After two years of the Covid-19 pandemic, things are looking optimistic in California. Covid case numbers and hospitalizations are declining and mask requirements are loosening. For many, myself included, this is great news and a much needed “return to normal.” At the same time, however, the pandemic brought some changes to our lives that we

Alison Kalinski
Litigating During a Pandemic
This article was originally published in October 2020. The information has been reviewed and is up-to-date as of November 2021. Though the state of California is now opening up increasingly due to improving pandemic numbers, the details included in this blog continue to serve as helpful tips during this time.
I moved to Los Angeles…
What To Do When Employees Decline COVID-19 Vaccinations?
One year after the public health emergency caused by COVID-19 began, hope is on the horizon as vaccine production and distribution increases and eligibility criteria for vaccinations expands. With many employees teleworking during the pandemic, employers are starting to consider post-pandemic working arrangements, including the return of employees to the workplace. As employers think about…
I’m Stressed Out! Can I Bring My Dog to Work?
Employers know they need to accommodate a disabled employee’s request to bring a service dog to work. However, what happens when employees claim they are stressed and need to bring their dog to work for emotional support? Here are the top five questions on emotional support dogs:
1. Do we need to allow an employee…
The U.S. Supreme Court Rules That Title VII Protects LGBTQ Workers
On June 15, 2020, the United States Supreme Court ruled that Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act protects gay and transgender employees from discrimination. The Court’s decision was 6-3 and the opinion was authored by Justice Gorsuch, who was joined in the decision by Chief Justice Roberts and Justices Ginsburg, Breyer, Sotomayor and…
Working From Home + Homeschooling – A Journey During A Pandemic
I’ve been working from home since March 16, 2020 when my children’s school closed. I am not alone – with the COVID-19 pandemic and safer at home orders, many employees across the country have been working from home. While restrictions may be easing, without schools reopening, many parents are balancing their roles as teachers, parents,…