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Businesses struggling with the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis received good news late last night when the Senate passed an unprecedented piece of legislation aimed at providing a massive stimulus to workplaces and employees alike. The centerpiece of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act would allow small- and medium-sized businesses to receive federal loans – in some cases forgivable – to cover payroll and other expenses. It also expands unemployment benefits for workers impacted by the outbreak, while extending unemployment eligibility to many who are otherwise not regularly entitled to receive such benefits. While the bill is not yet law, the House is expected to approve the CARES Act by Friday and President Trump should sign it into law shortly thereafter. What do employers need to know about this significant development?

COVID-19 Impact: Courts Closed? Try Arbitration

March 27, 2020 via Cassels

Courts across Canada have closed and nearly everything before them has been adjourned sine die (indefinitely). Only urgent matters can be brought before a judge. Commendably, some courts are now implementing email filing and exploring holding hearings by video or teleconference. But when our courts re-open, they will almost certainly prioritize criminal cases, because of the constitutional obligation to resolve criminal cases within a reasonable period of time.