Los Angeles Sexual Harassment Lawyers
Let’s say a colleague makes sexual innuendos at an event. It’s not the first time they have made the uncomfortable proposition. By now, their behavior is making you uncomfortable. You love your job and fear making waves as it may hurt your career.
The above example gives you an idea of sexual harassment in the workplace. But most people don’t know that every employee harassed has a unique experience. It means sexual harassment takes many forms.
When you go through such as experience, you may ask, ”Was this even sexual harassment? How should I respond? Should I report the harassment?”
If you find yourself in such a situation, contact a Los Angeles sexual harassment attorney. Employment law attorneys who represent victims of workplace sexual harassment will help hold your employer responsible for a toxic environment and protect you from retaliation against you for reporting the incident.
Here are the common types of harassment and how to handle such issues. Read on to have a better understanding of what is and what is not sexual harassment.
How Does California Law Describe Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
Sexual harassment under California law refers to any form of sexual discrimination that violates the Fair Employment and Housing Act (”FEHA”) and The Civil Rights Act of 1964 (”Title VII”).
These laws apply to different forms of sexual misconduct. They include displaying lewd pictures, unwanted sexual propositions, or making rude gestures.
California law states that employers with 50 or more employees should provide sexual harassment training to supervisors. The training will educate them on how to prevent and handle sexual harassment.
Common Types of Harassment
1. Quid Pro Quo
It is a form of harassment where a senior person requests sexual favors from their staff. It takes many forms, including:
- A supervisor firing a worker for not accepting their sexual advances
- A boss reducing the work hours of an employee because they refused their sexual advances
- The owner of a company promises to give a subordinate employee a raise if they engage in sexual conduct
- A boss promising an employee promotion if they accept their sexual advances
These violations are committed impliedly or expressly. Any form of benefit promised in exchange for sexual favor is harassment.
2. Hostile Work Environment
This type of harassment is conduct that makes it hard for a person to do their job. It creates an abusive work environment.
For example, a colleague may make sexual advances or tell dirty jokes. This is unlawful if it is motivated by sexual desire.
This form of workplace harassment is not like quid pro quo. It focuses on how offensive or hostile the nature of conduct is as a whole and not a single incident. This type of harassment can happen to a individual or group at the workplace.
3. ”Non-Direct” Sexual Harassment
Quid pro quo and hostile work environments are direct forms of sexual harassment. In simple terms, the conduct is only directed towards one person or a group of individuals.
With ”Non-Direct”, another person is offended by sexual misconduct inflicted on another person. For example, a worker may overhear sexually offensive comments uttered to their colleague.
Other Forms of Sexual Harassment Outlined by California Law
The state constitution also protects employees against sexual harassment in California. California’s constitution prohibits sexual harassment at the workplace for the following reasons:
- Pregnancy-related medical issues
- Childbirth
- Sex
- Gender
- Marital status
- Sexual orientation or
- Gender identity
This shows that sexual misconduct alone does not translate to sexual harassment. Some behaviors may be considered sexual harassment. For instance, if a colleague harasses, intimidates, and acts offensively towards another employee.
How to Handle Sexual Harassment Issues
If you are experiencing sexual harassment at work, first read the company’s policy. Employers don’t provide employees with a lawyer to file a claim against the company. So, you need to hire a Los Angeles sex harassment attorney.
They will explain to you how you should handle the harassment. Before contacting a lawyer, write down everything that happened. Include what was said, when, by whom, and names of witnesses if there were any.
Provide this information to your lawyer. They will use it as evidence in a compelling way to maximize the financial damages you will receive.
There are many benefits of seeing a lawyer before reporting sexual harassment. They include:
1. Help You to Protect Yourself
A sex harassment attorney will advise you on what to do if the harassment continues. It can be hard to know how to respond when interacting with the harasser at work. Chances are you will be confused and emotionally drained to formulate a response.
But when you work with a lawyer, you can be sure they will discuss the issue with your employer. They know what to do to ensure they don’t retaliate against you.
2. Discuss Filing Charges
You may be discontent with your employer’s response to your sexual harassment complaint. An attorney will advise you on the legal measures to take if you file a lawsuit. They will let you know the relevant agencies to file a charge after explaining the pros and cons.
