Any company with employees is aware of the fact that conflicts between people are inevitable. Conflicts can arise due to disagreements about work-related matters or because of issues that are purely personal. Fortunately, these kinds of conflicts are often resolved informally and without the intervention of an employment attorney or…
When drafted properly, employee handbooks encourage open communication in the workplace, set employee expectations, and shield businesses from the financial burden of legal liability. Here are 3 reasons why your business should have an employee handbook. 3 Reasons Why Your Company Should Have an Employee Handbook Establish Your Company’s Character…
Last year, California legislators passed the Healthy Workplace Healthy Family Act of 2014, which provided the opportunity to accrue paid time off for sick leave to almost every California employee. The law allows qualifying employees who have worked at least 30 days to begin accrual and to use that sick…
In 1967, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed an historic law into effect prohibiting employment bias on the grounds of age: The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). This act gives certain labor protections to workers over age 40. But do you know how this law affects employment at your company?…
Large companies frequently have corporate employee handbooks that are updated on an annual basis to reflect changes in employment laws or company policies. However, many small business owners with few employees may not see the need in having such a handbook that formally sets out employment policies and rules. While…
Employment in California is generally “at-will,” which means that either the employer or employee may terminate the employment relationship at any time without good cause. However, under certain circumstances termination may be considered unlawful, and an employer can be exposed to possible liability for wrongful termination. It is important to…
Meal and rest breaks are mandated by the state and allow employees to re-energize and reset during their workday. Surprisingly, providing a lunch break is not a federal requirement, however allowing employees to take breaks can reduce safety-related incidents in many industries. Failing to give an employee adequate breaks can…
If you employ workers, chances are good that your business is subject to a number of labor laws enacted by the United States Department of Labor as well as the California Department of Industrial Relations. Failure to comply with these labor laws can cause a lot more than disgruntled workers;…
California has distinct wage and hour laws in place to ensure the proper pay of employees. Employers often need clarification on California wage and hour laws. Each industry is different but here is an overview of requirements in the state. California Wage and Hour Laws Minimum Wage California’s minimum wage…
California employees are protected from discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and state laws. An employer cannot discriminate on the basis of: • Race • Gender, gender identity, or gender expression • Sexual orientation • Religion • National origin • Disability • Medical conditions •…