before Congress that would impact the legalization of both adult use and medical cannabis, as well as a discussion of how legalization of cannabis across certain states has affected employers.
In part one, Scott and Jennifer discuss marijuana legislation at the state level, and ho...
2021-07-1510 minPolicy MattersEpisode 16 Part 1: Cannabis Legalization and the Effect on the L&E WorldIn this two-part episode, Scott Mallery, Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Sacramento office, Jennifer Mora, Senior Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s San Francisco office, and Stanley Jutkowitz, Senior Counsel in the Corporate and Real Estate Departments of Seyfarth’s Washington, DC office, discuss the various bills pending before Congress that would impact the legalization of both adult use and medical cannabis, as well as a discussion of how legalization of cannabis across certain states has affected employers.
In part one, Scott and Jennifer discuss marijuana legislation at the state level, and ho...
2021-07-1512 min
The Property LineThe Continuing Evolution of COVID-19 Retail Rent Decisions and the Impact on Leasing (Part 1)As retailers and restaurants begin to open doors and welcome back customers, the lawsuits between landlords and tenants that started during the pandemic are still working their way through the court system. Although most decisions so far have skewed toward landlords, there have been a few tenant-friendly outliers. Elizabeth Schrero, co-chair of Seyfarth’s Real Estate Litigation practice group, joins hosts Eric Greenberg and James O’Brien to discuss recent notable court decisions, including some that address tenant claims that go beyond frustration of purpose, impossibility, and other common law doctrines.
2021-07-1216 min
The Property LineFuture of Franchising in the Retail/Restaurant SpaceBusiness disruption was a common theme in 2020, particularly for franchisors in the retail/restaurant space. While these companies were forced to confront unprecedented challenges brought on by the pandemic, there’s a whole new set of hurdles ahead for the franchisor/franchisee relationship. As the economy reopens, consumer patterns and demographics have shifted and work from home trends have affected many urban retailers and restaurant chains. Andrew Sherman, Corporate partner and co-chair of Seyfarth’s Franchise & Distribution practice group, and Daniel Blumenthal, Corporate counsel, join hosts James O’Brien and Eric Greenberg to discuss how retail/restaurant spaces are evolving to rem...
2021-06-2116 minThe Property LineBreaking Down Federal Relief for Tenants and LandlordsOver the last few months, two large rescue packages—The Consolidated Appropriations Act and the American Rescue Plan Act—have been enacted by Congress in order to help the country push through the COVID-19 pandemic. In this episode, Paul Mattingly, partner and chair of Seyfarth’s Real Estate department, and Thomas Michaelides, Real Estate associate, join hosts James O’Brien and Eric Greenberg to examine measures with direct impact on the real estate industry: the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and the Homeowner Assistance Fund.
2021-05-2411 min
Policy MattersEpisode 13: Filling out the DOL Roster: Deputy Secretary and Solicitor Nominees on TapIn this episode, Scott Hecker, Senior Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Washington, DC office, and Scott Mallery, Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Sacramento office, discuss the nominations of Julie Su for Deputy Secretary of Labor and Seema Nanda as Solicitor of Labor.
Marty Walsh was sworn in as the 29th U.S. Secretary of Labor on March 23, 2021. Now, the Biden Administration must turn its attention to bringing in other leadership personnel to support the DOL’s work. Deputy Secretary and Solicitor are the second- and third-ranking officials in the Department, and ar...
2021-04-0712 minThe Property LineA Wake Up Call For Commercial Landlords: Caffé Nero and Frustration of PurposeOld common law doctrines are not dormant and may enable tenants to avoid the payment of rent due to government shutdown orders during the pandemic. As more cases are tried, a jurisprudence regarding these doctrines and their applicability to the pandemic is being developed. In this episode, Mark Johnson, partner and co-chair of Seyfarth’s Real Estate Litigation practice, joins hosts James O’Brien and Eric Greenberg to discuss frustration of purpose and force majeure as applied by the court in UMNV 205-207 Newbury LLC v. Caffé Nero Americas Inc., where a landlord sued its retail tenant for damages in order...
2021-04-0517 minThe Property LineWhat Makes Data Center Deals Different?Data centers are unique assets with specialized security, communications, cooling, and power needs. Data center leases are structured to address these needs and include rental and other provisions that differ from more conventional leases.
In this episode, Mike Rechtin, chair of Seyfarth’s Data Center Services practice, and Michael Merar, a Real Estate partner with significant data center experience, join hosts James O’Brien and Eric Greenberg to dissect these differences and walk through the structure of a data center leasing transaction, including details such as rent, capital costs, critical infrastructure redundancy, electricity pass throughs, and more.
