California, September 12, 2025
News Summary
In July 2023, Falina Marihart launched MP Consultants, a consultancy dedicated to helping California restaurant owners navigate payroll compliance amid increasing legal challenges. With the rise in lawsuits under California’s Private Attorney General Act (PAGA), many restaurateurs face significant risks. MP Consultants offers educational resources and audits to assist restaurant owners in understanding complex labor laws, reducing their legal liabilities, and ensuring compliance.
California Restaurants Gain New Resource for Payroll Compliance
In July 2023, Falina Marihart launched MP Consultants, a consultancy aimed at assisting restaurant owners across California with payroll compliance challenges. As a seasoned restaurateur known for her establishments such as 13 Prime Steak in Clovis and Yolked Kitchen at Parkway Trails Shopping Center, Marihart founded this firm in response to growing legal concerns stemming from California’s Complex labor laws.
The introduction of MP Consultants comes at a time when lawsuits filed under California’s Private Attorney General Act (PAGA) are on the rise. This legislation permits employees to pursue claims against employers over wage-related issues, which has become a significant source of liability for many restaurant owners.
Many restaurant businesses, whether they are new or well-established, face substantial risks if they are not aware of the latest labor regulations. Marihart pointed out that complex laws regarding employee payments, overtime wages, and shift rules can often leave owners vulnerable to violations. Furthermore, variations in payroll and wage rules can differ significantly not just from state to state, but city to city, increasing the challenges restaurant owners must navigate.
Since its establishment, MP Consultants has received encouraging responses from industry stakeholders and has already participated in events like the California Restaurant Show in Anaheim, where they networked with both restaurant and franchise owners. The consultancy’s mission is to educate restaurant operators about payroll compliance, ultimately helping them reduce legal liabilities associated with payroll errors. MP Consultants operates in a non-regulatory capacity, focusing on providing guidance rather than acting as an enforcement body.
One of the significant challenges faced by restaurant owners involves misunderstanding payroll responsibilities. Marihart noted that many payroll companies do not fully grasp the details surrounding employee wages, which can lead to significant misassumptions by owners. To combat these issues, MP Consultants collaborates closely with the California Restaurant Association (CRA) to widen its service offerings and outreach.
To enhance the advisory services offered, Marihart has teamed up with Payroll Expert Kimberly Smith, PHRca, to conduct compliance audits for clients. This pairing combines practical expertise with extensive industry knowledge to better support restaurant owners. Services provided are accessible through the company’s website, mypayrollaudit.com, and can also be contacted via phone for personalized assistance.Â
Utilizing her vast experience in the restaurant industry and a position on the CRA board, Marihart is dedicated to helping local businesses navigate the complexities of payroll compliance. As California’s restaurant industry continues to evolve, MP Consultants strives to be a vital resource for operators seeking to adhere to ever-changing labor laws and protect themselves from potential legal issues.
FAQ
What is MP Consultants?
MP Consultants is a consultancy founded by Falina Marihart that provides guidance on payroll compliance for restaurant owners in California.
Why was MP Consultants established?
It was established due to the rise in lawsuits under California’s Private Attorney General Act (PAGA), which has increased legal risks for restaurant owners regarding wage-related claims.
How does MP Consultants help restaurant owners?
The consultancy helps restaurant owners by educating them on labor laws related to payroll compliance, reducing their legal liability and risk of lawsuits.
Who can access MP Consultants’ services?
MP Consultants’ services can be accessed by restaurant owners throughout California online at mypayrollaudit.com or by contacting them via phone.
Key Features of MP Consultants
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded by Industry Expert | Established by Falina Marihart, a seasoned restaurateur with extensive experience. |
| Focus on Payroll Compliance | Provides guidance on complex labor laws and payroll responsibilities. |
| Collaborations | Works with the California Restaurant Association and payroll experts for comprehensive audits. |
| Target Audience | Caters to restaurant owners in California, both new and experienced. |
| Accessibility | Services offered online and via phone for convenience. |
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
- Los Angeles Times: Luxurious Santa Monica Proper Hotel Accused of Failing to Pay Staff Minimum Wage
- Wikipedia: California Labor Law
- Google Search: California Minimum Wage Laws
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MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER The MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMissionViejo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Mission Viejo, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Oso Fit 5K Fun Run and Community Health Fair, Walk Against Drugs & Community Fair, and National Night Out. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce and Providence Mission Hospital Mission Viejo, plus leading businesses in retail and education that power the local economy such as The Shops at Mission Viejo, Capistrano Unified School District, and Amazon Delivery Station. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
