Hasidic N.Y. enclave shaken by lurid case; domestic violence triggers debate over the divorce laws of Orthodox Judaism

Article Abstract:

Hasidic Jew Joseph Zitrenbaum is on trial in rural New York for the attempted murder of his wife of 14 years, Blima. The case highlights the difficulties of divorce despite long-time domestic violence in the Hasidic Jewish community for under Jewish religious law, the husband must grant a 'get' or permission for a divorce for one to take place. A woman who gets a civil divorce without a get may be ostracized by her community, and a second husband and family may suffer the same fate. Children of a second marriage will be considered illegitimate.

Analysis, Cases, Assault and battery, Conjugal violence, New York (State), Criminal attempt, Divorce (Jewish law), Zitrenbaum, Joseph

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Workplace laws' toll on bottom line is scrutinized: in survey, 17 big corporations say the cost of compliance with 21 federal laws is burdensome but could be worse

Article Abstract:

A survey of 17 of the largest US corporations establishes the cost to them of 21 federal laws, led by the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Corporate counsel have been staking out a position that supports legislation in Congress to reshape federal laws, but that also advocates federal preemption and increased company-agency cooperation. The 17 companies spend $139 million, or 0.7% of total revenues, on compliance, 27% of that on OSHA. Many experts say litigation costs and payroll and benefits reflect the most costs.

Economic aspects, Occupational health and safety, Occupational safety and health

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Laws may ease the risky business of job references: more states mull adopting a higher standard of proof for plaintiffs who file defamation suits against ex-employers

Article Abstract:

Ten states have passed laws to encourage employers to give more accurate references regarding potentially dangerous employees. Some critics of the trend say common law already gives former employers adequate protection. They also say the new laws, which four other states are contemplating, require a deliberate lie to establish wrongdoing, while a reckless statement should suffice. A recent survey of managers found 63% have refused to provide information about a former employee out of fear of a lawsuit.

Laws, regulations and rules, Employer liability, Prevention, Workplace violence, Employment references

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