National City Sexual Harassment Attorneys
Sexual harassment remains a troubling reality in workplaces across California. While strong state and federal protections may not always prevent sexual harassment in the workplace, those laws can empower victims to hold the at-fault parties responsible for their misconduct. With the aid and advocacy of a National City sexual harassment lawyer, you can be compensated for your financial losses, emotional duress, and other damages.
Workers in National City know they can rely on the legal services of Jimenez Loayza, APC, to provide aggressive and proactive legal representation in court. Our attorneys are not afraid to take a case to trial, and they are never intimidated by the tactics used by sexual harassers or their legal representatives.
Why Choose Jimenez Loayza, APC?
Sexual harassment can leave victims financially and emotionally devastated. Justice can come in the form of compensation when you have legal representation from Jimenez Loayza, APC.
Our law firm is committed to fighting for workers who have been wronged by employers. We understand the emotional and financial harm that can result from sexual harassment, and our team can fight to restore you financially and professionally.
Common Examples of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Sexual harassment in the workplace can manifest in many forms, ranging from overt physical actions to more subtle verbal conduct. Common examples include unwanted physical contact (such as touching or groping) and inappropriate comments about someone’s appearance or sexual behavior.
Other examples include unsolicited sexual advances, sending suggestive emails, or displaying explicit materials in the workplace. According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), harassment can also include offensive jokes, slurs, or any other conduct that creates a hostile work environment.
Certain retaliatory acts may also constitute sexual harassment. Anyone who has been sexually harassed has a right to seek legal counsel. California and federal laws provide expansive protections for workers in cases of harassment and sexual harassment.
What Should I Do If I Was Sexually Harassed?
If you’ve been sexually harassed at work, the first step is to inform your employer or a trusted supervisor about the incident and provide them with detailed information. Employers are legally obligated to address harassment complaints and protect workers. Clear communication and prompt reporting can establish a record of your efforts to resolve the issue. Doing so can also make sure the matter is taken seriously.
You do not have to wait to seek legal representation, but it is generally advisable to give your employer time to rectify the situation and take appropriate steps, which could include disciplining the offender.
Document each incident in detail, including dates, times, and any witnesses. Under California law, employers are required to take prompt and effective action. If the issue isn’t resolved internally, you may hire an attorney who can review your case before filing a claim with the Civil Rights Department or the EEOC.
How an Attorney Can Help
Sexual harassers often believe they have power or some level of control over their victims. Hiring a sexual harassment lawyer can put the offender on notice that they will be held accountable for this misconduct. Legal representation can protect you from retaliation as you seek justice through direct negotiations or the courts.
An attorney who focuses on sexual harassment law can guide you through the complex process of filing a claim while protecting your rights. They can gather evidence, negotiate with your employer, and, if necessary, represent you in court.
Your attorney can explain your legal options and what you may be entitled to if you pursue legal action through the courts. Whether negotiating directly with your employer, filing administrative complaints, or pursuing other remedies, your attorney serves as a trusted and valuable resource to help you seek justice and restore your career.
FAQs
Q: What Is the Anti-Harassment Law in California?
A: Numerous laws at the state and federal level protect workers from sexual harassment. California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits harassment in workplaces with five or more employees, requiring employers to take steps to prevent and address harassment. Federal protections under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 also safeguard employees from harassment based on protected characteristics.
Q: How Do I Prove Harassment in California?
A: You can prove sexual harassment by hiring an attorney who understands state and federal employment laws. Sexual harassment is unacceptable and unlawful, but seeking justice requires an understanding of the laws and evidence. Common forms of evidence for sexual harassment cases include testimony, emails, statements, surveillance footage, and HR documentation.
Q: What Qualifies as Harassment in California?
A: In California, harassment includes unwelcome conduct based on protected characteristics, like race, gender, sexual orientation, or religion, that creates a hostile or offensive work environment. This can involve verbal abuse, physical actions, or discriminatory behavior. Harassment is unlawful when it interferes with an employee’s ability to perform their job or results in adverse employment decisions.
Q: What Is the Burden of Proof in a Harassment Case?
A: In harassment cases, the burden of proof lies with the plaintiff, who must provide evidence that the defendant violated state or federal employment laws. To succeed in civil court, the plaintiff must meet the “preponderance of evidence” standard, which involves proving how it is more likely than not that their claims are valid. Strong evidence is essential to demonstrate liability and secure justice and compensation for sexual harassment.
Schedule Your Sexual Harassment Consultation Today
Compelling the at-fault party or your employer to pay compensation following acts of sexual harassment in the workplace can prevent further incidents of misconduct. After enduring degrading acts, monetary compensation and other forms of relief can lend a sense of justice, help you rebuild your life, and restore your professional prospects.
At Jimenez Loayza, APC, our attorneys do not rest until their clients have their dignity and finances restored. Sexual harassment has no place in our state’s workplaces. Take the first step today by contacting our office online. Our lawyers are both compassionate and dedicated to achieving justice for every client.
ES