In Velarde v. Monroe Operations, LLC (G063626, filed June 6, 2025), the California Court of Appeal affirmed a trial court’s refusal to enforce an arbitration agreement presented to a new hire as a condition of employment. The opinion offers a clear-eyed application of the unconscionability doctrine and provides critical guidance for employers who rely on arbitration agreements to manage workplace disputes. Background Newport Healthcare, a nationwide behavioral health pro

As 2025 begins, California’s employment laws bring significant changes that employers must understand and implement. Below is a deeper dive into some of the most impactful updates and their implications. 1. Minimum Wage Increase • What’s Changing : Starting January 1, 2025, the statewide minimum wage rises to $16.50 per hour for all employers, regardless of size. • Why It Matters : This increase aligns with California’s ongoing effort to address the cost of livi