As a year defined by rapid legal and regulatory shifts draws to a close, employers continue to face new and complex challenges. From the surge in pay transparency class actions to the accelerating regulation of artificial intelligence (AI), staying ahead of these developments is essential to mitigate risk, ensure compliance, and prepare for what’s next.

Join McDermott Will & Schulte’s Employment Group to unpack the most significant legal trends impacting employers in 2025 and practical strategies to prepare your organization for 2026.

Discussion topics will include:

• Wage and hour developments, including the implications of the rise in Fair Labor Standards Act collective actions
• The latest legal requirements and best practices for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, religious accommodations, and political speech considerations
• Increasing regulatory scrutiny of and transparency expectations for using AI in the workplace
• The current landscape of restrictive covenants including noncompete agreements, industry-specific enforcement, and trade secret protection
• Strategies for navigating complex employment litigation
• Key updates on union organizing activity, collective bargaining, and National Labor Relations Board activity

Continuing legal education (CLE) credit is pending. McDermott Will & Schulte LLP is an approved provider and can provide credit in California, Illinois, and New York. McDermott Will & Schulte is a sponsor and will apply for credit in Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia when lawyers licensed in these jurisdictions are in attendance. We can issue reciprocal credit for lawyers licensed in Connecticut and New Jersey. For all other jurisdictions not listed, attendees will be provided with a Universal Certificate of Attendance that they may use to self-apply for CLE credit in their state of admission. Attendees should contact their state’s CLE board for current rules, regulations, and guidance.