Victorville Workplace Sexual Harassment Lawyer
No one should have to work in an environment where they feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Sexual harassment in the workplace can take many different forms and can encompass a variety of scenarios. Someone can be sexually harassed by their supervisor, colleague, and even a customer or client. Behavior such as inappropriate comments or jokes and non-consensual touching is strictly prohibited, especially when it is offered in exchange for a job perk or promotion.
If you were a victim of sexual harassment at your place of work, you have legal recourse. A Victorville workplace sexual harassment lawyer at Walter Clark Legal Group could represent you in a civil claim against your employer and the perpetrator of the inappropriate behavior. To discuss your options with an experienced employment attorney, contact our office for a free and confidential consultation.
Workplace Sexual Harassment in California
There are federal and state laws that prohibit sexual harassment in the workplace. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a federal law that governs sexual harassment; it applies to employers with more than fifteen employees. Likewise, the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) provides broader protections than Title VII, and it does not have a minimum number of employees for the Act to apply to an employer. Under FEHA, individuals subject to sexual harassment can sue their employer.
Sexual harassment can come in many forms, but in general, courts require more than sporadic behavior. If the act of harassment is severe or physical in nature, a single act may constitute sexual harassment. Some common types of sexual harassment in the workplace include:
- Unwanted sexual advances
- Sexist comments or behavior
- Harassment by customers or clients
- Inappropriate touching or physical conduct
- Offering employment benefits or “perks” in exchange for sexual favors
- Threatening adverse employment consequences after thwarting sexual offers
- Verbal conduct, such as making degrading comments, lewd remarks, sexually explicit jokes, or comments concerning a person’s body, clothing, appearance, or sexual activity
If you were subject to any of these uncomfortable situations at work, or if you were demoted or fired because you denied sexual advances, speak with a seasoned Victorville sexual harassment attorney about your case.
Steps to Take to Protect Yourself Amid Sexual Harassment
For those who are experiencing a hostile work environment due to sexual harassment, there are certain steps they can take to preserve a legal claim if they decide to pursue a claim against their employer. Victims of sexual harassment can protect themselves and their legal rights by documenting the conduct when possible. For example, save emails or messages that contain inappropriate comments or behavior and write down the date and time of any unwanted advances. Victims should also express their discomfort if they feel safe to do so. Lastly, those subject to adverse employment actions based on sexual harassment should consult a well-practiced lawyer in Victorville.
Compensation from a Workplace Sexual Harassment Lawsuit
Victims of workplace sexual harassment may be entitled to financial compensation; however, their damages will depend on the amount of harm they suffered due to the sexual harassment. Some common damages in workplace sexual harassment cases include:
Back Pay
Those who are fired or denied a raise or promotion due to sexual harassment can ask for back pay to compensate for their losses.
Front Pay
Likewise, victims who are terminated or forced to resign due to a hostile work environment have the right to be reinstated in their prior position. If they do not wish to return, front pay is available to account for any losses.
Compensatory Damages
Victims of sexual harassment can also seek damages to compensate for their pain and suffering and out-of-pocket medical expenses related to the incident.
In rare cases, the court may award punitive damages to punish the employer for particularly egregious instances of sexual harassment. To learn more about your legal rights and remedies, contact a qualified workplace sexual harassment lawyer in Victorville.
Hire a Victorville Workplace Sexual Harassment Attorney
If you have been subject to a hostile work environment due to instances of sexual harassment, you should contact a local legal professional immediately. There are strict state and federal laws that prohibit workplace sexual harassment. Our team of dedicated attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group is prepared to file a civil lawsuit against your employer and those responsible.
We understand that you have many different options when it comes to an attorney, but when you hire a Victorville sexual harassment lawyer to represent you, it increases your chances of success. Our employment attorneys are well-versed on the applicable sexual harassment laws and can help you gather the evidence needed to prove a claim. If you were the victim of workplace sexual harassment, do not suffer alone; rely on a legal professional at our firm to get you the justice you deserve.
