News & Updates
How to Report Workplace Harassment to Your Employer
We spend a large portion of our days at work and deserve a low-conflict environment where we are treated with respect. Unfortunately, not all workplaces maintain a peaceful environment with respect for the human dignity of all employees. Workplace harassment creates a hostile work environment that can impact physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Fortunately, both…
What to Do If You’re Misclassified as an Independent Contractor
Employers have a strong financial incentive to use independent contractors as workers rather than employees; however, they cannot manage or control an independent contractor the way they can with an employee. Under federal and state employee protection laws, an employer may not treat you as an employee and then misclassify you as an independent contractor…
Are Employers Required to Provide Religious Accommodations?
California has comprehensive laws in place for employee protection under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), including protections against the discrimination or harassment of employees with protected characteristics like race, age, and gender. Religion is another important protected characteristic under both FEHA and federal employment law. The law prohibits employers from discriminating against employees…
How Long Do You Have to File a Workplace Sexual Harassment Claim In California?
California has federal and state laws in place prohibiting toxic and hostile behaviors in the workplace, including sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is an egregious violation of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as well as a violation of California’s state employment laws. California workers do not have to tolerate sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is a…
Can You Be Fired for What You Post on Social Media?
Social media has become a central point in our daily lives, essentially forming communities where we interact, connect, and share opinions. Social media seems anonymous, and we feel safe behind our phones or keyboards, but what happens when an employer encounters a worker’s social media accounts? Employees have a right to expect privacy in their…
What Is Considered a Hostile Work Environment?
Most Americans spend 40 or more hours per week at work, a significant portion of their lives. The workplace environment has a substantial impact on a person’s mood and emotional well-being, even outside of work. If the work environment is hostile, it not only becomes difficult for an employee to do their job, but it…