The California Department of Finance recently announced in a letter that the state's minimum wage must increase from $15.50 to $16 per hour. The new minimum wage, which is set to go into effect Jan. 1, is due to an inflation adjustment required by state law....
Santa Barbara Employment Law Blog
Illegal employee harassment isn’t limited to the workplace
Many employees (and, unfortunately, too many employers) believe that workplace regulations against harassment apply only in the workplace. They believe that if someone sexually harasses a co-worker at a weekend softball game or if they run into them at the gym or a...
What if my employer is paying below minimum wage?
California, known for its vibrant economy and diverse industries, has robust labor laws in place to protect workers’ rights. Among these laws, the state’s minimum wage stands as a crucial pillar to help ensure fair compensation for employees across various sectors....
Who is responsible when an employee is harassed by a customer?
As an employee, chances are you interact with your employer’s clients on a regular basis. And while most customers are generally well-meaning, it is not uncommon to come across a problematic one. Most people know what to do when they are harassed by an employer or a...
Facing workplace discrimination? Why you shouldn’t resign
You may feel overwhelmed and frustrated due to discrimination at your workplace. However, before throwing in the towel and leaving your job, it is essential to consider a few crucial factors that could lead to a more empowering outcome. First, it may help to know you...
How California rules on unpaid work deviate from federal law
Hourly workers generally have the right to demand compensation for any time committed to their jobs. Workers deserve the promised pay they negotiated when they perform their job as expected by their employer, and they should receive full pay for all of the time that...
Can pregnant women get reasonable workplace accommodations?
Although pregnancy is a natural part of life, it can cause related conditions that may temporarily disable a pregnant woman. For example, many pregnancies put women at risk of blood pressure, anemia and other problems. Some employers do not believe these issues...
What should you know about tip sharing?
Understanding the intricacies of wage laws is critical for anyone working in a service industry where tips are part of the compensation structure. In California, specific laws govern tip pooling or sharing, which is the practice of pooling and dividing tips among...
How can workers prove that they’ve experienced wage theft?
Wage theft is a serious economic concern for hourly workers in particular. Employees who need every cent that they earn to support their families are often those most at risk of not receiving their pay in full. The impact of wage theft can add up to major losses for...
3 things to do as soon as workplace sexual harassment begins
Although pretty much everyone understands that sexual harassment in the workplace is unlawful, it still happens at a disturbing rate. Such harassment can involve many behaviors, from making offensive gestures to demands for sexual favors. Sometimes, workplace sexual...