Employment Law Updates

EMPLOYMENT LAW UPDATES

Corporate Transparency Act: What It Means to You

Partner Corinne Spencer and Affiliated Counsel Shaune Arnold, Managing Partner of Finney Arnold, LLP, discussed the Corporate Transparency Act and how it affects various types of entities in a recent interview with Los Angeles Business Journal and San Fernando Valley Business Journal. Learn more here.

Restrictions on Using Criminal History in Hiring

The California Fair Chance Act restricts employers from asking about and considering criminal histories in hiring. Partner Corinne Spencer explained the new regulations in depth as a guest on the Good Morning, HR podcast.

California Employers Remain Vulnerable to Unwieldy PAGA Claims

In January, the California Supreme Court concluded in Estrada v. Royalty Carpet Mills, Inc. that manageability arguments alone can no longer be grounds for dismissal of a Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) claim. Partner Corinne Spencer examines what this means for Golden State employers, read more here.

Legal Changes Employers Need to Know About

California has lifted its isolation requirements for asymptomatic individuals with COVID-19. And a new law that took effect January 1, 2024, makes it unlawful to include noncompete agreements and clauses in employment contracts. Employers must notify current and former employees if clauses and agreements are void. Read more about these legal updates and actions to take.

Preventing Workplace Disputes: A Proactive Approach

Workplace conflict can impact employee morale, retention and productivity. Our employment lawyers provide five strategic tips on resolving disputes before they become unmanageable and affect your company’s bottom line.

Recent Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) Updates

• Admonishment of defense counsel for violating WCAB Rule 10945
• WCAB issues Notice of Intent to impose sanctions and reasonable expenses against defense and carrier
• WCAB panel decision instructive on issues related to death cases

EVENTS AND WEBINARS

PBW Presents at California DWC Workers’ Compensation Educational Conference

PBW attorneys are presenting at the 31^st Annual DWC Educational Conference in Los Angeles on March 21-22. Senior Partner Yvonne Lang and Partner Nikki Mehrpoo will speak about women in law and business. Attorney Ray Correio will discuss key apportionment issues and cases. The attorneys also presented on these topics at the March 7-8 Oakland conference.

Cal/OSHA is Knocking—Are You Ready?

Senior Associates Saerim Luciano and Jonathan Brown provided legal insights on Cal/OSHA investigations and reporting to the Professionals in Human Resources Association (PIHRA) Woodland Hills chapter in January. Go here for more on the presentation.

TEAM SPOTLIGHTS

PBW Congratulates Partner Bonnie Stern

Partner Bonnie Stern has retired after more than 20 years handling complex workers’ comp matters for PBW. As she starts this new chapter in life, we extend our gratitude for her significant contributions to our clients and the firm.

Tiffany Fong’s Festive Family Traditions

HR Director Tiffany Fong “dishes” on the traditional foods eaten during the Lunar New Year and talks about other customs during the festivities. Read the spotlight interview here.