Simplifying Cal/OSHA Workplace Safety in California

Running a business in California means playing by some strict rules, especially when it comes to workplace safety. Cal/OSHA sets the standards high, way above what federal OSHA requires. Cal/OSHA demands thorough hazard assessments, effective safety training for your employees, and a proactive approach to health and safety management. You'll need to keep detailed records of any incidents and be ready for Cal/OSHA Read More

Cracking the Code of California’s E-Commerce Laws

E-commerce and online businesses in California operate within a comprehensive legal framework that impacts virtually every aspect of their operations. This framework encompasses a variety of state and federal laws addressing consumer protection, privacy, taxation, and intellectual property rights. For entrepreneurs and companies aiming to thrive in the digital marketplace, a thorough understanding of these Read More

Surveillance in the Workplace: How Far Can Employers Legally Go?

The topic of workplace surveillance presents a complex discussion for employers, both ethically and legally. With the increasing availability and sophistication of surveillance technologies, it's essential for business owners to understand the legal boundaries and requirements. This month, we’re delving into the topic of permissible surveillance for California employers, aiming to clarify what is legally acceptable Read More

“Ban the Box” in California: Key Information for Business Owners

In California, the "Ban the Box" law marks a pivotal change in hiring practices, particularly regarding the rights of employees with a history in the legal system. This law, part of a wider movement across the United States, aims to eliminate the checkbox on job applications that inquires about criminal records. Its purpose is to reduce discrimination against individuals with previous convictions, offering them a Read More

Has Your Partnership with General Counsel Evolved?

The role of general counsel in businesses has evolved significantly over time. Initially focused mainly on legal compliance and risk mitigation, general counsel today is much more involved in the broader aspects of business strategy. This shift is in response to the evolving business and regulatory environment, requiring general counsel to be not only legal advisors but also strategic partners, risk managers, and Read More

The Importance of Having a Skilled Litigator by Your Side

When there’s an uncertain economic climate, companies face a surge in legal challenges that require not just legal representation, but excellent litigation skills. Every legal situation will require skillful strategizing, which means that not every attorney will be the right person for the case. A litigator brings a unique set of skills to the table, differing from general attorneys in several key aspects. For Read More

Tools of the Trade: Appropriate Compensation for Personal Work Tools

The dilemma surrounding the provision of work tools or compensating employees for using their own tools is a significant challenge for employers, particularly in California. This issue not only has financial implications but also requires strict adherence to labor laws. California's unique labor regulations are designed to protect employee rights and ensure fair compensation, but often leave employers left to sift Read More

Adapting for Form I-9 and Verification Processes

Recently, the federal government has made some changes to the employee verification process. These include modifications to Form I-9 and a new e-verification system that is set to roll out next year. Here is a summary of these recent changes. What Is Form I-9? Form I-9 is the employment eligibility verification form put forth by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services agency (USCIS). Employers Read More

Keeping Up with PAGA in California

The Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) is a California labor law that enables employees to act on behalf of the state in order to enforce labor code violations. Under PAGA, employees can seek civil penalties on behalf of themselves and others for a wide range of labor law infractions, such as wage and hour violations. Intended to level the playing field by giving rank-and-file employees the ability to seek Read More

AI Creates New Conflicts in Intellectual Property Law

It seems like every day there is some new claim about the revolutionizing power of artificial intelligence (AI). How much of this will have a lasting effect remains to be seen, but from a legal standpoint, the intellectual property challenges are already present and pressing, particularly when it comes to copyrights. Copyright law is designed to protect original works of authorship, such as books, music, movies, and Read More