Whether you are an employer or an employee, it is essential you understand the rules around compensation for hours worked. Companies often require employees to do hours above and beyond their usual quota. Many employees are eager to grasp the opportunity this...
Employment Law
Understanding the importance of arbitration agreements for employers
Arbitration agreements play a crucial role in employment law. But what exactly do these agreements accomplish, and why are they beneficial to employers? Arbitration First of all, let’s discuss arbitration and what it is. Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute...
What does the law say about employees discussing wages?
In California, the right of employees to discuss their wages openly with colleagues is protected under federal and state labor laws. By empowering employees to share pay information without fear of retaliation, California’s laws are designed to combat wage...
How employers can help ensure a fair job interview process
As an employer, you want personnel who can produce results and contribute meaningfully to your business. Thoughtful job interviews allow you to identify the strengths and weaknesses of candidates. However, they may leave you vulnerable to discrimination claims if you...
What employers should know about California’s new non-compete law
There’s been a trend nationwide in recent years of limiting the use of non-compete agreements and clauses in employment agreements to industries where they’re necessary for fair competition. Those clauses can’t be more broad or restrictive than necessary. California...
What employers should know about the new reproductive loss leave
People build their families in all different ways these days. Besides the old-fashioned way, there’s adoption, in vitro fertilization and surrogacy. When things don’t go as planned, it can be devastating for both prospective parents. Beginning in January, California...
Why an “English Only” policy is prohibited in the workplace
Many people who live and work in Southern California speak a native language other than English. For most of them, speaking English is required in their job. However, that doesn’t mean they’re required to speak English every moment that they’re in their workplace. If...
What is my former employer allowed to say about me?
Unfortunately, many separations of employment occur under less-than-optimal circumstances. When that happens, employees moving on to other companies may worry about what their former managers or supervisors may legally say about them to new or prospective employers....
3 simple tips for creating a discrimination-free workplace
Legal consequences, such as a lawsuit or an Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC) claim for workplace discrimination harm employers in many ways. This can destroy your reputation, impact your finances and reduce your workforce. Most employers never intend to...
Is verbal abuse or bullying by a boss illegal?
You know that workplace discrimination and harassment based on a protected status is illegal – and California recognizes more protected classes than many states. You also know that sexual harassment is illegal. What if your boss is just plain mean? Maybe they yell and...
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