Fight Back Against Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Do you dread going to work every day because of the treatment of others? Are you repeatedly subjected to inappropriate jokes, degrading comments, or unwelcome advances? If so, it’s time to speak out.
You have the right to a workplace that’s free from sexual harassment. At the Law Offices of Stephen B. Morris, our Southern California sexual harassment attorneys have helped victims of workplace harassment find the courage to receive justice. With three convenient firms in San Diego, Orange County, and Irvine, CA, our caring lawyers are here for you.
What Constitutes Workplace Sexual Harassment in California?
Managers and supervisors often have a lot of power. Unfortunately, supervisors sometimes abuse their power by sexually harassing subordinates. In California, sexual harassment is unwanted physical or verbal advancements that create a hostile work environment.
The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) of California classify sexual harassment as “unwelcome sexual advances, or other visual, verbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature and actions that create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment based on an employee’s sex.”
If you’re experiencing harassment at work, whether in an office, retail store, or restaurant, you have the right to justice.
Examples of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Workplace sexual harassment can take many different forms, from demands for sexual favors to more subtle behaviors that, taken together, are insulting, degrading, or sexist. There are two types of sexual harassment: quid pro quo and the creation of a hostile environment.
Quid pro quo is Latin for “this for that” and refers to the exchange for sexual favors, whether for a promotion or conditional hire. It can be an offer or a threat; either way, it’s illegal in all states.
Hostile work environments are when sexual harassment is persistent or severe to the point employees force themselves to ignore it in fear of retaliation or wrongful termination. You may be able to file a claim even if the harassment becomes misdirected toward you.
What Should You Do if You’ve Experienced Sexual Harassment at Work?
Maybe you’re afraid to take action for fear of retaliation. Or you’ve already taken steps to report the harassment internally, only to be met with resistance, disbelief, or empty gestures.
Either way, you may still have an opportunity to fight against harassment through a legal claim. If successful, you could not only shut down the harassment but also obtain monetary compensation for the following.
- Lost wages and lost future earnings
- Attorney fees
- Emotional distress
Our California sex harassment lawyers will discuss your options in a supportive, confidential environment. We’ve successfully handled many claims of sexual harassment in the workplace. Over decades in this field, our attorneys have gained a deep understanding of the challenges you’ll face. We can help you overcome them; you won’t even owe attorney fees unless we win your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some examples of workplace sexual harassment include:
- Inappropriate comments or stories
- Unwelcome physical or verbal advances
- Quid pro quo favors or threats
- Hostile work environment
If you or a coworker are victims of sexual harassment from a manager or supervisor, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for emotional distress or lost wages. In the case of wrongful termination as a form of retaliation, you may be eligible for reinstatement. Speak to an attorney near you to learn more.
The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) is responsible for California’s sexual harassment laws and defines sexual harassment as deems inappropriate comments or requests towards employees as illegal sexual harassment. Don’t let inappropriate behavior slide for fear of retaliation. Know your rights and fight for justice.
If you’re experiencing a hostile work environment due to sexual harassment, acknowledge the harassment is not your fault and collect as much evidence as possible. Bring this information to a sexual harassment attorney to help you file a claim and receive justice.