California has very strict workplace laws that are meant to provide a safe environment for the state’s workers. These are often more encompassing than federal laws. California uses federal laws as a baseline and then increases protections and expands definitions of...
Employment Law
3 ways that California laws expand on federal worker protections
Every state has the theoretical authority to pass laws that are stronger than federal regulations, so long as state rules meet minimum federal requirements. When it comes to employment regulations, some states have a reputation for being very business-friendly, while...
You can suffer “workplace” sexual harassment any time, anywhere
Most people believe that sexual harassment involving a boss or fellow employee can only be reported if it occurs within the workplace or perhaps at a work-related event like a conference or holiday party. Too often, inappropriate and even aggressive actions go...
Evidence that racial discrimination persists
There are those who contest that racial discrimination in the workplace is largely over. The reasoning behind this is that discriminating on the basis of race is certainly illegal and prohibited within the United States. This is something that wasn’t true 100 years...
How California workers can handle a wrongful termination
Companies fire workers in California every day. Some workers get fired for performance issues or attitude problems. Others lose their jobs because of issues with the company, such as numerous redundant positions or downsizing as the company restructures to avoid...
How FEHA protects California workers better than federal law
Workers who endure misconduct from their employers may feel like they have few options for seeking justice. Federal laws only go so far to protect those dealing with discrimination or harassment at work. California has thankfully enacted statutes that better protect...
“Just joking” is no excuse for discriminatory comments
You may be working in a hostile environment where discrimination is common, even if you don't get fired or see any other overt signs of discrimination. The things that people say matter, and they can create this hostile environment by making discriminatory comments,...
Should you sign an arbitration clause if your employer asks?
An arbitration clause is a clause added to some contracts that requires those with complaints to go through arbitration rather than litigating. The clause binds both parties to resolving their dispute through arbitration instead of bringing a lawsuit against the...
3 common forms of workplace age discrimination
Companies and individual employees can discriminate against others for all kinds of reasons. People frequently talk about sex discrimination and racial discrimination, but age discrimination isn't as hot of a topic. However, it still affects thousands of workers in...
3 kinds of reasonable accommodations that employers should offer
It can be a humbling experience to have to admit your limitations after you get hurt on the job or diagnosed with a serious medical condition. Some people delay reporting an injury to their employer or put off seeking medical care because they hope that the problem...