Sexual Harassment
It is illegal in California for anyone at work to make unwelcomed comments of a sexual nature towards any other employee or worker. All employees and workers in California are entitled to a workplace that is free from unwelcomed sexual comments, behavior, or actions.
Every employee is accountable under the law if he or she engages in sexual harassment of another employee.
Both men and women can be victims of sexual harassment.
The law protects you whether you are a legal resident or not.
The California laws protect employees who may be undocumented at the time from sexual harassment.
Someone who is not directly the target of sexual harassment, but who witnesses the sexual harassment in their workplace and who’s ability to effectively perform their job is affected is also protected under California Law.
What do I do if I feel I have been subjected to sexual harassment?
If you feel that you have been subjected to sexual harassment, you could complain in writing to Human Resources. If there is no Human Resources Department at your work, then you could complain in writing to someone who is in charge of the company. If you can, it is best to send an email to document your complaint.
If your employer demotes you, transfer you, takes away your responsibilities, or fires you because you made a complaint, this is illegal. This is called retaliation. If your employer retaliates against you for making a complaint of sexual harassment, then you should seek a lawyer immediately.
If you are afraid to complain, then please seek the assistance of a lawyer. No one should live in fear that they would lose their job if they are the victims of sexual harassment and try and stop it.
The Law Offices of Maryann Gallagher has been handling sexual harassment cases for over 25 years. As a woman, Maryann Gallagher has particular sensitivity and compassion for anyone who is mistreated unfairly at work and sexually harassed. Our firm will fight tirelessly to protect and defend the rights of every employee to work in a workplace free from harassment.
There are a number of remedies available to employees who are found to have been subjected to sexual harassment or retaliation, or both at work. You may be entitled to receive your loss of wages, any promotions, bonuses or raises you were denied, the benefits you may have lost. You may also be entitled to recover for the emotional toll that the harassment and retaliation had on you.
You do not have to feel you are alone. We are here to help you. We are just a phone call or email away. Everything you tell us is confidential. So do not be afraid to call and we will see if we can help you.
Call The Law Offices of Maryann Gallagher at 213-626-1810, or email us here.