Sexual harassment in the workplace is a serious issue that can have lasting emotional, psychological, and professional consequences. If you’ve experienced harassment in Glendale, California, you don’t have to face it alone. At JML Law, APLC, we understand the difficulty of confronting sexual harassment, and our experienced Glendale sexual harassment lawyers are here to help you navigate through the legal process with compassion and expertise.
What is Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment refers to unwanted and inappropriate behavior of a sexual nature that creates a hostile or intimidating work environment. This behavior can come in various forms, including verbal, physical, or visual actions that cause distress to the victim. Sexual harassment can occur in different settings, but workplace harassment is one of the most common forms.
Under California law, sexual harassment can include actions like:
- Unwelcome comments or jokes: These include offensive remarks, inappropriate jokes, or lewd comments of a sexual nature.
- Physical contact: This could involve unwanted touching, hugging, or other physical advances.
- Sexual advances or propositions: Making requests for sexual favors or pressuring someone for sexual interaction.
- Sexual displays: This could involve inappropriate gestures, displays of explicit material, or making suggestive comments.
- Hostile work environment: A pattern of behavior that creates a work atmosphere where you feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or unwelcome due to sexual conduct.
Sexual harassment is not just about physical actions – it can also involve verbal and non-verbal behavior that impacts your ability to work in a safe and respectful environment.
Types of Sexual Harassment
There are two main types of sexual harassment: quid pro quo harassment and hostile work environment harassment.
Quid Pro Quo Harassment
This occurs when an employer or supervisor offers job benefits in exchange for sexual favors or threatens to punish an employee for rejecting sexual advances. This type of harassment often involves a direct link between the harassment and a tangible job benefit, such as a promotion, raise, or continued employment.
Hostile Work Environment Harassment
This occurs when an employee’s work environment becomes intimidating, hostile, or offensive due to sexual conduct. It can include inappropriate comments, jokes, or physical actions that create a toxic work atmosphere. In a hostile work environment, the harassment does not necessarily have to be connected to a job benefit but must affect the victim’s ability to work or feel comfortable in their job.
Legal Protections Against Sexual Harassment in Glendale
California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) provides comprehensive protections against sexual harassment in the workplace. Under FEHA, it is illegal for employers to:
- Allow or condone sexual harassment in the workplace.
- Retaliate against employees who report sexual harassment.
- Fail to take appropriate action to investigate or resolve complaints of sexual harassment.
California law also requires employers to provide a safe working environment, free from discrimination and harassment based on gender, sex, or sexual orientation.
Signs You May Have a Sexual Harassment Claim
If you are facing harassment at work, you may be entitled to take legal action. Some signs that you may have a sexual harassment claim include:
- You’ve experienced unwelcome sexual advances or conduct at work.
- The harassment has created a work environment that is intimidating, hostile, or offensive.
- You’ve reported the harassment to your employer, but no action has been taken to stop it.
- You’ve been retaliated against for reporting the harassment or rejecting advances.
- You’ve been subjected to a pattern of sexual comments, jokes, or inappropriate behavior.
If any of these situations apply to you, it’s important to consult with a Glendale sexual harassment attorney as soon as possible to determine your legal options.
Steps to Take if You Experience Sexual Harassment
If you are a victim of sexual harassment at work, taking immediate action is important to protect your rights. Here are the steps you should consider taking:
- Document the harassment: Keep a detailed record of every harassment incident. This should include the date, time, location, what happened, and who was involved. If possible, collect any evidence, such as emails, text messages, or recordings.
- Report the harassment: If you feel comfortable, report the harassment to your employer. The law requires them to investigate sexual harassment complaints and take appropriate action. Reporting the incident creates a record of the issue and may help prevent further harassment.
- Seek legal advice: Contact an experienced Glendale sexual harassment lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, evaluate your case, and determine the best action to take.
- File a claim: If the harassment persists, you may need to file a claim with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Your lawyer will guide you through this process and protect your rights.
Why You Need a Glendale Sexual Harassment Lawyer
Navigating a sexual harassment case can be complex and emotionally challenging. By hiring a skilled Glendale sexual harassment attorney, you ensure that your case is handled professionally and effectively. At JML Law, APLC, we offer:
- Expert legal knowledge: Our attorneys have in-depth knowledge of California’s sexual harassment laws and can advise you on your legal rights and options.
- Confidential and compassionate support: We understand the sensitive nature of sexual harassment cases and provide a safe and supportive environment to discuss your situation.
- Aggressive representation: Our team will work tirelessly to protect your rights and seek justice for you. We fight for the compensation and remedies you deserve.
- No upfront costs: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. This ensures you can pursue your case without worrying about legal fees.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you’ve experienced sexual harassment in the workplace in Glendale, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced attorneys at JML Law, APLC. We are committed to fighting for your rights and helping you seek the justice you deserve.
For a free consultation, call us at 818-610-8800. Our team is ready to provide the legal assistance and support you need during this challenging time. Let us guide you through the process and ensure that your case is handled with care and professionalism.
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