Sexual Harassment Attorney in Glendale
Our Glendale Employment Lawyer Is Here to Help Protect Victims of Sexual Harassment
Experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace can be one of the most uncomfortable, stressful, and hurtful issues to face. You may be afraid to speak up about it for fear of negative repercussions for your job or social standing. However, employees in California are protected under state laws that forbid sexual harassment in the workplace. At HBK Lawyers, we prioritize your rights and your well-being above all else.
If you’ve experienced sexual harassment at work, you deserve legal representation that understands the personal and professional impact of such an offense. Call 818-696-2306 to speak with a dedicated workplace harassment attorney in California.
With the help of a skilled and compassionate employment attorney, you can be even more confident in your ability to address the situation effectively. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that you receive the personalized, client-first approach you need.
Workplace sexual harassment can have devastating effects on your career and mental health, and the legal process can be complicated. That’s where we come in. As your workplace harassment attorneys in California, we are prepared to go head-to-head with the defendant, whether it be your employer or a coworker, to ensure that your claim is properly addressed.
Our attorneys at HBK Lawyers APC always put clients first when dealing with a situation of sexual harassment. We can guide you through the process of filing a complaint and advocating for you if the issue escalates. Call today for your free consultation!
Understanding Sexual Harassment in California Workplaces: Workplace Harassment Attorney California
What Constitutes Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment is defined as unwanted sexual advances or visual, verbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. This definition includes many forms of offensive behavior and includes gender-based harassment of a person of the same sex as the harasser.
Behaviors that are considered sexual harassment fall under two different categories: quid pro quo harassment and actions that create a hostile work environment. Quid pro quo harassment is when a supervisor offers employment benefits or promotions to an employee in exchange for sexual favors, or threatens demotion or negative consequences if they refuse to give the favors.
These types of actions can create significant power imbalances and put enormous pressure on employees, which leads to feelings of despair and helplessness.
Examples of Hostile Work Environment Sexual Harassment:
- Making sexual gestures or displaying sexually suggestive items or other visuals, for example, lewd pictures, sexually explicit videos, or inappropriate materials that are posted or shared in the workplace. This can create an environment where the individual feels uncomfortable, intimidated, or threatened, making it difficult to focus on work.
- Verbally making comments of a sexual nature regarding another individual or their body, including derogatory comments or jokes about someone’s appearance, physical attributes, or sexual attractiveness.
These comments are meant to belittle, demean, and objectify, creating an atmosphere where employees feel unsafe and disrespected. Even if these comments are disguised as jokes or made in a friendly context, they still constitute harassment.
- Physical assault can include unwanted and non-consensual physical contact like groping, pinching, or other forms of physical aggression. This form of harassment is not only emotionally harmful, but it can also lead to physical injuries and long-term psychological trauma. Any instance of physical assault in the workplace should be immediately reported, as it is a serious violation of not only personal boundaries but workplace safety.
- Physically touching another individual or blocking their movements, like standing too close, cornering someone in a room, or using physical force to prevent them from leaving an area. This behavior is both intimidating and controlling, intended to make the person feel trapped and powerless. Even seemingly minor physical intrusions can contribute to a hostile work environment.
- Retaliating or threatening to retaliate if a coworker rejects one’s sexual advances. This type of behavior creates an unbearable work atmosphere, making it nearly impossible for the victim to feel comfortable or safe within the workplace.
Understanding Your Rights as a Victim of Sexual Harassment
As a victim of sexual harassment, it is important to know that you have legal rights and protections under both federal and state laws. At Haig B. Kazandjian Lawyers, we are dedicated to helping victims of sexual harassment navigate the legal process and seek justice for their experiences. It is crucial to remember that though you feel alone, you are not, and you don’t have to endure harassment to keep your job.
California has some of the strongest legal protections against workplace sexual harassment in the country. The primary law governing sexual harassment in California is the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). This law prohibits harassment based on sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, and other protected characteristics.
Unlike federal laws, FEHA applies to employers with as few as five employees, offering broader coverage for workers in small businesses. Additionally, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 provides federal protection against sexual harassment.
Under these laws, employees are entitled to a safe, respectful workplace free from unwelcome advances, inappropriate comments, or any behavior that creates a hostile work environment. Employers are legally required to investigate complaints, prevent retaliation, and take immediate corrective action when harassment occurs.
Here are some key rights that you have as a victim of sexual harassment:
- The right to a safe and respectful work environment: You have the right to work in an environment free from any form of sexual harassment. This includes protection against unwelcome advances, comments, or any other behavior that creates a hostile work environment.
In some cases, employers may fail to properly address complaints or even encourage a culture of tolerance for inappropriate behavior, which is a violation of your rights.