2021-03-2916 minThe Property LineState of the Data Center Market & the Impacts of COVID-19Over the past few years, cloud-based data storage and data center development has grown rapidly. The current pandemic has further stimulated the demand for data storage as more and more tasks are being done virtually, rather than in-person.
Mike Rechtin, chair of Seyfarth’s Data Center Services practice, and Michael Merar, a Real Estate partner with significant data center experience, join hosts James O’Brien and Eric Greenberg to discuss the basics of data centers, how companies manage their data storage in data centers and in the cloud, and how the data center market fared during COVID-19.
2021-03-2215 minPolicy MattersEpisode 12 Part 2: Post-PAID Program, What’s a Good-Faith Employer to do?In this two-part episode, Kevin Young, Partner in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Atlanta office, and Scott Hecker, Senior Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Washington, DC office, discuss the impact on employers of the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division’s decision to end PAID, a self-audit program that allowed good-faith employers to resolve potential minimum wage and overtime mistakes and allowed employees to receive back wage payments promptly.
In part two, Scott and Kevin discuss what an employer can do now that PAID has been ended and what the ch...
2021-03-1112 minPolicy MattersEpisode 12 Part 1: Post-PAID Program, What’s a Good-Faith Employer to do?In this two-part episode, Kevin Young, Partner in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Atlanta office, and Scott Hecker, Senior Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Washington, DC office, discuss the impact on employers of the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division’s decision to end PAID, a self-audit program that allowed good-faith employers to resolve potential minimum wage and overtime mistakes and allowed employees to receive back wage payments promptly.
In part one, Scott and Kevin discuss the background of the PAID program and the problems it was trying to solve.
2021-03-1108 minPolicy MattersEpisode 11: The Manchin Principle: Fissures in the Democratic Caucus Threaten Biden’s AgendaIn this episode, Scott Hecker, Senior Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Washington, DC office, and Scott Mallery, Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Sacramento office, discuss the impact of moderate Democratic senators’ independence on President Biden’s nominees and policy objectives.
Despite Democrats’ controlling the White House and both houses of Congress, it isn’t all smooth sailing for President Biden in implementing his policy priorities. Scott and Scott discuss what factors have slowed the anticipated velocity of change, what the evenly divided Senate means for some of the more contentious ideas in Pre...
2021-03-0212 min
The Property LineAnnual Real Estate Market Sentiment Survey Indicates Optimistic Outlook for 2021In Seyfarth’s recently released 6th annual Real Estate Market Sentiment Survey, commercial real estate executives weigh in on the outlook for the industry as it grapples with the lingering effects of the pandemic and a change in political power.
James O’Brien, Christine Kim, and Ronald Gart discuss the survey and its methodology, as well as some of this year’s key findings. Topics covered in this episode include:
- the real estate industry’s view of the new presidential administration;
- the real estate sectors expected to recover quickly from the pandemic; and
- the survey respondents’ generally optimistic...
2021-03-0117 minPolicy MattersEpisode 10: The PRO Act: What Is It, What’s In It, And Will It Pass?The Protecting the Right to Organize Act, known as the PRO Act, was first introduced in February 2020 but flew somewhat under the radar given the onset of the pandemic. On February 4, 2021, House Democrats reintroduced the PRO Act in essentially the same form.
In this episode, Scott Mallery, Counsel in Seyfarth’s Sacramento office, and Kyllan Kershaw, Partner in Seyfarth’s Atlanta office, discuss how the composition of government is much different for the recent reintroduction of the PRO Act, given the trifecta of democratic majorities in the House and Senate and a democratic president and vice president in the White Hous...
2021-02-2512 minThe Property LineS2E6. The State of Mezz in NY StateThe pandemic’s impact on real estate is well documented, but how have current events affected the less-publicized mezzanine loan market? How have courts addressed the New York mortgage foreclosure moratoria in the mezzanine loan context? What is clogging the equity of redemption and why is it important now? Seyfarth Real Estate partners Willard Moore and Megan Vallerie join to discuss all this and more.
