Terminating an employee is one of the hardest parts of running a small business. You may worry about upsetting your team or facing legal trouble. In California, the laws around termination are strict, so taking careful steps helps protect your business and your...
BUILDING SUCCESSFUL BUSINESSES
Employment Law
Can an employer discipline employees who file false complaints?
Handling employee complaints is a regular part of running a business. Sometimes, however, an employee may file a complaint that isn’t based on facts. As an employer, you might wonder whether you can take disciplinary action without creating legal risk. In California,...
How can employers minimize risk when terminating employees?
Ending an employment relationship can be stressful for everyone involved. If you run a business in California, the laws around termination are complex. Taking careful steps can help you reduce the chance of disputes or lawsuits. Understand at-will employment...
What should employers know about reporting time pay rules?
California has strict rules that govern how you must pay employees who report to work but do not receive their expected hours. These rules, called reporting time pay, protect workers from lost income when schedules change unexpectedly. As an employer, understanding...
Can employers enforce dress codes under California law?
Many California employers wonder if they can set dress code standards for their workplace. While you have the right to create policies that support professionalism, safety, or brand image, state and federal laws place limits on what you can enforce. Understanding...
What steps should employers take before a mass layoff?
When a company faces the difficult decision of a mass layoff, it’s essential to take the right steps to minimize risk and treat affected employees fairly. Planning ahead and following the proper procedures can help avoid legal trouble and make the process smoother for...
The best practices for documenting employee performance issues
Documenting employee performance issues protects your workplace and sets clear expectations. When done correctly, it creates a reliable record that supports fairness and accountability. It’s helpful to know some best practices to handle performance documentation in a...
How can employers document rest breaks to avoid class actions?
California law requires you to provide duty-free rest breaks based on hours worked. If you fail to do so—and don’t have documentation—you could face class action lawsuits. The key to reducing that risk is keeping clear, consistent records of each rest period. Use...
What essential policies must a CA employee handbook include?
Your employee handbook sets the tone for how your workplace operates. In California, it does more than outline expectations; it can also shield you from costly legal issues. If your handbook misses key policies, you're leaving your business open to risk. Wage and hour...
What are the essential elements of an employee handbook?
An employee handbook is a crucial document that sets the expectations and policies for both employees and employers. It outlines the rules, benefits, and procedures that guide daily operations in a workplace. By creating a comprehensive employee handbook, you ensure...
