Birmingham Business Journal Quotes Doug Kauffman on Employer Preparation for Anticipated Increase in I-9 Audits

Doug Kauffman, partner in the firm’s Birmingham office and member of the Labor and Employment Practice, was quoted in the Birmingham Business Journal (BBJ) about how companies are expecting an increase in immigration law enforcement during President Donald Trump’s second term, with a focus on worksite enforcement and I-9 audits. 

In the article published on January 20, 2025, Doug outlines steps employers can take in preparation of the anticipated increase in enforcement. 

He advised businesses to review their I-9 forms proactively to avoid fines and complications. He explained any mistakes on I-9s could lead to fines, whether they are unauthorized workers or not.

“The biggest surprise to a lot of employers…is that they think they’ll be fine as long as they don’t in fact have any unauthorized workers,” BBJ quoted Doug as saying. 

He said employers should do internal audits, and need to make sure vendors who may be handling I-9s are ready to provide needed materials quickly.

“Don’t wait for ICE to come knocking to make sure your I-9s are ready to go,” Doug cautioned.  

He highlighted the risks of storing I-9s in a manner that could complicate quick retrieval during an audit. 

Fines can differ significantly, Doug explained. They can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per violation, depending on factors such as the severity, frequency, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances. Doug added that, in the event of a notice of intent to fine is issued, requesting a hearing is a critical step to negotiate and potentially reduce fines.

Doug Kauffman helps employers manage their most valuable assets —their employees. For more than 30 years, he has counseled large and small employers, helping them stay up to date on the law, regulations, and best practices with respect to employment compliance. When issues arise in the workplace, Doug provides real-time solutions. He also handles complaints or audits by various government agencies, such as the EEOC, the Department of Labor, and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and he litigates all employment issues in court. Well respected on both sides of the table, Doug is frequently invited to speak at seminars sponsored by government agencies. 

Doug is consistently recognized by Chambers USA as a top Labor & Employment lawyer and was recognized by the Birmingham Business Journal as Best of the Bar in 2021.