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HVBF Monthly Meeting - Human Resources
Roundtable Host: Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson; Hosts Attending: Sam Almengor, Apex Professional Staffing Inc. Chairwoman Susan Fine opened the Roundtable with introductions of those attending. Congratulations to the programming committee for providing such an interesting subject. The discussion today was on Immigration Law Process led by Peter Guattery a partner in member Whiteford, Taylor & Preston. Peter concentrated on Immigration Issues in a Post 9/11 Economy and Form I-9 compliance was the theme. Form I-9 is date sensitive and must be completed on time to avoid penalties. I-9 documentation must be carefully examined for validity and relativity. Excessive documentation can lead to penalties for document abuse. Peter also discussed Social Security No Match Letters. Regulations have been softened to require notification for ten or more mismatches only. Be especially careful about the information you seek from your employee if you receive a No Match Letter. Some questions are off limits. Peter described H-1B as the “workhorse” visa. There are special requirements for those in special occupations who meet specific conditions. There are pitfalls for the unwary. The regulations covering immigrant workers are voluminous and complicated. There is little room for forgiveness if you wander off course or, even worse, ignore the requirements. An understanding of what is required and a plan of action to perform the requirements will keep you in compliance. For more information, Peter Guattery can be reached at peterguattery@wtplaw.com Thanks to Karen Bradley who hosted the meeting for Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson. |