2021-02-1614 minThe Property LineS2E5. Nuts and Bolts of Loan ModificationsIn today’s volatile market, commercial real estate loan modifications are an important tool to address loans that are, or may soon be, in default. They can also be valuable in connection with routine servicing requests. Seyfarth Real Estate partners Arren Goldman and Tobi Pinsky return to discuss:
- Initial steps for loan modifications and the importance of pre-negotiation agreements
- Obstacles that lenders and borrowers may face when modifying a loan, including costs, timing, and pandemic-related issues
- Key takeaways for when a loan modification does not work
2021-02-0815 minThe Property LineS2E4. Loan Modifications – Current Landscape and Sector TrendsCOVID-19 has impacted the world of commercial real estate finance in many unique ways. In this new environment, borrowers, guarantors, servicers, and lenders have been confronted with difficult decisions. Seyfarth Real Estate partners Arren Goldman and Tobi Pinsky join this episode for a discussion on:
- What’s happening in the market with respect to requests for relief and loan modifications
- How this downturn is different than the Great Recession from a loan servicing/workout perspective
- Ways troubled mortgage loans are being addressed within particular real estate sectors
2021-02-0117 minPolicy MattersEpisode 6: How California’s Controversial Worker Classification Test Could Affect Federal PolicyOften, what happens in California is a good bellwether for what could happen in the policy space on a federal level. And we believe worker classification is no different.
In this episode, Seyfarth Counsel Scott Mallery and Seyfarth Partner Eric Lloyd provide an overview of where the law on misclassification at the federal level stands today, the background and impact of AB 5 and AB 2257 in California, and insight into what we might see down the road from the Department of Labor, now under the Biden Administration.
2021-01-2913 min
COVID-19 and BeyondThe Risks of Remote Worker RelocationTo assist employers with one of the unanticipated challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Seyfarth Shaw published a remote worker relocation checklist, identifying potential risks raised by remote workers relocating with or without notice. In this podcast, Associate Brian Wadsworth further examines the issues that employers should be cognizant of and suggests potential steps to that employers should take to avoid risk. The episode also offers insight into potential scenarios employers may face as they continue to work around the challenges presented by their remote workforces.
2021-01-2511 minThe Property LineS2E3. Stepping Through the LIBOR Morass: Key Developments, Dates, and What’s NextUS dollar LIBOR (the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate) has been one of the most widely utilized reference rates in floating rate commercial real estate lending for more than 30 years. Following concerns pertaining to possible LIBOR manipulation, various regulatory bodies have called for the replacement of LIBOR with a different reference rate, which will affect trillions of dollars of contracts when it is effectuated. Seyfarth Real Estate partners Gordon Peery and Willard Moore join this episode to discuss:
- Is it actually happening this time?
- In preparation, what have lenders been doing?
- What does the crystal ball predict for...
2021-01-2511 minThe Property LineS2E1. Real Estate Finance State of the MarketWhile uncertainty due to COVID-19 continues to reverberate throughout the markets, certain sectors are on a path back to stability and a “new normal.” Jay Wardlaw and Daniel Evans, the co-chairs of Seyfarth’s Real Estate Finance practice, join to kick-off our next season and, in this episode, reflect on:
- Repercussions due to the pandemic’s effect on leasing
- Current state of the real estate finance market
- Forbearance and enforcement
2021-01-1116 minCOVID-19 and BeyondCOVID-19 Vaccine - A Third Fireside Chat with Dr. Nupe MehtaIn this podcast episode, Scott Hecker, Senior Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Washington, DC office, is again joined by Dr. Nupe Mehta, health care executive and clinician, to explore issues surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine.
The first batch of COVID-19 vaccinations is being deployed across the country, with healthcare providers at the front of the line to receive the vaccine. With two vaccines distributed under Emergency Use Authorizations, how can we achieve broad community buy in to effectively battle the pandemic with these new weapons at our disposal?
2021-01-0512 minThe Property LineSpecial Edition: Essential Election Takeaways for CRE and 2021 Outlook2020 has been marked by volatility and challenges to the economy. In this Special Edition episode, we discuss the impact of the recent election on commercial real estate and the 2021 outlook for the industry, including key takeaways highlighted by panelists from Jamestown Properties, BentallGreenOak, the Real Estate Roundtable, and the National Retail Federation during a recent Seyfarth webinar.
2020-12-2417 minCOVID-19 and BeyondTest, Trace, and Isolate - A Second Fireside Chat with Dr. Nupe MehtaIn this podcast episode, Scott Hecker, Senior Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Washington, DC office, is again joined by Dr. Nupe Mehta, health care executive and clinician, to explore issues surrounding tracing, testing, and isolating as response and prevention strategies for COVID-19.
With cases spiking and guidance frequently changing, communities need to continue their efforts to mitigate COVID-19’s spread. Case investigation, contact tracing, and supported isolation and quarantine are all part of the solution, but what hurdles must these strategies overcome to prove effective in battling the virus?
2020-12-1511 minThe Property LineS1E5. COVID-19 Liability Shield LegislationAs the pandemic rages on, retailers that are operating face the threat of negligence claims by customers and vendors alleging a failure by the retailers to protect them from the spread of the virus. Although congress has resisted liability shield legislation at the Federal level, a handful of states have enacted a variety of different liability shield laws aimed at protecting businesses against COVID-19 related claims. Rebecca Woods, a Seyfarth Litigation partner, returns this episode for a discussion on:
• The purpose of liability shield laws
• Limitations to, and compliance requirements for, liability shields
• The importance of CDC guidelines and established safety...
