With California’s recent reforms to the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA), employers now have an unprecedented opportunity to significantly reduce their potential liability for labor code violations. One of the most crucial changes under the reformed PAGA is the introduction of penalty caps for employers who demonstrate good faith efforts to comply with labor
A well-structured process for onboarding new employees is a common practice, but equally important—and often overlooked—is having a clear procedure for when employees leave the company. Ensuring that all company property is returned, providing any required documentation, and taking steps to mitigate potential legal risks are crucial when an employee departs. Here are five key
While California law does not require employers to offer severance pay, providing it in exchange for a release of claims can be a strategic move to avoid future litigation when parting ways with employees. For at-will employees, where no contract mandates severance, an employer may still benefit from offering a severance package in specific situations
Effective September 3, 2024, a new ordinance in Los Angeles County offers additional protections for individuals with criminal records seeking employment. The Fair Chance Ordinance builds upon California’s Fair Chance Act (AB 1008), codified in Government Code section 12952, which prohibits employers from asking about criminal records before extending a job offer. The new ordinance
The service industry in California constantly grapples with the complexities surrounding tips, tip pooling, and mandatory service charges. Recently, on August 23, 2024, a federal appeals court blocked the Department of Labor’s (DOL) controversial 80/20/30 rule in Restaurant Law Center, Texas Restaurant Association v. United State Dept. of Labor. This rule, which created significant
As a business owner or HR professional, staying informed on the latest in employment law is crucial to protecting your company. However, with the daily demands of running a business, it’s easy to overlook some of the valuable resources that are available to you—especially the ones that are free and designed specifically to help you
As we reach the midpoint of 2024, it’s essential for California employers to take note of a few key legal updates that could impact their businesses. From increased minimum wages to new workplace safety requirements, the first half of the year has introduced important legal updates that require attention. This mid-year review offers five reminders
I am attending VeeCon this week, which is taking place in Los Angeles from August 9 – 11. VeeCon, the idea of Gary Vaynerchuk, is described as a conference that is a mix between Davos and South by Southwest. Today, a panel discussion titled “Is It Time For Another Look at Blockchain?” The panel discussed
Parties involved in litigation should always keep an open mind about mediation at every stage of litigation. Cases that resolve without having to go through a trial or arbitration can potentially save the parties a lot of time and money in litigation. This article touches on five items employers involved in litigation need to understand
Ensuring timely payment of wages is a crucial responsibility for California employers. Following our recent discussion on final pay for employees, several readers raised further questions about wage payment schedules and the handling of tips. In response, this Friday’s Five highlights key reminders about employers’ obligations to timely pay wages and tips under California
