As a California employer, it can be a challenge to keep up with the ever-changing state laws related to wages, contracts, discrimination, harassment and leaves. For example, one new law that took effect at the beginning of this year requires employers to give...
Employment Law For Employers
Is the California minimum wage about to increase?
If you are an employer, you know that breaching federal or state employment laws could land you in legal trouble and lead to unhappy staff. So it’s crucial to keep up to date with any changes. Employees, too, need to stay informed to ensure their employer gives them...
3 things to know about retaliation in the workplace
Employers have a duty to employees to provide a workplace that’s free of hostility. One critical point for all employers to set in place is a policy to combat retaliation. In order to provide employees with a safe and suitable workplace, employers must ensure all...
What employees should know about rest breaks
Taking a break from work relieves stress, preventing burnout. Thus, it helps employees' mental health and well-being. Breaks also lead to improved productivity and job satisfaction. The law requires employers to give employees adequate breaks. Here is what you should...
What wage deductions require written authorization in California?
You, an employer, have multiple ways to deduct from employee wages lawfully. Sometimes, it is a legal requirement enforced by state or federal law, such as income taxes or garnishments. Other times, the deductions serve as contributions to specific benefits the...
When Should Employers Require Nondisclosure Agreements?
Employers could use a nondisclosure agreement (NDA) to protect sensitive information, especially vital details for day-to-day operations. However, it is crucial to know when it is appropriate. Sometimes, unnecessary NDAs could put inappropriate pressure on employees,...
When did you last review your employee handbook?
When was the last time you read your employee handbook? Are you confident that it effectively communicates your company's policies and procedures? If it's been a while since you last gave it a thorough look, now may be the perfect time to ensure it's up to date. An...
Can I dismiss an employee who reports to work drunk?
As a general starting point, California is an at-will employment state. This means you can terminate an employee at any time and for any reason (or without a reason) during the employment period. However, you cannot terminate an employee on discriminatory grounds. If...
Are California companies obligated to accommodate lactation needs?
Most employers are happy to make accommodations for their workers, as long as those accommodations don’t affect the efficiency or well-being of the business. An employee who needs to leave early once a week to attend medical appointments may be permitted to make up...
What a good HR department should do
As a successful business owner, you have a team of staff behind you. While you take on your load of work, it would be impossible for you to do absolutely everything. Thus, you have a Human Resources (HR) department to help with certain aspects of the company. But...