OK at Work

Join Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman as they discuss the critical topic of succession planning in this week's episode of OK at Work. Learn about the importance of standard operating procedures, timing, formalization, and seamless transitions to ensure business continuity when leaders or managers retire or move on. Discover how having a clear roadmap, well-timed exit strategies, a...

In this episode of OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the recent federal reclassification of marijuana and what it means for employers. They explore how these changes impact business policies, particularly in states where marijuana is legal for medical or recreational use. The conversation explores the differences in handling marijuana compared to other substance...

In the last OK at Work episode of 2025, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger, attorneys at Offit Kurman, discuss the upcoming legal challenges and trends for 2026. Focusing on the evolving impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI, they explore its implications across various legal areas, including privacy, employment law, and state regulations. They predict a significant focus on AI leg...

In this episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the concept of phantom equity and its role in incentive compensation. As year-end approaches, businesses evaluate bonuses and future incentives. Phantom equity, a form of compensation for executive-level employees, operates like actual equity without involving ownership or entanglements. It serves as...

In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the crucial steps employers need to take after concluding a workplace investigation. They explore practical and legal considerations when addressing findings of misconduct, retaliation, or policy violations, including remediation for affected employees and disciplinary actions. The conversatio...

In this episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the key considerations for employers during the holiday season. They emphasize that while holiday parties are a great time for employees to celebrate and have fun, they remain work events where workplace rules and behavioral standards still apply. They share practical tips on planning and executing t...

In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the importance of reviewing company policies and procedures as the year closes. With a focus on ensuring compliance and refreshing employee training, they emphasize the need for harassment and cybersecurity training, especially as flu season and holiday gatherings can lead to increased absente...

In this episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the importance of thoughtfully structured bonus plans for employees and executives. The discussion covers the goals behind bonus plans, such as motivation and retention, and emphasizes the importance of aligning these plans with organizational objectives for 2026. They highlight the need for clear an...

In this episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the importance of clear organizational structures and effective board governance. They highlight the need for well-defined roles and responsibilities within an organization, the significance of precise legal documents, and proactive policies and procedures. By addressing these elements, organizations...

Welcome to OK at Work.  Join hosts Russell Berger and Sarah Sawyer every week as they discuss current events and legal issues impacting business owners. From updates on the ever-changing employment law landscape to the risks and benefits of integrating AI into your workplace. Please be sure to like and subscribe to OK at Work wherever podcasts are found and stay up-to-date on issues and events tha...

In this episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss executive level compensation and employment agreements. They explain the significance of these agreements for both executives and companies, particularly in scenarios involving business marketability, sales, and investor interactions. Key considerations include restrictive covenants, non-competes, an...

In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the implications of using AI tools like ChatGPT in the workplace. They explore the benefits and risks, emphasizing the importance of understanding legal boundaries and the potential loss of privileged information. They also highlight the need for professional guidance in leveraging AI effectiv...

Join attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman in this episode of OK at Work as they discuss the intricacies of pre-litigation negotiations. Learn about the critical steps, strategies, and mindsets necessary for successfully resolving conflicts before escalating to litigation. Whether you're used to the negotiation process or new to it, this discussion will provide valuable insig...

Join attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman as they discuss preparing for economic uncertainty during government shutdowns. Learn critical insights for employers on managing workforce issues, ensuring cash flow for wages, and making strategic decisions during times of market and governmental volatility. This episode focuses on practical advice for business owners to navigate e...

Join Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger as they discuss Maryland's new online data privacy laws with expert guest Stephenie Yeung. Discover the key aspects of the Maryland Online Data Privacy Act, its implications for business owners, and essential steps to compliance. Learn about data minimization, sensitive data regulations, and the importance of updating internal policies and third-party agreement...

In this week's episode of OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger, attorneys at Offit Kurman, discuss the intricacies of cease and desist letters. They delve into when and why these letters are used, the practical realities of deploying them, and the importance of a case-specific analysis. The conversation highlights the strategic considerations necessary before sending a cease and desist lett...

Join Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger, attorneys at Offit Kurman, in this week's episode of OK at Work, as they discuss the challenges employers face when employees engage in misconduct that harms the business. Learn about the legal options available for dealing with issues ranging from negligence and embezzlement to reputational harm. Sarah and Russell provide insights on insurance coverage, emplo...

In this week's episode of OK at Work, hosts Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the details and crucial considerations when forming business partnerships or joint ventures. They explore the importance of alignment in vision and goals, the necessity of structured agreements, and the potential challenges that may arise over time. Tune in to understand how to evaluate the value...

In this week’s OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss the concept of joint employment and its implications for businesses. Learn when joint employment applies, the risks involved, and practical steps employers can take to avoid unexpected liabilities. 0:07 – Introduction and Overview of Joint Employment 1:07 – Main Risks and Wage Obligations in Joint Employment 2:01 – Real-W...

Join attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman in this week's episode of OK at Work as they discuss the critical role of trusted professionals for business owners. They emphasize the significance of forming a comprehensive team of advisors—legal, accounting, tax, banking, and insurance—to provide well-rounded, strategic advice. Russell highlights the need for alignment and thorou...

Join attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman as they discuss indemnification clauses in contracts. They explain what indemnification means, its implications, and the importance of carefully reviewing and customizing these clauses in various contexts such as employment, mergers, and acquisitions. Learn why these often-overlooked boilerplate sections in a contract could be key to...

In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the challenges surrounding workplace communications on controversial topics. They explore the impact of such conversations on productivity and the importance of balancing employee freedom with maintaining a conducive work environment. They also provide insights into navigating anti-discriminat...

Join attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman in this week's episode of OK at Work as they discuss essential recruiting and hiring practices. Learn about the importance of having a structured process to ensure compliance with state laws and avoid discriminatory practices. Discover key considerations for job postings, proper candidate classification, and conducting fair and equit...

In this episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the nuances of non-disparagement clauses in separation agreements. They explain the difference between disparagement and defamation and emphasize the importance of careful drafting to ensure enforceability. The conversation includes practical considerations on maintaining positive communication, prot...

In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss various aspects of litigation. They highlight that most litigation cases don't go to trial, benefiting both courts and taxpayers. The conversation covers critical exit points in civil litigation, such as motions to dismiss and summary judgments, which can resolve cases before reaching trial. T...