Discrimination and harassment based on statutorily protected characteristics are prohibited under federal and California law, such as the federally enacted Title VII and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act.

The Americans with Disabilities Act and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act protect employees who are qualified individuals with a disability, and also require employers to provide reasonable accommodation when appropriate.

Employees leaving a company may be bound by certain confidentiality obligations as well as other contractual terms with the former employer, the violation of which could give rise to monetary damages and injunctive relief.

Employees are afforded protection for exercising the right to take leaves under various federal and California laws, including the Federal Medical Leave Act and the California Family Rights Act, which often have an intricate interplay with disability protection laws.

Employers could be found liable for misclassification of their employees’ exempt status, as well as failure to provide overtime compensation, rest and meal breaks, and inadequate wage statements.

The implementation of best practices and establishment of sound personnel policies could effectively limit exposure of future litigation.