- The right to report the harassment: You have the right to report any incidents of sexual harassment to your employer or the appropriate authority within your organization. Your employer is legally obligated to address your complaint and take appropriate action to stop the harassment. If they ignore your complaint, do nothing, or don’t do enough, they can be held liable for any damages that you suffer.
- The right to protection against retaliation: It is illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for reporting sexual harassment. If you experience any negative consequences, such as demotion, termination, or a hostile work environment as a result of reporting, you have the right to take legal action.
Retaliation is often as damaging as the original harassment itself, as it can include changes in regular job duties, hours worked, loss of opportunities, or even wrongful termination.
- The right to seek compensation: If you have suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm as a result of sexual harassment, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
In many cases, victims of sexual harassment not only seek damages for emotional distress but also other non-economic harm, like the loss of their professional reputation and career setbacks as a result.
Our workplace sexual harassment lawyers understand the sensitive nature of sexual harassment cases and the impact they can have on your life. Our workplace sexual harassment attorneys are here to provide compassionate support and fight for your rights every step of the way. We aim to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve and provide the sense of justice you need to help you heal and move forward from this traumatic experience.
Workplace Sexual Harassment Lawyers: Our Approach to Workplace Sexual Harassment Cases
At HBK Lawyers, we take a strategic, client-centered approach to every workplace sexual harassment case. We understand that every situation is unique, and we treat each case with the care and attention it deserves. From the moment you reach out to us, we’ll work with you closely to build a strong case that can stand up to scrutiny, whether in court or mediation.
Workplace Sexual Harassment Lawyer: The Initial Consultation
The process begins with a thorough free consultation where we take the time to listen to your experience. We understand how challenging it can be to speak about harassment, especially in the workplace, where power dynamics and fear of retaliation may make it difficult to come forward. Our team of Glendale workplace harassment lawyers create a safe, supportive environment for you to share your story without fear of judgment or reprisal.
During this consultation, we will discuss the specifics of your case, the nature of the harassment you have faced, and your goals moving forward. Our attorneys will help you understand your rights, the legal process, and any potential outcomes of your case. Taking legal action can be intimidating, but we work to alleviate your concerns and ensure you’re fully informed every step of the way.
Workplace Harassment Attorney California: Building a Strong, Strategic Case
Our Glendale workplace sexual harassment lawyer uses a detail-oriented and thorough approach to gather the evidence and documentation necessary to support your claim. This can include reviewing company policies, investigating the specific actions or patterns of behavior that led to your harassment, and interviewing potential witnesses who can corroborate your account.
We leave no stone unturned in collecting the facts and evidence needed to build a case that will hold up under legal inquiry. This level of diligence ensures that we can effectively challenge the defendant’s narrative and demonstrate that your rights have been violated. Our attorneys know how to approach these cases from every angle, leaving nothing to chance.
Workplace Sexual Harassment Lawyer: Demanding Accountability From Employers and Defendants
One of the most powerful tools when holding defendants accountable for workplace sexual harassment is the ability to directly challenge them and their defense strategies. At HBK Lawyers, our workplace harassment lawyers understand that employers, and sometimes even coworkers, will attempt to undermine your case by denying, minimizing, or even contesting the harassment that has taken place.
We don’t shy away from going up against employers or any defendant who seeks to downplay or dismiss your claim. When you work with us, you have a team of skilled negotiators and litigators who are prepared to:
- Challenge Their Defense. Employers may argue that the harassment did not occur or that you did not report it in a timely manner. We are prepared to confront these arguments by presenting a detailed record of events, ensuring the defendant is held accountable for any inaction or negligence.
- Demand Compensation. In many cases, victims of workplace sexual harassment are entitled to compensation for both tangible and intangible damages, such as lost wages, emotional distress, and medical costs. We’re committed to ensuring that you’re fairly compensated for the impact this harassment has had on your life and career.
- Pursue Legal Remedies. In some cases, employees can seek not only monetary damages but also injunctive relief, which means changes in workplace policies and practices. Our team will work toward securing the remedies that suit your situation and ensure long-term protection against further harassment.
Workplace Harassment Attorney California: Engaging in Negotiation and Settlement Discussions
While many workplace sexual harassment cases are resolved through settlement or negotiation, we’re never afraid to take matters to court when necessary. Our Glendale workplace harassment lawyers have experience negotiating settlements that protect our clients’ rights while providing a fair and just resolution.
When we negotiate, we do so from a position of strength, having gathered all necessary evidence to show the merit of your case. We’ll work to ensure that any settlement offers are in your interest, accounting for both the immediate impact of the harassment as well as any long-term effects it may have had on your career, health, and quality of life.
