Just like large companies, small businesses can leverage the opportunities that joint ventures can provide to thrive in today’s economy. Entering into a joint venture with other businesses and entrepreneurs could open the doors to gaining access to more capital, offering more services to clients and may help many small businesses thrive in today’s business landscape. In this article, we will explore some essential tips and considerations before entering into such partnerships. Reasons For Entering A Joint VentureEntering a joint venture can be a strategic move for small businesses to leverage the advantages that collaboration and partnership bring. By tapping... READ MORE

Over the last several years, remote working has radically changed the traditional office workforce.  With employees no longer physically present in the office, employers face new challenges in effectively managing remote workers to ensure their productivity and compliance with company policies and California’s extensive employment laws.   While there are certainly advantages for employers to have remote workers such as savings in office space expenditures and improved employee morale, there are important considerations to be taken into account whenever remote working arrangements are being used by employers.  Below are some key considerations and requirements that all employers should know. Develop and Implement... READ MORE

The state of California currently sets the minimum wage rate at $15.50 per hour. However, for employers with employees that work in specific cities (see below) the employers must also comply with local city minimum wage requirements when it is higher than the state mandated rate. Effective July 1, 2023, employers with employees in the following local cities, and unincorporated Los Angeles, will need to increase their minimum wage rate of pay as follows: Los Angeles City: $16.78/hour;Los Angeles County (unincorporated areas): $16.90/hour;Malibu: $16.90/hour;Pasadena: $16.93/hour;Santa Monica: $16.90/hour; andWest Hollywood: $19.08/hour   Employers whose employees work remotely in any of these... READ MORE

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized various industries, including creative services like marketing, graphic design, website development as well as legal services. One key question that arises is whether a professional needs to disclose the use of AI in their work. As legal jurisdiction and case law have yet to fully play out exactly where things may go, in this article, we delve into the topic and provide what we believe to be best practices in a new world as more professionals use AI in their business. Understanding What AI Is and How It Can Be Used AI technology has been... READ MORE

Whether your company is a large or small employer, there are five essential documents that should be implemented and distributed to your employees that will serve to both protect (as best as possible) the organization from employment-based claims as well as to keep your employees informed and notified of expectations concerning their employment.  Consultation with experienced employment counsel, who can aid in preparing these various documents is highly recommended.  The following are the top five essential employment documents every employer should have. Offer Letter Once a decision has been made to hire an employee, the critical terms and conditions of... READ MORE

As a small business owner, it's essential to understand the legalities surrounding credit card fees to avoid any potential legal issues with your clients. Recently, a question was raised where a client was charged for credit card fees and the client claimed that it is illegal to charge for those fees in California. Here’s the background and how it may apply to your business. While the California Civil Code Section 1748.1 prohibits retailers, including service providers, from imposing surcharges on customers who choose to pay with a credit card, it also allows retailers to offer discounts to encourage payment by... READ MORE

By Scott Liner, Employment Attorney California employers must meet all state and federal requirements related to posting employment-related information in the workplace. Specifically, the California Department of Industrial Relations requires employers to post information related to wages, hours and working conditions in an area frequented by employees where it may be easily read during the workday. The required posters can be seen here by clicking on this link to the Department of Industrial Relations. Federal law required postings can be viewed by clicking here. Many of the workplace posters are available at no cost from the requiring agency or can... READ MORE

By Brian H. Cole, Franchise and Distribution Law For anyone considering starting a new business, there are many advantages to buying a franchise. Some of the most important are the guidance and training provided by the franchisor. The franchisor can help choose a location, provide guidance on the necessary equipment and inventory needed, and conduct a training class that compresses what could otherwise be a long period of trial-and-error learning into a class (or series of classes). But before buying any franchise, it is critical to evaluate the franchise opportunity to be certain that it’s the best option. There are... READ MORE

We can’t emphasize enough just how important it is for business owners to protect their intellectual property, including trademarks. A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol, or design that identifies and distinguishes a company's products or services from those of others in the marketplace. This is what makes your brand memorable and recognizable.  When Should You File a Trademark? Small business owners should also consider the timing of their trademark filing and do the research. The simplest way to see if your brand is already in use is by doing a simple google search and a trademark search at the... READ MORE

Theft and burglary can be devastating for small businesses, both financially and emotionally. However, there are several steps business owners can take to minimize the risk of theft and protect their assets. Secure the premisesThe first step in protecting your small business against burglary is to secure your physical premises. This can include installing a security system, including well-placed cameras and alarms, and making sure all entrances and windows are properly secured. Keeping the premises well-lit, both inside and outside is important and local law enforcement officers have advised that you do not obstruct the windows or view into your... READ MORE