In Brief
We cultivate a collaborative, inclusive culture where our team shares knowledge and stays informed on legal developments. We value diversity, as different perspectives strengthen our ability to solve problems and advocate effectively. Beyond our legal services, we prioritize building relationships through internal events that promote camaraderie and a positive environment. This culture empowers us to deliver exceptional legal services and contributions to our clients and communities.
In Brief
Prepare for New (or Old) OMA Physical Presence Requirements
By Robbins Schwartz |
Without action by the Governor, the return of the physical requirements under the OMA would coincide most of Illinois entering Phase 3 (Recovery) of the Governor’s “Restore Illinois” Plan. While…
CDC and ISBE Issue Guidance as Schools Plan for Reopening
By Robbins Schwartz |
ISBE’s guidance is only the first part of its Transition Plan Advisory Workgroup’s recommendations and focuses on the short term, discussing how to wrap up the current school year and…
U.S. Department of Education Releases Final Title IX Rules
By Robbins Schwartz |
On May 6, 2020, the U.S. Department of Education released its final Rules governing how educational institutions must address allegations of sexual harassment and assault under Title IX of the…
Stay‐at‐Home Orders Extend into May, Despite Lawsuits
By Robbins Schwartz |
On April 30, Governor Pritzker issued a new stay‐at‐home order, Executive Order 2020‐32, extending from May 1 to May 29, despite lawsuits challenging his authority to do so. In addition,…
Illinois Department of Human Rights Publishes Model Sexual Harassment Prevention Training
By Robbins Schwartz |
On April 28, 2020, the Illinois Department of Human Rights (“IDHR”) released its model Sexual Harassment Prevention Training program under the Workplace Transparency Act (“WTA”) signed into law in August 2019.
Illinois Supreme Court Rules Contractor Can Recover for Services Even Without a Board-Approved Contract and a Failure to Go to Bid
By Robbins Schwartz |
On April 16, 2020, the Illinois Supreme Court ruled that a contractor could recover outstanding sums for emergency repair and reconstruction work performed on behalf of a school district despite the district’s failure to follow the bidding requirements for contracts under the School Code and the district’s failure to have the contract approved by a formal board vote.
Managing School Finances During Uncertain Times: What Should I Be Doing Now?
By Robbins Schwartz |
Revenues and expenses are always difficult to predict, so preparing a viable budget and keeping it in balance are among the most challenging demands school financial officials will face.
Electronic Bidding Requirements in Light of COVID-19 Shutdown
By Robbins Schwartz |
Due to language in the Governor’s Executive Order 2020‐15, issued March 27, 2020, many school districts and contractors have had questions regarding whether electronic bid openings are permissible for construction…
Department of Labor Issues Rules for New Federal Leave Laws
By Robbins Schwartz |
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), requires private employers with less than 500 employees and all public sector employers to provide eligible employees with new paid leave benefits for…
Recommendations for Higher Education Institutions Responding to a Report That a Student or Employee Has Tested Positive for COVID-19
By Robbins Schwartz |
We have prepared the following guidance to assist institutions when responding to these reports and determining what information should be shared with the community.