Law360, New York (March 29, 2010, 2:31 PM ET) -- “Consultants,” “Contractors,” “Freelancers,” “Professional Talent” and “Advisers” ... companies have many creative and unique titles for workers who are classified as “independent contractors.” However, it’s not the title that businesses give someone that is determinative of their status as an “independent contractor” or “employee.” Rather, it is the level of control over the work of these individuals and the nature of the relationship that matters in determining their proper status.

Given the tough economic climate, companies are implementing strategies to cut costs without sacrificing productivity or...