Santa Ana Business Law Blog

All across America, states have been debating the possibility of legalizing marijuana use. Some cities and states already have local laws in place that make some provisions for marijuana use. Sometimes only medical use is allowed, while others have legislated for recreational use as well. Often touted as the free state out west, California nonetheless has some serious restrictions on cannabis use in public spaces.

According to Forbes, the official ruling on marijuana in California is that it does not mix with alcohol. Put simply, people cannot assume they have the right to sell marijuana or marijuana-infused beverages simply because they have a liquor license. In fact, California prohibits the sale and use of marijuana on premises licensed to sell alcohol. This may include restaurants and even private hotel rooms. It certainly includes wineries. Not even popular festivals may flout this law.

When you are in the process of getting your Santa Ana bar or restaurant off the ground, you need to make hundreds of important decisions. The employees you hire are likely some of the most important decisions you will make, as everyone from your manager to your chef to your waiters, bartenders, bussers and more will contribute to the success of your new business.

However, in the midst of such a busy time, many California bar and restaurant owners can overlook an important part of the hiring process: the employment contract or agreement. An employment agreement benefits both the employer and the employee by laying out clear terms for the employment relationship. While hiring employees via an oral or handshake agreement may seem convenient, it can be difficult to enforce in a future conflict. What do you need to know about employment agreements?

If you want to open a restaurant in California, there are many decisions and steps you need to take to ensure you do things properly. Besides the typical things you need for any business, starting a restaurant requires a number of additional licenses before you can open the doors and begin operating. 

According to the California Secretary of State, before you do anything you should have a business plan. This can help you organize everything and map out details. A good plan should discuss:

• Budgets
• Number of employees needed
• Potential investment sources
• Marketing and advertising plans 
• Location 
• Management structure
• Profit projections