The allure of doing business in California is undeniable. It is the world’s fifth largest economy (moving toward fourth) and a market of more than 39 million people. For employers, however, California presents unique challenges because its laws differ significantly from federal laws and those of other states. California employment laws are the most far-reaching in the nation, usually providing workers significantly greater levels of protection than those offered by other states or by federal laws. These differences can create traps for the unwary employer.

Table of Contents

• Wage and Hour Laws
• Leave Laws
• Discrimination and Harassment
• Domestic Partners
• Other Employment Issues
• Litigation
• What Employers Can Do to Protect Themselves