There are countless legal pitfalls that employers in California have to be aware of. Under California law, employers have legal obligations to their employees, and one misstep could have costly financial consequences. Even an honest mistake could lead your business to face extensive liability, especially if your response to the situation is not handled in the right way.
At KV LAW, P.C., we understand the challenges employers face and can assist with your legal needs, including advice on day-to-day employment issues; proper hiring, discipline, and discharge; compliance with wage and hour laws (including related to overtime, minimum wage, meal and rest break, vacation, sick time, reimbursement for business expenses, gratuities and tips, and the like); workplace policies; employee handbooks; employment contracts; and defending employers in lawsuits against them based on myriad employment issues, including class actions and Private Attorneys General Act (“PAGA”) claims.
We are here to assist you with your employment law needs, leaving you to focus on the core aspects of running your company.
Employee Discipline and Termination
Disciplining or terminating an employee is a legally sensitive area for employers. While California is an at-will employment state, employers may not discipline or terminate employees for unlawful reasons, such as discrimination or retaliation.
Employers should ensure that disciplinary actions are applied consistently, supported by objective evidence, and aligned with written policies. Termination decisions should be reviewed carefully to confirm compliance with employment laws, including final wage payments.
Wage & Hour Issues
Wage and hour compliance is a frequent issue for California employers, and it is one of the major focuses in employment law. Employers have to adhere to strict rules governing matters like overtime, minimum wage, meal breaks, rest breaks, vacation pay, sick pay, gratuity pay, final pay, wage statements, and reimbursement for business expenses. Failure to comply with these rules can carry serious consequences.
Another common issue is the alleged misclassification of employees. Misclassifying employees as independent contractors is a common issue that can lead to substantial back-pay liability and penalties, and employers need to have a clear picture of how this process works.
Employment Contracts, Policies & Handbooks
Employment contracts, policies, and handbooks help define expectations and reduce ambiguity in the workplace. These written agreements and expectations can address many aspects of the employer-employee relationship, from compensation, to discipline, to confidentiality, to arbitration agreements.
Having the right attorney by your side to assist with drafting, interpreting, or defending these types of contracts, policies, and handbooks is critical..
Learn How KV LAW, P.C. Can Help
You have a lot on your plate as a business owner. While your time should be spent focusing on your core competencies and growing your company, many owners find themselves bogged down again and again with employment-related issues.
At KV LAW, P.C., we can assist you with your employment law needs. Call today to learn more about how we can help.