When you face sexual harassment at your work, you might feel like you can’t do anything about it without losing your job, especially if it’s a supervisor. Our team of Oakland sexual harassment lawyers is here to change the narrative because we can help you get justice without jeopardizing your job.
At Arias Sanguinetti | Trial Lawyers, our Oakland personal injury lawyers have over 200 years of combined legal experience confronting workplaces that take advantage of their employees. We get you compensation and make sure you never feel unsafe again at work.
What Actions Are Defined as Sexual Harassment?
Many actions in the workplace can qualify as sexual harassment. If you have experienced one or more of these actions at your job, our team will help you get justice:
- Unwanted sexual advances: Any unwelcome or inappropriate touching, advances, or physical contact of a sexual nature in the workplace is considered harassment. This includes gestures, comments, or actions that go beyond the professional boundaries expected in a work setting.
- Sexual comments or jokes: Inappropriate comments, jokes, or remarks of a sexual nature within the workplace can contribute to a hostile atmosphere. This involves discussions about appearance, explicit language, or jokes that create discomfort in a professional setting.
- Display of explicit material: Sharing, displaying, or distributing sexually explicit materials, whether physical or digital, within the workplace is a form of sexual harassment. This includes sharing explicit content through work emails, social media, or other professional communication channels.
- Sexual coercion or pressure: Pressuring or coercing someone to engage in sexual activities against their will is a clear form of harassment in the workplace. This may involve explicit demands for sexual favors, threats, or promises of rewards in exchange for compliance.
- Unwanted sexual comments or advances online: In the digital age, sexual harassment extends to online interactions. Unwanted advances, comments, or messages through work-related emails, messaging platforms, or social media can create a hostile work environment.
- Sexual harassment by supervisors or colleagues: Harassment can come from various sources within the workplace, including supervisors, colleagues, or clients. Regardless of the source, it is essential to address and report such behavior to maintain a workplace culture that values respect and professionalism.
- Retaliation for rejecting advances: If an individual faces negative consequences, such as demotion, termination, or other forms of retaliation, for rejecting or reporting sexual advances, it constitutes a serious violation of workplace rights. Retaliation intensifies the gravity of the harassment claim you may have.
What Rights Against Sexual Harassment do You Have As an Employee in California?
As an employee in California, you have important rights and protections against sexual harassment in the workplace. The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits sexual harassment, covering all aspects of employment and applying to employers with five or more employees.
Under California Government Code § 12940, you have the right to a harassment-free workplace protected against unwelcome advances, comments, or offensive behavior. Employers are responsible for preventing and addressing sexual harassment.
You also have the right to report and file a complaint. You can report incidents to your employer or file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) without fear of retaliation, as it is illegal for employers to retaliate against employees who report sexual harassment or participate in an investigation.
Remember that employment laws can be complex, and it is advisable to seek guidance from an attorney to understand and protect your rights fully. Taking action ensures a workplace that is inclusive, respectful, and free from sexual harassment.
Oakland Sexual Harassment Lawyer Near Me 310-844-9696
Why Should You Hire an Oakland Sexual Harassment Attorney?
Hiring Oakland sexual harassment attorneys from Arias Sanguinetti | Trial Lawyers can provide support and guidance if you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace. Here are several reasons why seeking legal representation is beneficial:
Experience in Employment Law
An experienced Oakland sexual harassment attorney has experience in employment law and has a deep understanding of the applicable federal and state laws, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). We can use these laws to build a strong case on your behalf and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
In addition to our extensive experience in litigation of sexual harassment and sexual assault employment cases, our team has also written about sexual harassment for notable publications such as CAOC Forum Magazine.
Legal Strategy and Representation
Our attorneys will develop a strategic legal plan tailored to your specific situation. We guide you through the legal process, including filing appropriate legal documents, representing you in negotiations or mediation, and, if necessary, advocating for you in court.
With our knowledge, we effectively present your case and protect your rights throughout the proceedings, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your legal representation.
Maximizing Compensation
We will fight to ensure you receive the maximum compensation available to you. This may include damages for emotional distress, lost wages, medical expenses, and other losses resulting from the harassment. We will skillfully negotiate on your behalf or litigate the case if a fair settlement cannot be reached, aiming to secure the compensation you deserve and holding the responsible parties accountable.
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Our Compassionate Team Can Help You Feel Empowered
When you go to a sexual harassment lawyer in Oakland at Arias Sanguinetti | Trial Lawyers, we make sure that you feel strong and ready to take on the people who hurt you. We have all the resources to recover the damages you’ve experienced.
Contact us for a free consultation, and we’ll tell you how we can help.
Call or text 310-844-9696 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form