California’s leave laws are some of the most employee-and lawsuit-friendly in the country. In this episode, Jen walks through the most common leave scenarios and the best practices for managing them without creating legal exposure.

Employment law risk doesn’t stand still—especially in California. In this episode, Jen discusses the key trends, enforcement priorities, and litigation risks employers should be watching this year, and how to stay ahead of them.

In this episode, Jen explains what information employers must include in the new “Know Your Rights” notice and why it may not be the best approach to use the DIR’s template version without tailoring it first.

A new year brings new compliance risks for California employers. In this episode, Jen breaks down the must-know employment law updates and practical steps employers should take right now to start the year protected - and avoid costly mistakes.

Employers who ignore wage judgments will face sharp consequences starting January 1, 2026 — including mandatory attorneys’ fees and triple the amount owed. Jen explains the new enforcement framework and what HR and payroll leaders can do now to prevent costly exposure.

Employers covered by Cal-WARN must now include new information in layoff and closure notices — including access to workforce development and food-assistance programs. Jen details what changed, who’s covered, and how to avoid a compliance crisis during a downsizing.

Pay equity is getting a major upgrade in 2026. SB 642 redefines “wages,” extends protections to non-binary employees, and tightens job-posting rules. Jen explains how these changes expand employer liability — and how to prepare your pay data before the March reporting deadline.

“Stay-or-pay” agreements — where employees must repay training or bonuses if they leave — are now off-limits in California (with narrow exceptions). Jen explains what counts as a prohibited repayment clause, how this law changes contract drafting, and what to do before January 1.