You may see more sabbatical requests as workplaces offer flexible benefits. California law does not mandate sabbaticals, so your business controls whether to allow them and under what conditions. Strong policies help reduce the risk of disputes under California's...
Employer Defense
What evidence do employers need to fight a retaliation lawsuit?
When an employee files a retaliation lawsuit, the employer faces a challenging situation. Retaliation claims often argue that an employer punished an employee for engaging in protected activities like reporting unlawful behavior or filing a complaint. However,...
How can an employer defend against bad-faith bargaining claims?
When a union says an employer refused to bargain in good faith, it can disrupt the entire negotiation process. If you’re a California employer, knowing how to respond and show your honest efforts to negotiate can protect your business and help maintain fair talks....
Managing workplace drug testing under California law
Workplace drug testing can protect your business, but California law has specific rules you must follow. If you don’t, you could face legal challenges from employees. Understanding what the law allows can help you create fair policies that protect both your workplace...
What rules should govern employee social media posts?
Social media can help your business grow, but it can also cause headaches if employees misuse it. You need to set clear rules to protect your company’s reputation and prevent legal problems. A good policy helps everyone know what’s okay and what isn’t. Define...
Do you have to honor your employees’ religious requests at work?
California employers must provide reasonable accommodation for employees’ sincerely held religious beliefs, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship. This requirement comes from both the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and federal Title VII, but FEHA is...
What California’s Family Rights Act (CFRA) means for leave policies
California’s Family Rights Act (CFRA) impacts the leave policies of businesses throughout the state, offering workers the ability to take time off for family and medical reasons without fearing job loss. The CFRA applies to employers with five or more employees,...
Can employers withhold pay for any reason?
As an employer in California, understanding when and why you can withhold pay is essential to staying compliant with the state's wage and hour laws. The state has strict rules about employee compensation, and failing to follow them can result in legal consequences for...
How can employers comply with California overtime laws?
California has some of the strictest overtime laws in the country, and employers must follow them carefully to avoid legal trouble. Understanding overtime rules helps businesses stay compliant and ensures employees receive fair wages. Understanding overtime pay...
Are workplace relationships a legal risk for employers?
Workplace relationships can create big legal risks for California employers. If these relationships lead to favoritism, harassment, or unfair treatment, it can cause serious problems. California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) makes employers responsible for...

