In Dynamex Operations West, Inc. v. the Superior Court of Los Angeles County, the California Supreme Court adopted a new standard to determine whether a worker is properly classified as an employee or an independent contractor. The simplified standard, known as the ABC test, looks at three required factors to determine a valid independent contractor who would not be subject to one of California’s wage orders and other employer obligations: [...]
Three months after the devastating Thomas Fire and Montecito mudslides, we continue to see questions regarding disaster recovery, especially from business owners. Last month’s Advisor covered insurance issues; this month, I want to focus on other strategies for weathering the aftermath of what has been a tough six months for our community. While insurance is [...]
At some point, the records management policies and practices of all businesses are tested. Thus, it is critical that businesses have a comprehensive records management policy and that managers and staff have a complete understanding of such policies and procedures. Not surprisingly, California law requires employers to keep certain records for specific amounts of time. [...]
The Thomas Fire and ensuing mudslides devastated our community and caught many businesses by surprise. In addition to the tremendous damage and loss of life they wrought upon us, these disasters have demonstrated the importance of having a good business insurance policy. Standard business interruption insurance policies typically cover profits, fixed costs, temporary relocation, reimbursement [...]
Rebuilding the local business scene is going to take more than just hoping for the best. Thankfully, the Santa Barbara community is making moves to preserve local businesses and bring tourism back. FLAS Partner Trevor Large, in his capacity as President of Hospitality Santa Barbara, has taken an active role in collaborating with the City of [...]
The Thomas Fire, the largest wildfire in California history, and the subsequent flooding in the Montecito area were catastrophic. There was a significant loss of life, homes and properties. Our community spirit is regaining itself, as we all pull together to assist those in need, some having to revive their lives. Our attorneys are assisting [...]
Taxes… Taxes… Taxes are at the forefront of our conversation. Are you a winner or a loser under the new paradigm? How do you better your positioning; change your business structure, your estate planning? Businesses and corporations are clearly winners under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Tax Cuts Act). Businesses Preferred. Our country’s federal [...]
We are proud to announce that BFAS received the Goleta's Finest Award for Small Business of the Year!
Donning our N95 masks for another day in smoke-filled Santa Barbara, we watch in awe while more than 7,000 firefighters do battle with the Thomas fire as it continues to threaten our communities. Western Ventura County has been devastated by the loss of more than 900 homes (and counting). Neighborhoods at the east-end of Carpinteria, [...]
As 2017 draws to a close, it is time to start planning for 2018. As a small business owner, now is a good time to check the legal aspects of your business to ensure you in good standing. Here are a few items every small business should complete as part of your year-end legal [...]
