January 26, 2023
JML Law

Job interviews are a crucial step in the hiring process and can be stressful for both the interviewer and the interviewee. Unfortunately, in some cases, job interviews can also be a source of harassment and discrimination. If you have been subjected to harassment during a job interview in California, you may be wondering whether you can take legal action against the potential employer.

The Answer is Yes

Yes, you can take legal action against a potential employer for harassment during a job interview in California. The state of California has strong laws against workplace harassment, which include harassment that occurs during a job interview. This means that you may be able to file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) or take legal action in court.

What Constitutes Harassment?

Harassment during a job interview can take many forms, including sexual harassment, age discrimination, and racial discrimination.

Generally, though, to be considered harassment, the behavior must be severe or pervasive and create a hostile work environment. This means that a single instance of offensive behavior may not be considered harassment, but a pattern of behavior that makes you feel uncomfortable or intimidated may be considered harassment.

It can be difficult to establish a pattern of behavior if you merely experienced one instance of harassment during a job interview. This doesn’t mean it’s impossible to hold a potential employer accountable in these circumstances.

It simply means it’s wise to coordinate with professionals if you think you have a valid case. An employment law attorney who handles harassment cases can review the details of the harassment and determine if you have grounds to take action. If you do, they can also assist you in gathering the evidence necessary to show that a potential employer broke the law by engaging in harassment during an interview.

Filing a Complaint with the DFEH

If you believe you have been subjected to harassment during a job interview in California, you can file a complaint with the DFEH. This agency is responsible for investigating claims of workplace harassment and discrimination in the state. To file a complaint, you must complete a complaint form and submit it to the DFEH within one year of the incident.

Taking Legal Action

If you choose to take legal action against a potential employer for harassment during a job interview, you may need to file a lawsuit in court. This can be a complicated and time-consuming process, so it is important to have an experienced employment lawyer on your side. An employment lawyer can help you gather evidence, build a strong case, and represent your interests in court.

Contact a Los Angeles Harassment Attorney Today

Many people mistakenly assume they can only be victims of workplace harassment if they experience said harassment in their own work environments. That’s not necessarily the case. In some instances, harassment during a job interview can also warrant filing a complaint or lawsuit. For more information about potential legal options, contact JML Law online or call us at 818-610-8800 today to discuss your case.

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