A trade secret is, essentially, information of commercial value that is kept secret by those who have an interest in protecting and benefitting from its value. The attribute of secrecy is fundamental to whether certain information qualifies as a trade secret. Unless the entity possessing the information makes a reasonable effort to maintain the secrecy of the information, the information...
Continue ReadingIf you are reading this, it’s probably because you’re facing a work-related problem. Maybe you’re worried that you’ve been discriminated against in the hiring process because of your race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. Maybe there’s a problem with the way your company has been treating you, how much they’ve been paying you, or how many hours they ask...
Continue ReadingA Guide to Minimum Wage Laws in California for Employees Minimum wage refers to the minimum hourly rate of pay that employees must be paid for their work. Generally, employees must be paid the highest minimum wage that has been established for the jurisdiction in which they work. Our California employment lawyers will explain. Please don’t hesitate to call our firm...
Continue ReadingA California independent contractor has different legal rights and obligations than an employee. The distinction between these arrangements can have dramatic consequences for workers and companies. According to an article from the Los Angeles Times, the hiring of California workers as independent contractors has recently “exploded.” The article cites a 2016 study by economists that estimates that twelve and a...
Continue ReadingAn encouraging new trend we have seen lately is more states enacting laws or enhancing existing laws that limit the enforceability of non-compete clauses. The specific laws that apply to non-compete clauses in employment contracts vary greatly from one state to another. While some of the basic law around this area is outlined in court opinions — or “case...
Continue ReadingFinancial Executive? Get the Latest Employment Law Advice from Ottinger Employment Lawyers As a financial executive, you need the latest and best information regarding Non-Compete agreements, Severance packages, Commission and Bonus Disputes and other important areas of employment law that directly affect your career. Ottinger Employment Lawyers is proud to present our special “Financial Executive” page designed exclusively for...
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