Legal Question in Business Law in California

Is My Company Legal?

I am currently working for a commission only job in California that requires me to drive for a living and work from home. They provided me with a computer/printer but not with a case and refuse to reimburse it, which I need in every clients home. Is that illegal? also, they have now changed their mileage to include a ''40 mile a day commute (20 each way)'' which is not reimbursed. Is this legal? Also, we have appointments set up throughout the day and we have our appointments blocked (without our consent) when we have non-paid ''Non Mandatory'' meetings so it pretty much makes you go. Is that legal? Finally, does your superior have the power to take away your appointments and move them to other workers and have the ability to block your schedule completely and time of the day to talk to you, preventing you from making money? I know it's a few questions, but I do feel they are tricking everyone out of making money, which is so desperately needed in these economic times. Thank You!


Asked on 2/21/09, 2:40 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Bryan Whipple Bryan R. R. Whipple, Attorney at Law

Re: Is My Company Legal?

In general, all legal. I assume there is no written contract, or if there is, it has no guaranteed duration and is terminable at will.

In "at will" arrangements, the employer can generally, but not always, change the terms of employment, rate of pay, benefit policies, and things of this type so long as the employee (or independent contractor) is clearly notified in advance. An employer cannot, however, reduce an employee's rate of pay or stretch out paydays retroactively.

Further, the advance notice needs to be given clearly - meaning in a way the employee is sure to receive the notice, and in language that can be plainly understood.

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Answered on 2/21/09, 4:03 pm


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