PBO Advisory Group’s professionals help businesses manage evolving compliance requirements across HR, finance, and operational areas. We assess your organization’s current policies, procedures, and internal controls to identify gaps and provide practical recommendations to reduce risk and strengthen compliance.
Our team works to align your compliance practices with business goals and industry standards, helping you stay ahead of regulatory changes and avoid potential penalties, reputational damage, and operational disruptions. We also help build and reinforce a culture of compliance—one rooted in accountability, consistency, and transparency.
We also provide compliance support related to California’s Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA), including reviewing workplace policies, wage and hour practices, and employee classifications. In the event of a PAGA claim, we assist in conducting audits and implementing corrective actions to take advantage of the law’s cure provisions.
Our outsourced professionals are available to serve as advisors and/or provide hands-on support. Whether working on-site or remotely, we help you implement a scalable, proactive compliance strategy that supports long-term sustainability.
PBO Advisory Group helps organizations get and stay in compliance by offering strategic guidance and hands-on support, including:
- Compliance risk assessments
- Policy and procedure development
- Regulatory and legal monitoring
- Training and culture of compliance building
- Internal controls and governance oversight
- Specific regulatory guidance for PAGA, accounting standards, public reporting, etc.
- Audit and investigation preparedness
- Multi-state and remote workforce compliance support
Webinar: PAGA Claims
In this webinar, PBO Advisory Group’s Francesca San Diego, Nicole Devine and Joelle Verbestel team up with TencerSherman LLP Partner and employment law attorney Sam Sherman to explain how California’s Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) creates serious legal and financial risk for employers—and how recent updates to the law offer new opportunities for protection.
They share real examples of what triggers PAGA claims and what employers can do to respond quickly and effectively. From audits to policy updates, the conversation focuses on practical steps that can reduce exposure and help businesses stay compliant.
Avoiding Costly PAGA Claims: What Employers Need to Know
In this episode of PBO Perspectives in Business, Finance & HR, host Joey McCoy is joined by PBO Advisory Group CEO Francesca San Diego and Consulting Chief People Officer Nicole Devine to break down California’s Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) and its impact on employers.
They discuss the financial risks, recent legislative changes, and proactive steps—like audits, policy updates, and employee training—that can reduce penalties by up to 85%. The conversation also covers high-risk industries, payroll provider misconceptions, and the role of arbitration agreements in mitigating exposure.
What is PAGA and Why Should Companies Care About it?
California’s Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) gives employees the power to sue their employers for labor law violations—turning even small mistakes into big legal battles. Unlike class-action lawsuits, PAGA lets individual employees file claims on behalf of others, leading to massive penalties and costly litigation. Even minor issues like missed breaks, payroll errors, or time rounding can put businesses at risk. With new changes to the law in 2025, small and mid-sized companies need to understand how PAGA works and why it’s a growing concern.
Taking Reasonable Steps to Stay in Compliance with PAGA
Recent updates to California’s Private Attorney General Act (PAGA) give employers a way to reduce their risk of labor code violations if they take “reasonable steps” to stay compliant. With penalties stacking up quickly, even minor infractions can lead to six-figure costs, making proactive compliance a smart business move. Regular HR audits, proper record-keeping, and clear policies can help employers avoid these risks.
Management training and a strong compliance culture are just as important as policies on paper. A well-informed leadership team can catch potential violations early and prevent costly claims before they happen.
Maintaining Continuous Compliance: Beyond Your PAGA Experience
Dealing with a Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) claim can be a valuable learning experience—but it’s just the beginning when it comes to long-term compliance. A resolved claim shouldn’t lead to a false sense of security. To protect your business from future legal risks, proactive and ongoing efforts are essential. True compliance goes beyond fixing the issues tied to one claim—it requires regular audits, consistent training, and keeping your policies up to date. With a thoughtful, comprehensive strategy and the right expert support, you can create a resilient, compliant business ready to thrive in today’s complex legal environment.
Client Testimonial: A CEO’s Perspective on PBO Advisory’s PAGA Support
PAGA notices can catch even well-run companies off guard. For this CEO, working with PBO Advisory Group meant clarity, steady guidance, and a smooth audit process from start to finish. With only minor issues found and high praise from the legal team, this case shows how proactive HR support can keep your business on track—even under scrutiny.
PAGA Financial Implications for California Employers
California employers face a significant threat: Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) lawsuits. These claims can trigger a cascade of financial consequences, from hefty penalties and ballooning attorney fees to unexpected administrative costs. Are you prepared for the potential hit to your business?
This article cuts through the complexity, giving you the essential breakdown of PAGA’s financial implications. But it’s not just about the bad news. We’ll also show you how proactive compliance – including strategic compliance audits – can be your strongest defense. Discover how to protect your company, potentially save significant money, and foster a culture of compliance that benefits everyone.
