The allure of doing business in California is undeniable. It is the world’s fifth (and was briefly the fourth) largest economy and a market of over 39 million people. For employers, however, California presents unique challenges because its laws differ significantly from those of other states and the federal government. California employment laws are the most far-reaching in the nation, usually providing workers significantly greater levels of protection than those offered elsewhere. 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