Proposed land use and other discretionary planning projects in California can be subject to an environmental review process. This process is provided for in The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which is a landmark environmental statute put in place to...
Blog
Protecting trade secrets when employees leave your company
An employee's departure can have a significant impact on a business, especially if that person had access to or knowledge of private proprietary information. Under these circumstances, there can be concerns about the safety of trade secrets. Employers can protect this...
Creating a succession plan for my business
Building a business is about more than a way to make a living. Your company is part of your legacy. Over the years, your business has been a model for caring for your community and providing for your loved ones. Eventually, it will be time to help your company move...
Business owners: 4 consequences of not having an estate plan
Business owners have a lot on their plate, and estate planning often falls to the bottom of their list of priorities. Some say they have too much to do; others fail to see the value of this type of planning. However, there are real consequences when a business owner...
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...
Review company pay practices for 2022
The new year brings new opportunities and hopes for relief from the nearly two-year pandemic. It’s also an opportune time for California employers to audit pay practices to ensure they meet state, federal and local wage and hour rules. For 2022, companies should pay...
Employers: What you can do to prepare for 2022
This year has been rife with challenges for businesses and individuals. Turning the page to a new year gives everyone a chance to start again and refocus on their goals. If you are an employer, now is an excellent time to prepare yourself, your employees and your...
Pros and cons of arbitrating business disputes
Disputes with partners, employees and other businesses can disrupt a company's operations and divert resources away from critical functions. Thus, most California business owners utilize strategies to minimize the toll of a legal dispute. One strategy is to use...
How your lease can help you resolve landlord-tenant disputes
If you rent commercial or residential space, disputes with your landlord can arise. Often, these conflicts involve rent increases, repairs or permitted behaviors. Whatever the situation may be, when you are looking for a way to resolve a disagreement, your lease...
Celebrating 38 Years