3. Help You Deal With Retaliation
The law prohibits employers from retaliating against workers who report sexual harassment claims. Retaliation takes many forms. It’s not limited to termination or disciplinary write-ups.
In some cases, your employer may fail to involve you in meetings or exclude you from some projects. A lawyer will investigate such actions to confirm whether they are retaliatory. They will let you know the steps to take if they confirm the information to be true.
Hire the Best Los Angeles Sexual Harassment Attorney
Are you tired of sexual harassment in your workplace? If so, hire a Los Angeles sex harassment attorney to protect your interests.
With plenty of lawyers in California, it can be hard to identify the best one. Make comparisons and choose a firm accredited by the better business Bureau.
Here at the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, we will evaluate your situation and give feedback. We’ll help you fight back if you’re experiencing sexual harassment. We have the resources to take on powerful opponents to protect your interest.
Give us a call to schedule a free consultation.
Take Back Your Power With A Sexual Harassment Lawyer Serving Clients Nationwide
Unless you’re a sex worker, your job security should not hinge on sexual favors. If someone above you in the workplace hierarchy makes it clear either explicitly or implicitly that your job may be on the line unless you consent to sexual contact, this is known as quid pro quo sexual harassment. Not surprisingly, it is against the law. Even a relationship that appears to be consensual between a boss and a subordinate is problematic. That’s because true consent is not possible when one person has the power to fire the other. Sexual harassment in the workplace can take many forms, however, and can range from enduring unwanted sexual advances to facing the brick wall of sexual discrimination to even being raped at work. It’s not right, and it doesn’t have to be this way.
When you schedule your free initial consultation with the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, Mr. Friedman will listen to your story without judgment and assess your options based on the available evidence. Don’t endure one more day of control and manipulation. Call us today at to make an appointment.
Questions? Call Todd.
Challenging A Cascade Of Workplace Offenses
Sexual harassment is not often a lone wolf of a problem in the workplace. People who are harassed, and especially those who file lawsuits and then return to work, often face a series of interlocking employment law issues, including retaliation and wrongful termination. Ongoing sexual harassment can also lead to poor job performance and chronic depression. For that reason, it may be better for some victims of sexual harassment to find another job first and then file a sexual harassment lawsuit from the safety of a new workplace. That approach, however, may not be realistic for some people. Whatever your particular situation, you don’t need to stand for this disrespectful and damaging treatment. Contact California attorney Todd M. Friedman and assert your right to a safe work environment.
Empower Yourself With Information. Call Today.
Seeing a lawyer does not mean you have to file a lawsuit. But with the advice of an experienced employment law attorney, you can gain perspective about where you stand and what your next best move might be.
At the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, P.C., you will speak with your attorney directly. Todd Friedman’s in-depth case analysis and timely feedback are a tremendous benefit to clients contemplating harassment cases.
Call our offices at to schedule an appointment with Todd M. Friedman or email us. You can also call toll free at .
Sexual Harassment FAQ
Protecting Harassed Employees Throughout California
According to a report released by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), California workers filed nearly 7,000 sex-related charges between Jan. 2009 and Dec. 2014. In fact, of the employment-related charges filed annually, an average of 27 percent are the result of sexual harassment or other sex-related violations or crimes. These numbers clearly show the prevalence of sexual harassment in California workplaces. Unfortunately, these numbers only represent the employees who filed charges — not the ones who suffered in silence.
If you have suffered in silence because you are unsure whether you are a victim of sexual harassment, you do not have to suffer any longer. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, P.C., will protect your right to a safe, harassment-free workplace while representing your interests in court.
What Does Sexual Harassment Look Like In The Eyes Of The Law?
If you have had to endure any of the following, you may be a victim of sexual harassment:
1. Inappropriate sexual advances;
2. Promotion offers or other employment-related offers hinged on sexual favors;
3. Threats, demotions or terminations after declining sexual advances;
4. Inappropriate verbal or visual conduct;
5. Inappropriate propositions or comments;
6. Unwanted and inappropriate physical contact.
What Are My Rights?
No one should have to put up with sexual harassment in the workplace. Thankfully, the law concurs. By law, employers must take appropriate action to not only prevent sexual harassment, but also to take complaints seriously and investigate thoroughly when notified of an alleged incident.
