19 Feb 2025
The gig economy has revolutionized the way people work, providing flexibility and opportunities to earn income on demand. However, this innovation has also raised significant legal and regulatory questions, particularly about worker classification. In California, the ABC Test, introduced under Assembly Bill 5 (AB 5), has emerged as a pivotal framework in determining whether gig...
18 Feb 2025
When submitting a trademark application to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), one potential obstacle an applicant may encounter is the rejection of a mark for being “merely a surname.” Under U.S. trademark law, certain marks that consist exclusively of a surname are not eligible for registration unless specific conditions are met. This...
28 Jan 2025
In the fast-paced world of startups, where innovation and differentiation are key to success, protecting intellectual property (IP) is crucial. Whether you’re launching a groundbreaking app, developing a unique product, or creating cutting-edge software, your intellectual assets are one of the most valuable components of your business. Understanding and securing intellectual property rights can make...
24 Jan 2025
Laws regarding Paid Sick leave are constantly changing, good legal representation is key for employers to help avoid liability! The following are a few laws enacted in California recently that address sick leave:AB 1041 (2022) – Expansion of Family Member Definition for Sick Leave:AB 1041 expanded the definition of a “family member” for the purposes...
23 Jan 2025
California’s mandatory paid sick leave law, codified under Labor Code Section 246, has been a cornerstone of worker protection in the state. Enacted through the Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act of 2014, the law requires employers to provide paid sick leave to employees, marking a significant shift in the landscape of employee rights. This article...
22 Jan 2025
In California, the right to take sick leave is a critical protection afforded to employees. Employers must be aware not only of the requirements to provide paid sick leave but also of the legitimate reasons employees are allowed to take such leave. Understanding these reasons is essential for ensuring compliance with state laws, avoiding potential...
21 Jan 2025
Retaliation in employment law refers to an employer taking unfavorable action against an employee for engaging in protected activity. It is illegal for employers to retaliate against employees who assert their rights under various laws. Here’s a breakdown of what is typically covered under retaliation in employment law: 1. Protected Activities Employees are protected from...
17 Jan 2025
In California, employee rights regarding meal and rest breaks are established by both state labor laws and specific regulations outlined by the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR). These laws are designed to protect workers, ensuring they are not overworked and have time to rest and refresh during their shifts. Understanding the rules for meal...
16 Jan 2025
Patent marking is the process of labeling a patented article or product with information about the patent that covers that product or article. This can include details of an issued patent or when a patent application is pending. The purpose of patent marking is for patent owners to give notice to the public of their...
15 Jan 2025
Non-compete clauses are a common feature in many employment contracts, typically designed to prevent employees from joining competing businesses or starting their own ventures after leaving the company. However, in California, these clauses are subject to strict legal limitations, with recent updates further reinforcing employees’ rights. Below is an overview of California’s laws regarding non-compete...
14 Jan 2025
Intellectual Property (IP) refers to creations of the mind—such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce—that are protected by law. The purpose of intellectual property rights is to give creators exclusive rights to their creations, allowing them to benefit financially from their work. There are several types of...
14 Jan 2025
In recent years, unpaid internships have become a common practice across many industries, offering students and young professionals opportunities to gain hands-on experience. However, these internships are often met with criticism and concern over their legality and fairness. In California, where labor laws are some of the most protective in the United States, the question...