Frequently asked questions
Is The Guide a law firm?
1
No. The Guide is an employment-law support tool built by a California employment attorney. It gives you step-by-step guidance, forms, and updates, but it doesn't provide legal advice, and using it doesn't create an attorney-client relationship.
Do I get access to an attorney?
2
Not currently. The Guide gives you the steps, forms, and updates to handle common employee issues yourself. Attorney consultations are planned for a future plan.
Can this replace my employment lawyer?
3
No, and it isn't meant to. It handles the everyday questions so you aren't paying hourly rates for them. If you're facing a lawsuit, an agency claim, or a situation that turns on your specific facts, you should talk to an employment attorney.
What happens if I need more help?
4
Each guide flags the situations where you should get legal advice before acting. When you see that flag, talk to a California employment attorney.
Is this only for California businesses?
5
Yes. California employment law is different enough from other states that general advice often gets it wrong. Everything in The Guide is written for California.
Are the forms in Spanish?
6
Yes. Every form is available in English and Spanish.
What employee issues does it cover?
7
The ones California small businesses run into most: hiring, discipline and write-ups, leave requests, accommodations, wages and breaks, final pay, terminations, severance, and arbitration agreements.
Is this for businesses without an HR department?
8
That's exactly who it's for. It also helps an office manager or part-time HR person who needs to know the legal side.