Costa Mesa Sexual Harassment Lawyer

Costa Mesa Sexual Harassment Attorney

Sexual harassment at work violates legal standards and crosses moral boundaries. Unwelcome advances, offensive comments, and retaliation for complaints may give you legal standing to pursue action. A Costa Mesa sexual harassment lawyer from Engels-Janzen is here to defend employees while holding employers accountable according to California and federal statutes.

Our legal team serves clients throughout Orange County who are affected by hostile workplace conditions, quid pro quo harassment, and retaliation, including wrongful terminations following complaints. Your workplace should be safe and respectful, as protection from intimidation and reprisal is your right.

Understanding Sexual Harassment in California Workplaces

The workplace definition of sexual harassment covers unwanted sexual advances, demands for sexual favors, and unwanted visual, verbal, or physical behavior. The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) in California prohibits workplace harassment that creates a hostile work environment.

A study cited by the U.S. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) reports that about 90% of harassment victims fail to take formal action, such as filing complaints or charges. Employees who understand their rights and identify unacceptable conduct can effectively begin to combat workplace harassment. Consulting with an experienced Costa Mesa sexual harassment lawyer can help you understand those rights.

Prevalence of Workplace Harassment in California

In California, workplace sexual harassment continues to be a widespread problem. During fiscal years 2018 through 2021, the EEOC registered a total of 27,291 sexual harassment charges across the United States. The fact that women filed 78.2% of the sexual harassment charges illustrates their greater susceptibility to workplace harassment.

The EEOC received 905 sex-based discrimination charges throughout California during fiscal year 2022, which represented 20.5% of the state’s total discrimination claims. These figures demonstrate the critical need for education about harassment while emphasizing prevention methods and legal actions to address workplace harassment issues.

How to Document Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

Documenting every instance is crucial when you face sexual harassment in the workplace. Begin documenting each occurrence with thorough notes that contain specifics about the date, time, location, nature of the behavior, and any witnesses present. Preserve supporting emails, texts, and messages to validate your account.

Follow the company’s official procedure for reporting harassment to your supervisor or the HR department. Your thorough records become vital evidence for legal action when HR dismisses your complaint or if you face retaliation. California law protects individuals who report harassment from any form of punishment. Keeping objective records helps build strong evidence to seek justice and hold employers accountable.

Filing a Sexual Harassment Complaint in Costa Mesa

The Civil Rights Department (CRD) in California handles complaints of sexual harassment by employees and was previously known as the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). Filing options include submitting your complaint online, mailing it, or calling to file it. The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) phone number is 800-884-1684.

The CRD examines the complaint and might proceed to investigate the matter or explore mediation options before potentially delivering a right-to-sue letter that permits you to take your case to civil court. Costa Mesa workers need to take immediate action because their legal window to file typically closes three years after the last event occurred.

Legal guidance provides essential support to help you meet deadlines and organize your evidence while efficiently navigating the CRD process so your claim receives a proper evaluation. A skilled Costa Mesa sexual harassment lawyer can assist you in defending your employee rights.

FAQs

What Qualifies as Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?

Unwelcome actions like inappropriate remarks, sexual advances, visual displays, physical touching, or demands for sexual favors all qualify as sexual harassment in the workplace. Unwanted behavior can come from supervisors, colleagues, or clients. When a hostile work environment exists, California employers are breaking the law. If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies, consult with a Costa Mesa sexual harassment attorney.

Can I Report Harassment If I’m Not the Direct Victim?

Yes, in California, employees can report observed sexual harassment even when they themselves are not the victim. The entire workplace suffers from a hostile work environment because employers must investigate all credible complaints in accordance with legal standards. Employees who report misconduct help protect their coworkers while stopping further inappropriate behavior.

What Should I Do If My Employer Ignores My Complaint?

If your employer fails to investigate or resolve a sexual harassment complaint, you have the right to take further action. The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) accepts harassment complaints and provides immediate “right-to-sue” letters upon request. Maintaining documentation of all interactions and consulting with a lawyer can help protect your rights and guide your subsequent actions.

How Long Do I Have to File a Sexual Harassment Claim in California?

The Civil Rights Department (CRD) allows employees three years to file harassment complaints from the date of their final harassment incident under California law. Following the time limit, you will receive a right-to-sue letter, which permits you to initiate legal action in civil court. Timely action is essential because any delay might weaken evidence and degrade witness memories.

Can I Be Fired for Reporting Sexual Harassment?

You cannot be fired for reporting sexual harassment in California. California labor codes prohibit retaliation against individuals who report sexual harassment. Your employer has no right to demote you, terminate your employment, or punish you when you report an issue in good faith. A separate legal claim becomes available to you if your employer retaliates against you. Documenting your complaint and any subsequent changes in your employment status strengthens your case when necessary.

Contact a Costa Mesa Sexual Harassment Lawyer

When experiencing sexual harassment at your Costa Mesa job, you can receive support and guidance to handle the situation. California legislation provides robust protections, while local entities, including the Civil Rights Department and Orange County agencies, help you seek justice.

Our Costa Mesa legal team at Engels-Janzen provides dedicated support to victims of sexual harassment by ensuring employers take responsibility and help restore a respectful workplace. Our legal representation combines compassion with strategic planning to provide solutions tailored to your specific case.

Reach out to Engels-Janzen now to book a confidential consultation to initiate the process of safeguarding your rights and regaining your peace of mind.