How a California Workplace Sexual Harassment Lawyer Can Help You

Sexual harassment affects many employees at various levels in almost every industry working in California. By understanding the definition of sexual harassment according to California law, and identifying all facets of workplace conduct that may be considered illegal, employees will be better able to recognize what behaviors are problematic, as well as clarify their own rights. An experienced California workplace sexual harassment lawyer​ can assist employees to gain a better understanding of their legal rights and options, as well as provide guidance regarding the next steps available to take.

Employees in California frequently contact law firms specializing in employment law, like Remedy Law Group, for assistance with workplace sexual harassment. This is especially true for complicated harassment situations and/or when employees have difficulty addressing such situations internally. An experienced California workplace sexual harassment attorney can assist employees with evaluating their claims, understanding the related reporting processes, and identifying the best course of action based on each employee's unique circumstances.

What Is Sexual Harassment Under California Law?

Sexual harassment generally involves unwelcome conduct based on sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or pregnancy. The conduct may be verbal, physical, visual, or written, and it does not require physical contact to be considered harassment.

Sexual harassment may occur between coworkers, supervisors and employees, or involve third parties such as clients, customers, or vendors, depending on the circumstances.

Common Forms of Workplace Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment can take many forms, and not all behavior is obvious at first. Examples may include:

- Unsolicited comments, jokes , gestures and/or remarks of sexual nature

­­‑ Unwanted physical contact

­­‑­ Requesting sexual favours

_­­‑­ Emails, texts, or images containing sexually suggestive language

‑­ Comments regarding someone's physical appearance that have made them uncomfortable

‑­ Continuing to make advances after you have been told to stop

In some situations, conduct may escalate over time or become more persistent, making it harder for employees to feel safe or supported at work.

Hostile Work Environment Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment may create a hostile work environment when unwelcome conduct becomes severe or pervasive enough to interfere with an employee’s ability to perform their job.

A hostile work environment does not require constant behavior. Depending on the circumstances, a single incident may be significant, particularly if it is severe or involves a position of authority.

Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment

Sexual Harassment: As it relates to Employment, Sexual Harassment Entails Situations Where Employees Receive Job-Related Benefits or Suffer Negative Consequence because of Their Acceptance or Rejection of a Supervisor's or Co-worker's Sexual Advances. Examples include Promotional Opportunities, Salary Increases, Work Shifts, Continued Employment or Other Work-Related Decisions that are Dependent Upon the Employee's Acceptance or Rejection of an Advance of a Sexual Nature.

There is typically an imbalance of power in these types of situations, which can also create significant exposure to liability under California sexual harassment laws.

Reporting Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

Employees can report incidents of sexual harassment internally through channels like Human Resources, Management or Designated Reporting Channels. The employer is expected to respond to the report in an appropriate manner and to take the report of harassment seriously. Read More!