The state of California has a diverse workforce. People of all religious backgrounds and creeds form a crucial part of the economy. There are several benefits to having a diverse workforce, including increased productivity, innovative ideas and access to talent....
Employment Law
Severance in the Golden State: Is it written in your contract?
Job loss can be a stressful experience, and navigating the legalities surrounding it can add another layer of complexity. California, in particular, has strong employee protections, and understanding your rights regarding severance is crucial. One of the first...
What does quid pro quo mean?
There are different types of sexual harassment that can occur on the job. One is known as quid pro quo. It is important to know what this means, especially if you’re considering your legal options because you believe you’re being harassed as an employee. In Latin,...
Speaking up: Telling your boss about co-worker harassment
No one should face workplace harassment due to their religion, race or other protected characteristic. Still, it remains an unfortunate reality for many employees. If you are the target of unwelcome, offensive behavior from a co-worker, informing your employer can...
Time for dad: A brief guide to family leave in California
Fatherhood should never be treated like an afterthought in employment. Under California law, it is recognized as a vital part of early childhood development. Both new mothers and fathers have the right to take time off when they expand their family. Family leave is...
3 accommodations you may need as an employee with disabilities
In today’s work environment, inclusivity and diversity are no longer just buzzwords but crucial federal law requirements. Under the ADA, employers are obligated to provide reasonable accommodations for those applicants and workers with disabilities. These...
How “quiet firing” can be used to hide age discrimination
It takes a pretty bold employer to openly flout state and federal rules against age discrimination in the workplace, but that doesn’t mean the problem has gone away. A subtle phenomenon known as “quiet firing” has emerged as a covert strategy employers can use to...
Mind these employee rights when signing a severance agreement
Meticulously examining your severance agreement is crucial in protecting your employee rights and negotiating a favorable offer. However, if you focus solely on the contents of the document, your rights related to the actual signing of the agreement might slip your...
How to determine the “regular rate of pay”
When sorting out wage and overtime pay issues, you should determine your "regular rate of pay." This value considers your overall earnings, including your salary, commissions, hourly income and other forms of remuneration. Your regular rate of pay can vary, but it...
Is nastiness illegal at work?
Not everyone acts nicely toward everyone else all the time. This is true everywhere, from the home to the street and the school playground to the workplace. Despite philosophical self-help books telling you not to take insults personally because someone’s unpleasant...