LABOR: As employers consider layoffs in the midst of the current COVID-19 crisis, they must remember to account for potential application of the federal WARN Act. While an employer may be relieved from providing a full 60 days’ notice if it can demonstrate that COVID-19 resulted in “unforeseeable business circumstances” that led to the covered plant closing or mass layoff, the employer must still provide “as much notice as is practicable” to those entitled to notice under the WARN Act, including a brief statement of the basis for reducing the notice period.

Bracewell has assembled a dedicated, multidisciplinary task force that draws on the firm's deep experience across all practice areas and industries to provide practical, strategic advice to clients facing even more difficult decisions as this global crisis unfolds.

Bracewell LLP is a leading law and government relations firm. Our knowledge of the commercial, legal and governmental challenges faced by clients across industries enables us to provide innovative solutions to facilitate transactions and resolve disputes.

Danielle Garbien, a leading lawyer in the renewable energy finance and transactional space, has joined the firm’s power practice as a partner in the New York office, strengthening the firm’s capabilities in addressing the growing renewable energy market.

Frels has previously served as the foundation’s vice chair (2018–2019), nominating committee chair (2016–2019) and projects committee chair (2012–2015).