Let’s talk about something we see all the time: businesses using free online templates for important employment documents. That includes things like arbitration agreements, NDAs, separation agreements, offer letters, and meal period waivers. And we’ve only started to see the beautiful yet destructive fun that’s coming out of ChatGPT searches!
It’s understandable. Templates are quick, accessible, and seem like a cost-saving shortcut. But in California, where employment laws are some of the most complex in the country, generic documents can lead to very real and very expensive problems. We’ve reviewed agreements downloaded from national HR sites or shared informally between companies that are missing key language, include unenforceable terms, or don’t reflect current legal requirements. In some cases, these documents actually create more risk than having nothing at all.
The reality is that employment documents are not one-size-fits-all. Every business is different, every situation is different (even though it may seem like a run of the mill termination…) and California law doesn’t leave much room for error, especially when it comes to employee rights, arbitration enforceability, and wage and hour rules. That’s why it’s so important to use well-drafted, California-specific agreements that are tailored for each situation. Whether you’re hiring, making organizational changes, updating policies, or ending a working relationship, clean and compliant paperwork is one of the best protections you have.
If you’re currently relying on templates or unsure whether your documents are still up to date, we encourage you to reach out. At The Mitzel Group, we are here to help you build tailored, enforceable documents that protect your team and your company. We’re here to support you when you’re ready.