However, if the defendant refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’re fully prepared to take the case to trial. In such cases, we’ll present your story in the most compelling way possible, with witnesses, solid evidence, and legal arguments designed to ensure the defendant doesn’t get away with it.
Workplace Harassment Lawyer: Fighting Against Retaliation
Retaliation is a common concern for employees who report sexual harassment in the workplace. Many individuals fear losing their jobs or facing negative consequences for taking legal action. Under both federal and California law, retaliation for filing a sexual harassment claim is illegal.
At HBK Lawyers, we will fiercely protect you from retaliation by your employer or colleagues and ensure that your rights are protected at every stage of the legal process. If you face retaliation after filing your complaint, we’re prepared to take immediate action to address it and seek remedies on your behalf.
Litigation: Taking the Case to Court
Our sexual harassment in the workplace lawyers are prepared to take your case to court and advocate on your behalf before a judge and jury. We approach litigation with a strategic mindset, presenting clear and compelling evidence that proves your case and counters the defendant’s arguments.
Our team understands the intricacies of workplace sexual harassment law and will provide you with the right legal representation in court. We’re committed to advocating for your rights, ensuring that your voice is heard and that justice is served.
What Do I Need to Prove?
Just one instance of quid pro quo harassment is enough to file a claim. However, sexual harassment that creates a hostile work environment must either be deemed severe or must occur repeatedly such that the behavior is unreasonably interfering with your ability to work or has created a hostile environment.
The key here is whether the behavior is egregious enough to interfere with your work life or create an environment that no reasonable person would want to work in.
Most instances of harassment would need to occur on multiple occasions for you to have a case. However, something like assault or another extreme offense could be considered severe enough to only require one occurrence before a complaint would be accepted.
In order to be successful in a quid pro quo case, you will need to prove to a jury that the following occurred:
- The alleged harasser was, indeed, your supervisor at the time of the incident.
- The defendant made unwanted sexual advances.
- The defendant made offers of employment benefits in exchange for sexual favors, or that the defendant subjected you to negative consequences in the workplace as a result of you rejecting the offer.
- The harassment resulted in harm to you. This harm can be physical, emotional, and financial, including lost opportunities, damage to your professional reputation, or psychological distress. It’s important to provide evidence showing the lasting effects of the harassment on your well-being.
- In order to succeed in a case for hostile work environment sexual harassment, you will need to prove the following to the jury:
- The defendant sexually harassed you.
- The defendant’s actions were aimed at you and on the basis of sex, rude gestures or comments that were not meant as sexual advances or insults toward you, may not be considered harassment.
- The harassment was severe or occurred on multiple occasions, creating an abusive work environment. A hostile work environment can also include situations where the harassment is pervasive and long-lasting, leading to significant distress and a toxic work atmosphere. It’s essential to demonstrate how the harassment placed an unreasonable burden on you as an employee.
Additionally, the burden of proof in these cases lies with the victim, and having an experienced lawyer to help gather and present the evidence is crucial. The legal team at HBK Lawyers can assist you by providing the necessary support to prove your case.
This may involve collecting emails, text messages, videos, or other forms of communication that corroborate your claims, as well as compiling medical records that show the emotional and physical toll the harassment has had on you. Our workplace harassment lawyers can help you assess all available evidence, ensuring you have the strongest case possible when we present it in court or during mediation.
Workplace Harassment Attorney California: Why Choose HBK Lawyers?
Choosing the right attorney for your workplace sexual harassment case can be critical. You need proper legal support. Here’s why you should work with us:
- Experience and Acumen. Our workplace harassment lawyers have extensive experience in handling workplace sexual harassment claims, and we understand the legal complexities involved in these cases.
- Client-Centered Approach. We prioritize your needs and concerns. From the first consultation to the final resolution, we’re committed to providing personalized, respectful legal services.
- No Fees Unless We Win. We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay anything unless we secure a settlement or win your case. This ensures you can seek justice without the burden of upfront legal costs.
- A Reputation for Results. Our team has a proven track record of success in securing favorable outcomes for our clients. We are relentless in our pursuit of justice.
Don’t Face This Difficult Time Alone!
Our firm can help gather evidence and build a compelling case against the person who harassed you. If you’ve been harassed in the workplace, you should not shrink back for fear of failure or fear of negative consequences at work. In fact, your supervisor would be liable for a harassment claim simply by retaliating in response to you filing a complaint. You should not allow any individual to continue treating you with disrespect.
If you’ve experienced sexual harassment in the workplace in California, you don’t have to face it alone. Call 818-696-2306 today to schedule a consultation with an experienced workplace sexual harassment lawyer at HBK Lawyers. Let us fight for your rights, protect your future, and help you get the justice you deserve. Turn to HBK Lawyers for a free consultation regarding your sexual harassment case. We keep your interests at the top of our priorities.


