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Worker classification in California is not just a matter of business preference—it’s a legal requirement with serious consequences. This post breaks down the ABC test, California’s standard for determining whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor. It also outlines the legal, financial, and reputational risks of misclassification and offers practical guidance for businesses to stay compliant. Employers will learn how to assess working relationships, document them properly, and avoid costly errors.

Several California cities and counties are increasing their local minimum wage rates on July 1, 2025, with updates affecting both general and industry-specific wage requirements. This blog outlines the new rates, exceptions like Malibu, and steps employers should take to remain compliant — including adjusting wages, confirming work locations, and updating labor law posters.

Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 699 ("SB 699") on September 1, 2023, reinforcing California's ban on noncompete agreements. This law voids such agreements, regardless of where or when they were signed, prohibits employers from enforcing them, and empowers employees to take legal action against employers who violate these provisions, including recovering attorney's fees and costs. Compliance with SB 699 mandates that employers refrain from having employees enter into noncompetition agreements, aligning with California's commitment to preserving employee mobility and fostering economic growth.

The Contraceptive Equity Act of 2022 (SB 523) amends the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) to include “reproductive health decision-making” to the list of classes protected from discrimination by employers. “Reproductive health decision-making” as defined “includes, but is not limited to, a decision to use or access a particular drug, device, product, or medical service for reproductive health.”

The City of Inglewood, California passed Measure HC, the Healthcare Workers Minimum Wage Initiative, which raised the minimum wage for healthcare workers to $25.00 per hour. The minimum wage will increase annually based on inflation. The new minimum wage shall take effect on January 1, 2024.  Th...

Sexual harassment is sex discrimination in the workplace. It occurs when an applicant or employee is harassed on the basis of their sex. This includes harassment that is sexual in nature as well as behavior that is offensive in regards to a particular sex in general. Under the Fair Employment Housing and Employment Act (“FEHA”), it is illegal for employers of 5 or more employees to sexually harass an employee, applicant, or unpaid intern.

This post discusses Alternative Workweek Schedules and the requirements that must be satisfied in order to implement an Alternative Worksheet Schedule in the workplace.