By now, employers and business owners are very familiar with California’s Assembly Bill 5 and the new – and highly controversial – rules for classifying whether workers are employees or independent contractors. Regardless of what an employer’s feelings are about these new guidelines, they are a reality for California employers. Challenges and disputes over this […]

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We have discussed the potential risks that remote working poses to a company’s trade secrets on this blog before. Business owners are likely aware of these concerns, since many of their workers are using their home internet, and maintaining digital security can be complex outside the company’s physical boundaries. However, it bears repeating that business […]

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How do business owners determine if a competitor has infringed on their trademark? It might seem straightforward if a start-up uses a name too similar to your company’s, or other companies sell products with designs that match your logo too closely. The evidence of infringement might be clear, but there is one more factor that […]

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Most employers know that wage and hour claims are some of the most common legal issues they will face. Even though they are common, they can lead to serious issues and risks for companies. A recent case involving Apple showcases only one example of the effect these cases can have – even when it boils […]

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While the brick-and-mortar shop remains strong, there is no doubt that online commerce has become a fierce competitor in the business world, particularly in light of the past two years of Covid-19. For example, sales in e-commerce rose by 16% between 2016 and 2017 alone. The more consumers take to their computers to shop, the more businesses […]

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There are several laws protecting groups of employees. And, in turn, there are many requirements and responsibilities that employers must understand so they do not violate these laws and jeopardize their business. Pregnant workers are one of these protected classes. WHAT DO THE CURRENT LAWS SAY? Both federal and California laws prohibit pregnancy discrimination. State […]

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Consumers play a large role in a company’s success. That is why it is one of the primary goals of businesses to keep consumers happy, so they come back and help the business grow. However, consumers are not always easy to please. On occasion the smallest mistake or oversight could lead to complaints that pose […]

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The legal issues against rideshare companies Uber and Lyft keep mounting in California, as we have discussed before on this blog. Although Baker & Associates is not involved in these cases, the developments highlight critical issues of which employers must be aware. Many of the legal concerns began when California lawmakers passed Assembly Bill 5, which […]

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Business partners do not always see eye to eye. Sometimes these differences have simple solutions; they might even help partners to grow and develop their business. However, there are some disagreements that can strain the partnership – and jeopardize the business. Disagreements over expenses, draws, operations or intellectual property can quickly lead to legal issues […]

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Finances are often a priority for both employees and employers. That is why one of the most common issues employers face often involve wage and hour claims. Whether employees claim they did not receive proper pay for their overtime work, or that they experienced pay discrimination, these complaints can be complicated for employers. Employers could […]

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