Sexual Harassment & Abuse Lawyer

The #metoo movement helped shine a light on sexual harassment and abuse, inspiring people everywhere and helping establish new standards of accountability.

While some progress has been made, sexual harassment remains a deeply entrenched problem that affects thousands of California residents.

Fortunately, sexual harassment victims are protected by a variety of state and federal laws. If you or someone you love has experienced this form of harassment, it’s vitally important that you understand how these laws work and how an experienced attorney can help protect your rights.

Sexual harassment is a grave issue that can impact almost anyone, regardless of your gender, age, and background. Defined broadly, it encompasses any unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

While it’s vital to recognize and condemn such actions, it’s equally important for victims to be informed about their rights and the support available to them.

Let’s take a closer look at some scenarios that qualify as sexual harassment.

Examples of Sexual Harassment

Unwelcome Touching This can range from unnecessary touching, patting, or pinching to more severe forms such as sexual assault or attempts to engage in such actions.
Verbal HarassmentComments about a person’s body, their sexuality, or their personal life which they find offensive. This can also include suggestive remarks, jokes of a sexual nature, or propositions.
Visual HarassmentDisplaying sexually suggestive pictures, videos, or messages, especially without the subject’s consent. This can be via traditional means, such as posters or photos, or through digital methods like emails, texts, or online platforms.
Sexual FavoritismWhen employment decisions, like promotions or raises, are based on an individual’s submission to sexual advances or relations rather than merit.
StalkingFollowing someone without their consent, sending unwanted gifts or letters, or other forms of intrusive behavior can also constitute sexual harassment when they have sexual undertones.
Online HarassmentCyberbullying, sending explicit content, or non-consensual sharing of intimate images or videos online.

What Sexual Harassment Victims Should Know

First, it’s not your fault: Many victims blame themselves, thinking they invited or caused the harassment. However, the blame solely lies with the perpetrator. No one should be subjected to unwanted sexual advances or comments, regardless of their clothing, behavior, or any other factor.

Next, your feelings are valid. Whether you feel scared, angry, ashamed, or even numb, it’s essential to acknowledge and process these emotions. Everyone responds differently, and there’s no ‘correct’ way to feel.

It can be incredibly empowering to speak about the incident, whether to a trusted friend, family member, or a counselor. Sharing your experience not only helps in processing it but also creates awareness and can help protect others.

Depending on the severity and context, victims should consider reporting the incident. In workplaces, many companies have guidelines and procedures to report and address such issues. In more severe cases, it might be necessary to report to the authorities.

There are numerous support groups, helplines, and organizations dedicated to helping victims of sexual harassment. They can offer counseling, legal advice, and a safe space to share.

If you feel in immediate danger, prioritize your safety. This might mean changing contact information, seeking a restraining order, or relocating.

Various laws and regulations, depending on the region, protect individuals from sexual harassment. Familiarizing yourself with these can be empowering and guide your next steps.

Finally, an experienced sexual harassment attorney can help you protect your rights under the law and help you receive any compensation for losses you’ve suffered

Understanding what constitutes sexual harassment is the first step in combating it. The onus of this problem does not lie with the victim, but with society at large. By creating safe environments, promoting education, and supporting victims, we can move towards a world where everyone feels respected and secure.

Sexual Harassment Laws in California

Sexual harassment within the workplace can derail a victim’s career and have profound, life-altering consequences.

Common forms of sexual harassment include unwanted advances, physical contact or actions that create an atmosphere of hostility or intimidation based on an employee’s sex.

Workers in California are protected from sexual harassment under the terms of the Family Employment and Health Act (FEHA) and the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Anyone who has been a victim of harassment should first file a written report with a supervisor or manager before lodging a complaint with the appropriate state or federal agency. In most cases, this is the state Department of Fair Employment and Housing and the federal Equal Opportunity Employment Commission.

Once a complaint is filed, an investigation will then begin, and the opposing party will be granted an opportunity to respond to the complaint.

If the response is unsatisfactory or if it is determined that a crime took place, litigation may be the next step.

The Benefits of Speaking with a Los Angeles Sexual Harassment Law Firm

Sexual harassment cases are often quite complex, given that the process of pursuing a complaint can be time-consuming, and testimony and shared recollections may conflict. Because of this, it’s advisable to speak with an attorney who specializes in this form of litigation.

At L&B Law Group, we’ve been helping victims of sexual harassment assert their legal rights for decades. Call us today for a free consultation.