This is certainly an area of much abuse, especially by smaller employers, and within certain industries more than others (e.g., landscaping, construction-related). What is the real key to when the worker is an employee vs. being a true independent contrac

This is certainly an area of much abuse, especially by smaller employers, and within certain industries more than others (e.g., landscaping, construction-related). What is the real key to when the worker is an employee vs. being a true independent contractor? Also, what are the advantages to the employer from abusing this and calling workers "independent contractors" who really are employees? Name some advantages to the employer from this abuse. And what are the DISADVANTAGES to the worker from being called an independent contractor when he or she was really an employee? Also, feel free to share any stories from your personal experience of this particular abuse.