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Representing Employees Since 2009
Sexual Harassment
All employees deserve to work in an environment where they are free from harassment of any kind. It is difficult, if not possible, to work alongside co-workers or an employer who either commits an act of harassment, or allows harassment in the workplace. When it comes to sexual harassment, additional harm can be done that goes beyond other harassment. This is not to say that harassment can be a minor issue, but harassment of a sexual nature can carry with it significant emotional and/or physical harm experienced by the victim.
The Orange County Employment Law Attorneys of Nassiri Law Group understand just how sensitive and stressful sexual harassment can be when you are trying to do your job and move forward in life. To truly fight the individual or employer who has sexually harassed you, or who has allowed such harassment to take place, you will need the help of a highly skilled attorney.
Sexual Harassment Under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)
Pursuant to California law, sexual harassment is defined as “unwanted sexual advances, or visual, verbal or physical conduct in a sexual nature.” This definition is extremely broad precisely because sexual harassment can be committed in many shapes and forms. Conduct that fits the definition of sexual harassment under California law includes, but is certainly not limited to, the following:
- Unwelcome sexual advances;
- Making threats in retaliation to a victim’s negative response to sexual advances;
- Offering employment in exchange for sexual favors (quid pro quo);
- Verbal abuse that is sexual in nature (derogatory comments, slurs, jokes, etc.);
- Visual conduct (sexual gestures, displaying suggestive objects or pictures, leering, etc.); and
- Written/electronic conduct (emails, letters, texts, and other communication that is sexual in nature and unwanted).
Who’s Responsible if I Have Been Sexually Harassed in the Workplace?
Your employer has a responsibility and duty to ensure all employees have a safe work environment free from any type of harassment or discrimination. While an employer may try to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace, such harassment may continue to exist. As such, regardless of whether an employer is attempting to curb sexual harassment, the employer may still be held liable for what has happened to you. This is the nature of an employer/employee relationship.
In many situations, an employer could be “strictly liable” for acts such as sexual harassment committed by a supervisor of the employee. Further, depending upon the nature and severity of the sexual harassment in question, the individual(s) responsible for causing you harm may be found liable as well if the conduct violates California law in any way. For example, if you have been both verbally and physically sexually harassed, you may have a criminal case and/or a civil case in tort law against the responsible parties. In order to fully understand your options so that you can make an informed decision, you will need to discuss the matter with one of our seasoned Orange County Employment Law Attorneys at Nassiri Law Group.
Contact the Orange County Employment Law Attorneys of Nassiri Law Group Today
Sexual harassment has been a longstanding issue in the workplace for many Orange County employers and employees. Whether it is an employer or a co-worker committing sexual harassment, the consequences of such conduct can be devastating for the victim, both mentally and physically. Any type of discrimination or mistreatment in the workplace has the potential to cause significant harm, and sexual harassment is no exception. With many years of experience helping Orange County employees like you, the dedicated and skilled Orange County Employment Law Attorneys of Nassiri Law Group continue to provide legal representation that stands out from the rest. Many people have a difficult time speaking up to defend themselves, seeking to hold the responsible party accountable. This means that many employers and co-workers get away with sexual harassment. Whether you or a loved one experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, the first thing you should do is contact an attorney. To speak with one of our Employment Attorneys right away, contact the Nassiri Law Group today by calling (949) 375-4734 to schedule your free consultation.