If your employer has done nothing with your complaint or dragged its feet on your claim, a lawyer can assist you in asserting your rights by filing a claim with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). The department will conduct its own independent investigation and take further legal action if it finds the employer failed in its duty to act or prevent sexual harassment.
Is There A Time Limit For Filing A Claim?
Generally speaking, you have one year from when the incident or incidents occurred to file a claim with the DFEH.
What five 5 things can you do if you are being sexually harassed at work?
Get Informed: Educate yourself about your rights under California employment law, including the protections provided by the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). Understanding these laws can help you navigate the process more effectively.
Keep a Record: Document every incident of harassment. Include detailed descriptions of what happened, where and when it occurred, and any witnesses. This documentation will be crucial if you decide to report the harassment or pursue legal action.
Ask Them to Stop: If you feel safe doing so, clearly communicate to the harasser that their behavior is unwelcome and must stop. Sometimes, this direct approach can halt the harassment.
Report the Harassment: File a formal complaint with your company’s Human Resources department or any designated personnel. California law requires employers to take immediate and appropriate action to investigate and address harassment complaints.
Seek Support and Legal Advice: Contact an employment attorney specializing in workplace harassment cases, such as Todd M. Friedman, to understand your legal options. Additionally, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) if internal resolutions are unsatisfactory. Legal and emotional support can guide you through this challenging process.
What is an example of sexually inappropriate behavior in the workplace?
An example of sexually inappropriate behavior in the workplace includes making unwelcome sexual advances or comments. For instance, a colleague repeatedly making sexually suggestive remarks or jokes despite being asked to stop constitutes sexually inappropriate behavior. Other examples include unwelcome touching, sending explicit emails or messages, and displaying sexually explicit materials in the workplace. These actions create a hostile and uncomfortable environment, violating workplace conduct standards and potentially the law.
How can you tell if someone is sexually harassed at work in California?
In California, there are several signs that someone might be experiencing sexual harassment at work. These include:
Behavioral Changes: The individual may exhibit signs of stress, anxiety, or depression, such as becoming withdrawn, showing decreased productivity, or avoiding certain coworkers or situations.
Physical Signs: Look for signs of physical discomfort or distress, such as changes in posture, frequent illnesses, or unexplained injuries.
Verbal Complaints: The person might directly or indirectly mention feeling uncomfortable, intimidated, or harassed. They might also make complaints about specific individuals or behaviors.
Documented Incidents: The individual may keep records of inappropriate behaviors, such as unwanted advances, explicit comments, or physical contact. These records can include emails, text messages, or written notes detailing the harassment.
Changes in Work Patterns: Noticeable changes in work patterns, such as requesting transfers, taking more sick leave, or showing reluctance to participate in team activities, can indicate harassment.
If you suspect someone is being sexually harassed, it’s important to encourage them to speak up and seek help. They can report the harassment to their HR department, consult with a legal professional, or file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). Supporting them in documenting incidents and understanding their rights can also be very helpful.
Can you be sexually harassed verbally, or does harassment have to be physical?
Yes, you can be sexually harassed verbally. Sexual harassment does not have to be physical to be considered harassment. Verbal sexual harassment includes any unwelcome comments, jokes, or remarks of a sexual nature. Examples of verbal sexual harassment include:
Sexual Comments or Jokes: Making inappropriate jokes or comments about someone’s body, appearance, or sexual activities.
Sexual Advances or Propositions: Repeatedly asking someone out or making sexual advances despite being rejected.
Inappropriate Remarks: Making offensive comments about gender, sexual orientation, or sex-related topics.
Sexually Explicit Language: Using vulgar or sexually explicit language in conversation or communication.
Comments about Clothing or Looks: Making unwelcome remarks about someone’s attire or physical appearance in a sexual context.
Verbal sexual harassment can create a hostile and intimidating work environment, and it is taken seriously under California employment law. If you experience or witness verbal sexual harassment, it is important to report it to your HR department or seek legal advice to address the issue.
Get The Answers You Need Today: Nationwide Services
At the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, P.C., we will take the time to listen to your story carefully and determine your options for taking legal action against the person or entity that violated your rights. Schedule a free initial consultation at our office in Woodland Hills via email or by calling toll free.
