WALNUT CREEK SEXUAL HARASSMENT LAWYERS
Comprehensive Legal Support for Sexual Harassment Victims in Northern California
No one should have to deal with sexual harassment, but the unfortunate reality is that hostile work environments remain a severe problem. You should not suffer in silence if you have been made uncomfortable by a colleague, supervisor, or a company’s toxic culture.
Our Walnut Creek sexual harassment lawyers are prepared to stand up for you and fight to preserve your right to a safe work environment. Our experienced team at Ratner Molineaux can walk you through the process of filing a harassment claim and help you respond to any consequent discriminatory or retaliatory behavior. We have a strong track record of compassionately and aggressively representing clients in these cases and want you to feel comfortable with our approach. When you come to us for help, we will take the time to understand the specifics of your situation, outline your rights, and go to bat for you in and out of the courtroom.
If you are facing sexual harassment at work in Walnut Creek or the surrounding areas, our compassionate and skilled sexual harassment attorneys are here to support you, protect your rights, and seek the compensation you deserve.
Call Ratner Molineaux today at (925) 332-1444 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our sexual harassment attorneys in Walnut Creek!
Understanding Sexual Harassment Law in California
Sexual harassment can take many forms. Some types of harassment will be blatant and obvious, while others will be subtler but still inappropriate and unlawful.
Types of sexual harassment that contribute to an unsafe work environment include:
- Sexually Inappropriate Jokes or Comments. This includes supposedly innocuous jabs at someone’s physical appearance, choice of clothing, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and/or perceived promiscuity (or lack thereof). Sexual propositions made “in jest” are also extremely inappropriate.
- Inappropriate Physical Contact. Offering a high-five or shaking someone’s hand are generally acceptable forms of physical contact in the workplace, but unwanted hugs, kisses, or other types of touching are never permissible. No one should be touching you without your consent, even when the physical contact does not necessarily constitute sexual assault.
- Quid Pro Quos. A coworker, supervisor, or non-employee might offer to exchange career-based incentives or monetary rewards for sexual favors. For example, your boss could promise you a promotion if you agree to go on a date with them. These types of propositions are never acceptable.
Everyone should be able to earn a living without worrying about inappropriate comments, requests, or physical contact. If you are subject to a hostile work environment or being propositioned with quid pro quo, you likely have a sexual harassment claim. Take steps to protect yourself by thoroughly documenting each incident. Our Walnut Creek sexual harassment attorneys can assess your circumstances and help you review your legal options.
Steps to Take When Filing a Sexual Harassment Claim in California
If you are ready to pursue a claim, you may need to review your company’s official policy on sexual misconduct. In some situations, It may be prudent to file a complaint internally even if you are confident that your company’s HR department will be unhelpful. Failing to attempt to address the harassment internally could limit your ability to take future legal action against your employer.
Be aware that you cannot immediately file a civil lawsuit against an employer that has failed to address issues of sexual harassment. You must first file a claim with either the Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or California’s Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). In most cases, you will have 300 days to file a sexual harassment claim with EEOC or one year to file a claim with DFEH.
DFEH or EEOC will evaluate your complaint and may decide to conduct an investigation. Your employer will be required to respond to this investigation, and you will have a chance to review their response. If either government agency believes the law has been violated, they will generally initiate a mediation session between you and your employer. If your employer is uncooperative and an acceptable settlement cannot be reached, the government may file a lawsuit on your behalf.
If the government decides there is enough evidence to prove that your employer may have broken sexual harassment laws, they will complete their investigation and typically serve you with a Notice of Right to Sue. You will have ninety days from receiving this notice to file a civil lawsuit in state or federal court if you filed with EEOC, and you will have up to one year to pursue legal action if you filed with DFEH. You must act quickly and consult a legal professional on how best to move forward.
What Proof Do I Need in a Sexual Harassment Case?
Proving sexual harassment can be challenging, but certain types of evidence can strengthen your case:
- Documentation: Written records of incidents, including dates, times, and harassment descriptions. Diaries, journals, or logs can be particularly helpful.
- Electronic Evidence: Emails, text messages, voicemails, and other electronic communications that demonstrate harassment.
- Witness Testimonies: Statements from coworkers or others who witnessed the harassment or can corroborate your claims.
- Physical Evidence: Any physical items that support your case, such as inappropriate photos, notes, or gifts.
- Company Policies: Copies of workplace policies, training materials, and records of any complaints you filed with your employer.
Damages You May Be Entitled To
Victims of sexual harassment may be eligible for various types of compensation, including:
- Lost Wages: Compensation for any wages lost due to harassment or retaliation.
- Emotional Distress: Damages for mental anguish, anxiety, and trauma caused by the harassment.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious conduct, employers may be ordered to pay punitive damages.
- Attorney Fees: Reimbursement for legal costs associated with your case.
How Ratner Molineaux Can Help
At Ratner Molineaux, we bring extensive experience and a deep commitment to helping victims of workplace sexual harassment. From the initial consultation to resolution, we work tirelessly to ensure that your voice is heard and your case is handled with the utmost care.
What We Do for You:
Case Evaluation
- We review your situation to determine if it meets the legal criteria for sexual harassment and identify the best course of action.
Evidence Collection
- Gathering documentation such as emails, messages, witness statements, and records to build a strong case.
Filing Complaints
- Assisting you with filing a formal complaint with your employer, the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH), or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Negotiation and Settlement
- Working to resolve your case outside of court whenever possible, ensuring you receive fair compensation.
Litigation
- If necessary, our experienced Walnut Creek sexual harassment lawyers are prepared to represent you in court to pursue justice aggressively.
Contact Our Sexual Harassment Attorney in Walnut Creek Today
Our Walnut Creek sexual harassment lawyers are ready to help you navigate filing a claim with the EEOC or DFEH. We can represent you throughout a government investigation and assist you with filing a civil lawsuit if doing so becomes necessary. Our team at Ratner Molineaux is not afraid to go to court to pursue what is in your best interest, and we are also ready to combat other forms of employer misconduct that could result from filing a sexual harassment claim, including unlawful retaliation and wrongful termination.
Get the experienced legal help you need when fighting sexual harassment in the workplace. Schedule a free initial consultation by contacting us online or calling (925) 332-1444 today to get started with our Walnut Creek sexual harassment lawyers.
Workplace Sexual Harassment FAQs
What qualifies as sexual harassment in the workplace?
Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that affects an individual’s employment or creates a hostile work environment.
How do I prove sexual harassment?
Evidence may include emails, texts, voicemails, photos, witness testimony, or a detailed journal of incidents. An experienced attorney can help you collect and organize evidence effectively.
Should I report harassment to my employer before contacting a lawyer?
Yes, in most cases, you should follow your company’s procedures for reporting harassment. However, consulting with an attorney first can help you navigate the process and protect your rights.
Can I file a claim if the harassment happened a long time ago?
The statute of limitations varies:
- DFEH claims must generally be filed within three years of the incident.
- Federal EEOC claims must be filed within 180-300 days.
An attorney can help determine if you’re still eligible to file.
What should I do if my employer retaliates against me?
Retaliation is illegal. If you experience adverse actions like termination, demotion, or harassment after reporting, document everything and contact a lawyer immediately.
How much does it cost to hire a sexual harassment lawyer?
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront costs, and we only get paid if we win your case.
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