On February 26, 2026, the National Labor Relations Board (NRLB) published a new final rule that made significant changes concerning the joint employer test (“Final Rule”). The Final Rule reverses the broader, worker-friendly standard established in October 2023 and reinstates the narrower, employer friendly test established in 2020. This Final Rule became effective on February…
POSTED IN: Employment Law, News
On April 27, 2026, a Suffolk Superior Court jury issued what appears to be the first plaintiff-side verdict validating a retaliation claim under the Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave Act (PFMLA). In Boyle v. Wayfair, the jury awarded Plaintiff Mary Boyle approximately $4.7 million on her retaliation claims under the Massachusetts Fair Employment Practices…
POSTED IN: Employment Law, News
Last week’s much anticipated Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court decision in J.C. Cannistraro, LLC v. Columbia Construction Co. failed to deliver the clarity sought by the construction industry with respect to MGL c. 149, §29E, the Massachusetts Prompt Payment Act. While those ardent defenders of the sanctity of arbitration may have found solace in the SJC’s…
POSTED IN: Construction Law, News
Employment law is constantly evolving as courts issue groundbreaking decisions and new statutes are enacted at both the state and federal level. As a result, regularly conducting employment-related risk management training has become increasingly important for employers. Areas that warrant particular attention include, among others, management best practices, wage-and-hour compliance, workplace harassment prevention, and personnel…
POSTED IN: Employment Law, News
Governor Maura Healey signed Chapter 96 of the Acts of 2026, a temporary measure that lets Massachusetts cities and towns opt in to extended liquor-license hours and outdoor public consumption districts, effective June 8, 2026 and expiring on July 31, 2026. The Legislature moved quickly to give the restaurant and hospitality sector added flexibility ahead…
POSTED IN: Alcoholic Beverage Licensing, Hospitality Practice Group, News
Congratulations to RIW attorney Adam Barnosky on his nomination to the Massachusetts Restaurants United Board of Directors! The board plays an important role in shaping a mission that began in 2020, when MRU emerged as the voice for independent restaurants during COVID. As the Massachusetts affiliate of the Independent Restaurant Coalition, MRU continues to elevate…
POSTED IN: Hospitality Practice Group, News
Congratulations to RIW client The Mount Vernon Company on their recent acquisition of the Inn on the Square in Falmouth, MA. Adding to their expanding hospitality portfolio, this 82-room Cape Cod inn underscores Mount Vernon’s ambitious and vision-driven approach to real estate investment. RIW’s Michael Rosen represented Mount Vernon in this transaction, with assistance from…
POSTED IN: Commercial Real Estate, News
Chambers and Partners USA has once again recognized RIW’s Construction Practice Group as one of the top construction law firms in Massachusetts—one of only thirteen firms statewide to earn this honor in 2026. This recognition reflects the outstanding work and dedication of our Construction team, led by Chair Kirk McCormick, alongside Kimberly Alley, Bradley Croft,…
POSTED IN: Construction Law, News
It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of our colleague and friend, Eric Shediac, who passed away on May 9, 2026, after a long illness. Eric joined RIW in 2024, bringing with him decades of experience in banking and finance, commercial real estate, and business law. He was a trusted advisor to…
POSTED IN: News
Congratulations to RIW client The Mount Vernon Company on their recent acquisition of the historic North Conway Grand Hotel, a 200-room landmark nestled in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. The acquisition marks the latest addition to Mount Vernon’s growing hospitality portfolio and another bold step in their vision-driven approach to real estate. RIW’s Michael Rosen represented…
POSTED IN: Commercial Real Estate, News