2020-11-3016 min
The Property LineS1E1. State of the Retail Leasing MarketSeason 1: Retail Leasing in the Pandemic
This multipart series explores the impact of COVID-19 on commercial leasing and examines new retail leasing issues that will likely live on well past the pandemic. The series is led by Eric Greenberg and James O’Brien, two Seyfarth real estate attorneys who handle commercial real estate issues for some of the nation’s largest retailers and landlords.
Episode 1: As the pandemic and its effects linger, it’s important for retailers and their landlords to be thinking about long-term solutions that will enable retailers to continue operating in an environment of depressed retail demand.
This e...
2020-11-2014 minCOVID-19 and BeyondCOVID-19 Face Masks and CoveringsCOVID-19 Face Masks and Coverings by Seyfarth Shaw LLP
2020-11-1607 minCOVID-19 and BeyondBackground Checks during COVID-19Court closures, state and local parameters, and continued cautionary re-opening while the pandemic continues have had an impact on background checks. HR professionals, recruiters and in-house employment attorneys must strike the balance between onboarding a candidate and risking litigation over a background check.
On this episode, Jennifer Mora, Senior Counsel and leading background expert at Seyfarth, summarizes how the Fair Credit Reporting Act applies to background checks, employers' options for compliance, and other practical considerations for clearing background checks during the pandemic.
2020-11-1606 minCOVID-19 and BeyondPart 1: Frequent Accommodation Requests: What's Legal and What's NotIn part one of this two part series, Dan Klein, Labor and Employment partner in Seyfarth's Boston office, summarizes the current legal landscape under federal law regarding those accommodation requests that are legally required and those that are not.
2020-11-1607 minCOVID-19 and BeyondPart 2: Frequent Accommodation Requests: What's Legal and What's NotIn part two of this two part series, Dan Klein, Labor and Employment partner in Seyfarth's Boston office, summarizes the current legal landscape under federal law regarding those accommodation requests that are legally required and those that are not.
2020-11-1608 minCOVID-19 and BeyondFuture of Health Care - A Fireside Chat with Dr. Nupe MehtaThe lack of a uniform federal response to the COVID-19 pandemic has left many employers in a difficult spot, as they scramble to stay up-to-date on mandates issued by various states, counties, and municipalities. Added to the mix are various liability shields that protect different industries, with different legal standards, and with different definitions of who’s covered. One industry at the top of the list for liability protection - and also for OSHA enforcement - is health care.
In this episode, Scott Hecker, Senior Counsel in the Labor and Employment department of Seyfarth’s Washington, DC office, talks to Dr...
2020-11-1607 minCOVID-19 and BeyondCOVID-19 Temperature and Screening Best PracticesHow will employees safely return to work, how will employers keep employees and customers safe from COVID-19, and what are employers required by law to do have been highly charged and sometimes highly politicized topics. This quick, under-10-minute podcast, Seyfarth partners Karla Grossenbacher and Ben Briggs, put aside those questions and addresses the “why” behind masks in the workplace, the “how” behind symptom and temperature screening, and the top questions employers need answered.
2020-11-1607 min
CEO Exclusive RadioJeff Cunningham of Seyfarth Shaw and Dr. Robert Willis of Foxcode, Inc.Jeff Cunningham / Seyfarth Shaw Mr. Cunningham, a partner in the Atlanta office of Seyfarth Shaw LLP and member of Seyfarth's Mergers & Acquisitions and Tax practice groups, serves as outside general counsel to many growing mid-sized businesses, and concentrates his practice in mergers and acquisitions, commercial transactions, and general corporate matters. He counsels clients--from entrepreneurs and […]
The post Jeff Cunningham of Seyfarth Shaw and Dr. Robert Willis of Foxcode, Inc. appeared first on Business RadioX ®.
2015-06-2300 min
CEO Exclusive RadioJeff Cunningham of Seyfarth Shaw and Dr. Robert Willis of Foxcode, Inc.Jeff Cunningham / Seyfarth Shaw Mr. Cunningham, a partner in the Atlanta office of Seyfarth Shaw LLP and member of Seyfarth's Mergers & Acquisitions and Tax practice groups, serves as outside general counsel to many growing mid-sized businesses, and concentrates his practice in mergers and acquisitions, commercial transactions, and general corporate matters. He counsels clients--from entrepreneurs and [...]
2015-06-2355 min