California, September 12, 2025
News Summary
Falina Marihart, a restaurateur, has launched MP Consultants to assist California restaurant owners with payroll compliance. The firm addresses the growing challenges posed by California’s labor laws, particularly the Private Attorney General Act (PAGA), which allows employees to file lawsuits concerning wage-related issues. MP Consultants aims to educate and support restaurant owners in navigating complex payroll regulations to mitigate legal risks. The initiative has received positive feedback and collaborates with the California Restaurant Association to enhance service offerings in the industry.
California Restaurant Owner Launches Consulting Firm to Aid Payroll Compliance
In response to rising challenges in wage-related compliance, restaurateur Falina Marihart has launched MP Consultants, aimed at assisting California restaurant owners with payroll compliance. Established in July 2023, the firm targets the increasing legal risks faced by the industry, especially under California’s Private Attorney General Act (PAGA). This act enables employees to file lawsuits against their employers over wage-related issues.
Marihart, known for her successful ventures including 13 Prime Steak in Clovis and Yolked Kitchen in the Parkway Trails Shopping Center, observed a distressing trend where many restaurant owners were unaware of the complexities involved in payroll and wage laws. With the intricacies of employee payments, overtime, and shifting regulations varying significantly not just from state to state but also between cities, many owners find themselves precariously positioned to face potential lawsuits.
The Impact of California Labor Regulations
The fast-evolving landscape of California labor regulations presents substantial challenges for restaurant owners, regardless of their experience level. Financial risks can mount when business owners do not stay informed about the latest compliance requirements. Marihart’s initiative comes in the wake of an increasing number of lawsuits, which have created an urgent need for education tailored to payroll responsibilities.
MP Consultants offers a collaborative approach to addressing these issues, working alongside the California Restaurant Association (CRA) to enhance its support network for restaurant owners. Additionally, Marihart has joined forces with Payroll Expert Kimberly Smith, PHRca, to conduct thorough audits that further ensure compliance and reduce liability for clients.
Positive Reception and Outreach Efforts
Since its inception, MP Consultants has received commendable feedback. The firm actively participated in the California Restaurant Show in Anaheim, facilitating networking opportunities with both restaurant and franchise owners. This platform allowed Marihart to extend her outreach and educate attendees about the critical nature of payroll compliance in the industry.
MP Consultants operates in a non-regulatory capacity, providing private guidance rather than acting as enforcement officers. The aim is to educate restaurant owners about their responsibilities and best practices, effectively empowering them to navigate the complexities of labor regulations.
Accessing MP Consultants’ Services
Restaurant owners throughout California can easily access the services of MP Consultants. Information about the firm and its offerings can be found online at mypayrollaudit.com or by contacting them directly via phone. Marihart intends to leverage her extensive industry experience and role on the CRA board to foster an environment of compliance and support within the restaurant community.
Key Features of MP Consultants
- Founded by experienced restaurateur Falina Marihart
- Provides guidance on payroll compliance
- Responds to rising lawsuits under PAGA
- Specializes in complex labor laws varying by location
- Partners with CRA for enhanced service offerings
- Conducts audits with Payroll Expert Kimberly Smith
- Accessible online services for restaurants across California
Conclusion
As California’s restaurant industry navigates stringent labor regulations, MP Consultants stands out as a crucial resource for owners seeking to minimize legal risks associated with payroll compliance. Through education and strategic guidance, the firm aims to empower restaurateurs and foster a more compliant industry landscape.
FAQ Section
What is MP Consultants?
MP Consultants is a consulting firm founded in July 2023 by Falina Marihart to help California restaurant owners navigate payroll compliance and reduce legal risks.
Why was MP Consultants established?
The firm was established in response to the increasing number of lawsuits filed under California’s Private Attorney General Act (PAGA), which affects wage-related claims against employers in the restaurant industry.
Who is Falina Marihart?
Falina Marihart is an experienced restaurateur known for her establishments including 13 Prime Steak and Yolked Kitchen in California. She has extensive knowledge of the restaurant industry and serves on the board of the California Restaurant Association.
What services does MP Consultants offer?
MP Consultants provides guidance on payroll compliance, including educational resources and audit services to help restaurant owners understand and meet their legal obligations.
How can restaurant owners contact MP Consultants?
Restaurant owners can access information about MP Consultants online at mypayrollaudit.com or by contacting them via phone.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- The Business Journal: Fresno Entrepreneur Tackles Payroll Pitfalls for California Eateries
- California Employment Law Report: Preparing for Another Fast Food Minimum Wage Hike in California
- PR Newswire: isolved Launches Tailored Restaurant Solutions
- Los Angeles Times: Luxurious Santa Monica Proper Hotel Accused of Failing to Pay Staff Minimum Wage
- Forbes: Best Payroll Services
- Wikipedia: California Labor Law
- Google Search: California Minimum Wage
- Google Scholar: California Labor Regulations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Labor Law
- Google News: California Restaurant Industry
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