George Lenard has practiced law with Chesterfield, Missouri-based Harris Dowell Fisher & Harris for more than 18 years. The firm is devoted to providing legal services to businesses in all aspects of labor and employment law. He concentrates primarily on research and preparation of briefs, motions and other written advocacy for clients in arbitration, litigation, and agency investigations. As the manager of the firm's information systems, he also publishes the blawg (law blog), George's Employment Blawg.

Columns

Solving the Reference-Checking Puzzle II

Know who to ask and what to ask when it comes time to check references.

Solving the Reference-Checking Puzzle

Despite employers' tendency to be tight-lipped, a properly conducted reference check can still prove a very useful source of information.

Top Tips for Avoiding Legal Trouble with Employees

Being aware of the legal aspects of the hiring process is important, but an underlying knowledge of general employment law is a necessary foundation. Here are the key things to keep in mind when working with existing -- and potential -- employees.