As attorneys who have dedicated our careers to protecting workers’ rights, we understand the devastating impact sexual harassment in the workplace can have on victims. If you’re facing sexual harassment at work, you don’t have to endure it alone. Contact an experienced California sexual harassment lawyer at HBK Lawyers who can help you understand your rights and explore your legal options.
What Constitutes Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
Sexual harassment in California workplaces is any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, creating a hostile work environment, or resulting in tangible employment consequences. When supervisors or managers make employment decisions based on your submission to or rejection of sexual advances, it’s recognized as quid pro quo harassment. Other behaviors constituting sexual harassment include:
- Unwanted sexual advances
- Sexual comments or jokes
- Display of sexual materials
- Unwanted touching
- Sexual propositions
Remember that sexual harassment doesn’t require physical contact to create a valid legal claim. Verbal harassment, written communications, and even non-verbal gestures can create a hostile work environment that violates California employment law. Courts recognize that harassment based on gender stereotypes, pregnancy status, or other sex-related characteristics can constitute sexual harassment under California law.
Are Men Protected From Sexual Harassment?
Absolutely. California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) protects all employees from sexual harassment, regardless of gender. Men can be victims of sexual harassment just as women can, and our law firm will fight for anyone who has experienced unwelcome sexual conduct in their workplaces.
Is It Possible to Be Sexually Harassed By Someone of the Same Sex?
Yes, same-sex sexual harassment is prohibited under California law. The gender of your harasser doesn’t matter—what matters is whether you’re experiencing unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that affects your work environment or employment status.
Is It Sexual Harassment if Someone I Used to Date Won’t Leave Me Alone at Work?
Past romantic relationships don’t give anyone the right to continue unwanted contact, especially in your workplace. If your ex is making unwelcome advances, sending inappropriate messages, or otherwise creating a hostile work environment, you have the same legal protections as you would against any other harasser.
What Steps to Take After Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Taking immediate action after experiencing sexual harassment can strengthen your legal position and help protect you from retaliation. Several important steps you should take after sexual harassment in the workplace include the following:
- Document everything: Write down dates, times, locations, and detailed descriptions of each incident. Keep copies of all written communications, including emails and text messages, related to the harassment.
- Report the harassment: Follow your company’s reporting procedures by notifying HR, your supervisor, or other designated personnel as outlined in your company’s policies. Make your complaint in writing when possible and keep copies for your records.
- Preserve evidence: Save any physical evidence, screenshots, voicemails, or other materials that support your claim—backup evidence in multiple locations to prevent loss.
- Identify witnesses: Make note of anyone who witnessed the harassment or who might have relevant information about the harasser’s behavior toward you or others.
- Seek medical attention: If the harassment has caused physical or emotional harm, document your injuries and treatment with medical professionals who can provide records for your case.
Taking these steps doesn’t guarantee that your employer will take appropriate action, but it does create a paper trail that can be valuable if you need to pursue legal remedies later. At HBK Lawyers, our legal team supports you through these steps in every way possible, enabling you to prioritize your mental health and recovery.
What Legal Options Do I Have for Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
California provides several legal avenues for sexual harassment victims to seek justice and compensation. Understanding these options can help you make informed decisions about how to proceed with your case:
- File a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department: You can file an administrative complaint that may lead to investigation, mediation, or other resolution of your harassment claim. The agency can also issue a right-to-sue letter that allows you to pursue court action.
- Pursue a civil lawsuit: You may be able to file a lawsuit against your employer and potentially individual harassers for damages, including lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages. California law provides powerful protections and remedies for victims of harassment.
- Seek injunctive relief: Courts can order your employer to take specific actions to stop the harassment and prevent future incidents, such as implementing training programs or removing harassers from positions of authority.
Each case is unique, and the most effective legal strategy depends on the specific facts of your situation, the severity of the harassment, and your employer’s response to your complaints.
Speak to an Experienced California Sexual Harassment Lawyer
Don’t let sexual harassment continue to affect your life and well-being. Our team at HBK Lawyers has extensive experience helping California workers fight back against sexual harassment and recover the compensation they deserve. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and will treat your situation with the discretion and respect you deserve.
Contact the experience team of attorneys of Haig B. Kazandjian Lawyers APC today. We proudly serve clients across California. Visit us at our Glendale office at:
Haig B. Kazandjian Lawyers APC
801 N. Brand Blvd., Suite 1015,
Glendale, CA 91203
Phone: (818) 696 2306
$3,600,000
$2,800,000
$1,500,000
$1,260,000
$1,500,000
