A Performance Improvement Plan—commonly referred to as a PIP—has become a standard tool in modern workplace management. While once associated primarily with hourly or lower-level employees, PIPs are now frequently used across a wide range of professions, including...
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Unlock a wealth of knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of California’s employment law landscape. Our blog is a treasure trove of insightful posts authored by Matt Ruggles, exploring the latest trends, legal updates, and practical advice.
Matthew J. Ruggles
30+ Years of Employment Litigation Experience
How Do I Resolve a Commission Dispute in California?
If you work in sales or any role where commissions make up part of your compensation, it’s essential to understand your rights under California law. A commission dispute over unpaid or charged back commissions is common—and often arises when employers fail to follow...
What Is a Compensation Plan in California?
If you receive commissions, bonuses, or other variable pay, your employer may have referred you to your “compensation plan.” But what exactly is a compensation plan in California—and what happens if your employer doesn’t follow it? This blog explains what a...
What Is an Advanced Commission in California?
If your paycheck includes commissions, you may have heard your employer refer to certain payments as an “advance.” But what exactly is an advanced commission—and what happens if you don’t stay employed long enough to “earn” the “advanced” commission? This blog...
What Is a Commission Chargeback in California?
If you earn commissions in California, you may have heard the term “chargeback” or “clawback” —when an employer takes back a commission you’ve already been paid. But is that legal? And under what conditions can your employer reclaim money from your paycheck? This blog...
What Are Earned Wages in California?
If your employer hasn’t paid you everything you’re owed, you may be wondering what exactly counts as a “wage” and when that wage becomes “earned.” Under California law, wages include not just hourly pay and salaries—but also commissions, bonuses, and other forms of...
Is Being Fired After Filing a Complaint Considered Wrongful Termination?
Being fired after filing a complaint at work may be considered wrongful termination in the form of workplace retaliation and/or “whistleblowing,” but only if the complaint filed involves a legally protected issue under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act...
Should I Attempt to Negotiate My Severance Offer?
If you've recently been terminated, you may be wondering if you should attempt to negotiate the severance offer. While it's always possible to attempt negotiation, the real question is whether you have a realistic chance of improving your offer by yourself. The...
Commission Chargebacks in California: The Great Rip-Off Scheme
Some California employers are stealing employees' hard-earned wages under the false claim that commissions are merely "advances" — even when those commissions have already been earned. By disguising illegal deductions as lawful commission chargebacks, these employers...
How Do I Select a California Employment Lawyer?
Selecting a California Employment Lawyer: A Practical Guide for Employees Selecting the right California employment lawyer can be the key to a successful outcome when you’re facing a legal problem related to your employment in California. Because there is no formal...
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