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California

Feel free to use subjective factors when hiring, but be prepared to explain your criteria

02/25/2016
Not every hiring decision has to be based strictly on objective qualifications. Some jobs require special talents that are inherently subjective.

Provide formal training on handbook contents

02/25/2016
If all you do with your handbook is bestow it on new employees on their first day, you’re not taking full advantage of it.

Could you be liable for employee’s suicide?

02/25/2016
Sometimes, workplace harassment can be so oppressive that an employee takes his own life. In some circumstances, those responsible for maintaining a workplace free of retaliation and harassment can be held liable for such a tragedy.

What can I do about employee whose volunteer firefighting duties interfere with work?

01/15/2016

Q. One of my employees is a volunteer firefighter. Although I believe that volunteering is important, his absences to respond to emergencies have disrupted workplace productivity. Can I replace him or stop him from being absent from work?

Review your own ‘playbook’ on alcoholism, accommodations

01/15/2016
2015 saw much media attention focused on the activities of coaches and players off the field—for the wrong reasons.

Lake County, Calif., prison guard files bias suit over demotion

01/15/2016
A Lake County corrections officer claims the county discriminated against him because of his race when it demoted him after an inmate was injured and later died.

New rules: Minimum wage for piece-rate workers in California

01/15/2016
Under a law that took effect in Jan­uary, piece-rate and commission-paid employees in California must receive at least the minimum wage. Piece-rate employees must also be paid at least the minimum wage for all time spent on tasks not specifically included in the piece rate.

Train managers on job protections for employees who are victims of domestic abuse

01/15/2016
Some California employees who are victims of domestic violence have limited job protection when they need time off for treatment, court dates or other related events.

Don’t punish employee for deposition testimony

01/15/2016
If you decide to punish an employee for testifying against you in a legal deposition, be prepared for even more litigation.

Ensure arbitration agreements are fair to all, comply with California’s FEHA law

01/15/2016

Before introducing an arbitration agreement for employees or independent contractors, make sure it will stand up in court.