With the advancements we've made in today's workplace, you would think that sexual harassment is a thing of the past. Unfortunately for many employees, harassment is still a very real and prevalent problem experienced while on the job. If this is the case for you, you may be wondering what steps you can take to put an end to it.
California maintains certain laws which prevent any employer from enabling or causing sexual harassment. All employers are protected by the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), by which they may be able to file a claim if their rights are violated. Determining whether you have the grounds for a claim is the first step in pursuing legal action.
How do I know if I have a sexual harassment claim?
There are three main categories of sexual harassment claims: unwanted sexual advances, hostile work environment, and retaliation. Each one is explained more thoroughly below:
- Unwanted sexual advances: offering employment perks in exchange for sexual favors, usually referred to as quid pro quo
- Hostile work environment: involving visual, verbal, and physical conduct, such as sexual pictures, sexual comments, or touching someone inappropriately
- Retaliation: threats or retaliation from an employer toward an employee when they complain about sexual harassment
If any of these incidents occurred at your place of employment, you may be able to report it by filing a claim. Complaints are typically filed with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing. The complaint is then investigated and if evidence of the harassment is found, a public hearing may occur. Based on the outcome of your hearing, your employer may be ordered to compensate you.
With so much riding on your claim, it can be difficult to successfully file one on your own. That is where our firm comes in. At Harris Grombchevsky LLP, our Orange County sexual harassment attorneys have more than 90 years of shared experience and can fight for the outcome you deserve.
Get in touch with us today for your free consultation!