Employee handbooks are a vital tool that protects employers and informs employees. Reviewing and updating your handbook periodically is important to ensure it continues to be accurate. The end of the calendar year can be an excellent time to assess yours. Changing...
A Legacy of Experience
Downsizing? How to sidestep discrimination claims
Making your company smaller by eliminating positions can be a very difficult - but necessary - process. If you are at a point where you must downsize or lay off certain employees, you might already be struggling with what this means for your business. One thing to...
Can I fire an employee who uses cannabis?
Legal cannabis use may not be new for Californians, but it can still be a complicated issue for new employers. For instance, if you have a few employees or are ready to start hiring employees, you should know whether cannabis use off or on the job can affect the...
Does your business use AI to automate employment decision-making?
Artificial intelligence can make a range of business decisions and operations easier for you as an owner. However, because AI is still a relatively new tool for business owners across California, issues and questions can arise and present unexpected obstacles....
Am I supposed to pay workers a split shift premium?
Split shift schedules can be appropriate for many California businesses. The term "split shift" refers to a work schedule with an unpaid break period longer than the usual lunch or rest period. Under California law, if you have employees who work a split shift, you...
Employees want four-day workweeks, but is that realistic?
As we start seeing life return to normal in light of the pandemic, much of the decisions you make as an employer could center on flexible work solutions for your employees. One option gaining traction among employees across California is the desire for a four-day...
Are wage disputes difficult to resolve?
When it comes to wage disputes, people tend to oversimplify them. However, these cases are often far more complex than people realize for a few reasons. There are (at least) two sides to every story In many wage disputes, parties do not agree that there is a...
Employers: Severance package and pay mistakes to avoid
While offering a severance package of benefits and pay to employees who leave your business is not mandatory, it is something many employers consider. Severance (or separation) packages are often used when an employer must implement a reduction in force and invite...
Responding appropriately to harassment complaints from employees
In recent years, harassment has become a hot-button issue at companies in California. Claims of unlawful harassment are made by females against males, males against females and by persons of the same gender. Employers must also be sensitive to, and address claims of...
Reasonable vs. unreasonable accommodations for pregnant workers
Employers generally want to comply with employment laws that address employee rights. However, the laws can be confusing and vague, making it difficult to always know what to do. For instance, you may know that California laws require employers to provide reasonable...
Celebrating 37 Years
