We all have personal preferences, and sometimes we don't really know why we favor one thing over another; we just do. These subconscious inclinations impact our daily decision-making, even at work. West Virginia workplaces are affected by the bias of employees, whether it is intended or not. Unconscious bias in WV should be addressed by employers who wish to maintain a positive, diverse work environment and avoid discrimination and harassment complaints.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are both programs of the Social Security Administration (SSA). While these programs have some similarities, it is important to realize there is a difference between SSI and SSDI, especially if you are preparing your estate plans and Social Security is a possible factor.

In West Virginia (WV), a statutory exception allows employees or their representatives to circumvent workers' compensation immunity and file suit for monetary damages in limited circumstances. These WV deliberate intent claims can be complex and costly. A thorough comprehension of state law and the intricacies of workers' compensation in WV are needed to successfully defend deliberate intent cases.

Medicaid myths and misunderstandings about long-term care coverage and Medicaid asset protection are abundant. The belief that individuals with significant financial means will never need Medicaid coverage and the idea that all assets must be exhausted before Medicaid coverage becomes an option are among these fictions.

Private payment of long-term care can quickly exhaust substantial financial resources, as mentioned in the first blog of this six-part series. But there are legal and ethical ways to preserve resources that allow the person in need of care and the remaining spouse or family to retain a quality standard of living.

West Virginia (WV) employers are required by law to provide a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment. Solidly crafted and enforced employment policies can create a culture that values diversity and deters discrimination. However, when litigation is threatened or arises, employers in the Mountain State may need to develop a WV employer retaliation defense strategy.

Employers sometimes hesitate to take action against disruptive or difficult employees out of fear of employment retaliation cases. Proper legal preparation, guidance, and defense strategies aid in preventing retaliation claims and can eliminate the need for businesses to continue to employ non-performing or incompetent employees.