As in other states, California labor law distinguishes between two broad categories of workers: company employees and “independent contractors.” Unfortunately, employers sometimes misclassify workers as independent contractors, whether by mistake or in an effort to...
Legal Issues Blog
What are the differences between buying a franchise and buying a business?
Starting a business from scratch can be incredibly difficult and challenging. Instead of building from the ground up, you may want to buy into an existing business. You will have two general options for doing this. You can purchase a franchise or buy a business. There...
3 common ways to resolve business disputes
Most California business owners find themselves embroiled in one or more business disputes at some point during their careers. Whether your dispute arises over contract terms, employee complaints, or something else, you need to figure out the most effective way to...
Overtime and your rights in California
It is important to be aware of all of your rights as an employee. Sadly, some employers do not respect the rights of their employees with regard to compensation for overtime hours they work. You should be aware of overtime laws and make sure that you receive overtime...
Common questions about pregnancy disability leave
During pregnancy and childbirth, many complications and conditions can arise. In some cases, pregnancy complications can affect your ability to work. In California, employers with five or more employees must provide time off and reasonable accommodations for employees...
Does my employer have to provide me with paid vacation?
Vacation time is often an important part of a benefits package from an employer. You might feel that it's a given, depending on your industry or job description. Still, know that California law does not mandate your employer to provide you with paid time off for...
3 tips for business owners to prevent pregnancy discrimination
Since women make up nearly half of the American workforce, employers should expect that some female employees may become pregnant during their careers. While employers may not intentionally act discriminatory toward these employees, improper policies may still permit...
Illegal retaliation might not be so easy to identify
In the U.S., employees generally have a right to be free from discrimination because of their sex, national origin, religion, race and age. Still, workplace discrimination remains alarmingly common across the country. In fact, according to reporting from Nasdaq, 55%...
How can employers fight back against ageism in the workplace?
Having employees in the workplace who make prejudiced remarks against others based on their age is annoying, at best. It can also cause employers to lose valuable employees who leave their jobs to escape the discrimination. This behavior can even lead a victimized...
How small businesses can encourage customers to pay on time
Many small businesses depend on customers paying their invoices in a timely fashion. Cash flow is imperative to continue operating and delays in being paid can be harmful to your business. You might end up in court to recoup your unpaid amounts. Setting up methods to...