Workforce Restructuring in 2026: Practical Risk Management for HR Leaders

In an article published in the March 2026 digital edition of HR.com’s Legal & Compliance Excellence, Woods Rogers attorneys Patrick Bolling and Scott Koven provide HR leaders with a framework for managing the risks associated with workplace restructurings. While each situation presents unique circumstances and potential legal challenges, Patrick and Scott outline common pitfalls and strategies organizations can use to support and defend their decisions. 

“The objective during a RIF is not to eliminate all risk – that is neither realistic nor attainable,” the authors write. “Instead, the goal is to make thoughtful, defensible decisions grounded in legitimate business needs while minimizing avoidable legal exposure.”

Patrick and Scott discuss WARN Act compliance, establishing a defensible business justification for RIFs, the impact on compensation, and severance agreements. They also highlight the importance of strong internal communications and a post-RIF stability strategy.

Read their column in HR.com’s March edition, available here.