A most valuable asset for all businesses is the people that operate it. Ironically, the obtainment and retention of employees and the termination of the employment relationship presents a gauntlet of state and federal legal issues which, if not adequately addressed, becomes the greatest vulnerability. Maintaining a work force can present legal issues in an assortment of areas such as immigration and homeland security, fair labor standards, family medical leave, compensation and benefits, discrimination, trade secrets, confidentiality and non-competition. Having a comprehensive and standardized system and plan in place creates a foundation from which a work force can grow. Otherwise, it is difficult if not impossible to keep up with regulatory and legal requirements which are becoming more complex. Attorney Bernard van Gils has experience with growing a substantial work force and putting in place the human resource systems necessary to maintain positive growth, keep good employees and keep companies safe.