Construction Law

Practical Advice for Employers on Stop-Work Orders Part 2

In part one of our series, we advised you on how to avoid stop-work orders; this second part gives some tips on handling the stop-work order the right way. It is imperative that you deal with a stop-work order promptly. Failure to comply with the order can result in fines and criminal charges. If a stop-work order has been issued to you, contact a workers compensation defense attorney in Florida to get your business up and running again.

Deal With a Stop-Work Order Promptly

If you have not secured workers compensation coverage, understated or concealed payroll, or misrepresented employee duties to avoid having to pay a workers’ compensation premium, the DWS will issue a stop-work order. The order can seriously impede your business operations if not handled correctly and promptly. You must stop work immediately and come into compliance as soon as possible. If you do not stop work, you are in danger of a $1000 a day penalty for every day you continue to work. You must also do the following:

Respond to the Business Record Request

The DWS will want to access your business records to calculate your penalty. Providing your records within 10 business days of the request is critical because a failure to comply will likely result in a higher calculated penalty.

Agreed Order of Conditional Release

The DWS will release the stop-work order when you furnish proof of your compliance with their requirements, pay $1000 towards your final penalty, and either pay the final penalty in full within 28 days of receiving the order or enter a payment agreement with the DWS.

Let a Cotney Construction Law Attorney Help You

Our workers compensation defense lawyers in Florida are committed to helping you get back to work as soon as possible. We will work diligently to assist you with providing the specific information required by the DWS, including proof of workers compensation coverage and proof of initial payment by deadline during the investigation. We will also help you get penalties reduced and take advantage of penalty credits. If you want to reduce fines and penalties and avoid paying more than what you owe, contact us today.

If you would like to speak with a workers compensation defense lawyer in Florida, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.