Every employee deserves a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. Unfortunately, workplace harassment remains a problem that affects thousands of California workers.
Despite clear laws prohibiting such behavior, many employers fail to take the necessary steps to protect their employees. If you think you have been the victim of workplace harassment, contact Elite Employment Law today to schedule a free consultation with a Laguna Hills harassment lawyer.
Why Choose Elite Employment Law?
Confronting workplace harassment can be overwhelming, especially when facing a powerful employer. At Elite Employment Law, our experienced employment law attorney is dedicated to fighting for the rights of employees throughout Orange County and Southern California. We offer:
- Free initial consultations. We will evaluate your case and discuss your options at no cost to you.
- Experience in both federal and California employment laws. Our attorney stays up-to-date on the latest developments in employment law to provide you with the best possible representation.
- A proven track record of successful harassment claims. We have surpassed a 97 percent success rate and have helped numerous clients recover damages and find justice in workplace harassment cases.
- Compassionate, client-focused representation. We understand the emotional toll of workplace harassment and are committed to supporting you throughout the legal process.
- Comprehensive legal services. From internal complaint assistance to litigation, we guide you through every step of your case.
Our firm can assist you with:
- Evaluating the strength of your case
- Gathering and preserving evidence
- Filing complaints with the appropriate government agencies
- Negotiating settlements with employers
- Representing you in court if a lawsuit becomes necessary
We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you. This allows you to seek justice without worrying about upfront legal fees.
Understanding Workplace Harassment
Workplace harassment can occur in many different ways, including:
- Unfair treatment based on protected characteristics
- Discrimination
- Inappropriate behavior that creates a hostile work environment
- Bullying or emotional abuse
- Sexual harassment
These negative experiences can have serious consequences for both your career and mental health. What was once an enjoyable livelihood may become a source of dread, affecting your job performance and overall well-being.
Long-term exposure to abusive behavior can lead to chronic anxiety, depression, and feelings of helplessness or isolation. Seek help if you are being harassed.
Types of Workplace Harassment
Harassment in the workplace can take many forms, including:
- Verbal harassment. Including offensive jokes, slurs, epithets, or name-calling
- Physical harassment. Unwanted touching, physical assault, or threatening behavior
- Visual harassment. Displaying offensive images, posters, or objects
- Sexual harassment. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature
- Quid pro quo harassment. When job benefits are made contingent on submitting to harassing behavior.
- Retaliation. Adverse action taken against an employee for reporting harassment or participating in an investigation
Your Legal Rights in California
You have legal protections against workplace harassment. In California, these rights are particularly strong, going beyond federal standards. Key laws protecting California workers include:
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
- Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)
FEHA applies to all California employers with five or more employees, offering broader protection than federal law. Under FEHA, employers are required to:
- Implement clear, written anti-harassment policies
- Provide regular training on harassment prevention
- Promptly investigate all harassment complaints
- Take immediate action to address and stop harassing behavior
Protected Characteristics in California
California law prohibits harassment based on numerous protected characteristics, including:
- Race, color, or national origin
- Religion
- Sex, including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions
- Gender, gender identity, and gender expression
- Sexual orientation
- Age (40 and older)
- Physical or mental disability
- Medical condition
- Genetic information
- Marital status
- Military or veteran status
Recognizing a Hostile Work Environment
A hostile work environment exists when harassment becomes so severe and pervasive that it interferes with an employee’s ability to perform their job. To qualify as a hostile work environment, the behavior must be:
- Based on a protected characteristic (e.g., race, gender, age, disability)
- Persistent and ongoing
- Severe enough to disrupt your work or career progress
- Inadequately addressed by your employer
It’s important to note that isolated incidents or minor annoyances generally do not constitute a hostile work environment unless they are extremely serious. The law looks at the totality of the circumstances to determine if the conduct is sufficiently severe or pervasive to create a hostile work environment.
Taking Action Against Workplace Harassment
If you are experiencing workplace harassment, it is essential to take steps to protect yourself. Some helpful actions include:
- Document all incidents. Keep a detailed record of each harassing incident, including dates, times, locations, and any witnesses. Save any relevant emails, text messages, or other communications.
- Report the behavior. Inform your HR department or supervisor about the harassment in writing. Follow your company’s established procedures for reporting harassment.
- Know your company’s policies. Familiarize yourself with your employer’s harassment policies and procedures. Most companies are required to have these in place and to provide them to all employees.
- Seek support. Confide in trusted colleagues, friends, or family members. Consider seeking professional counseling to help cope with the emotional impact of harassment.
- File a formal complaint. If your employer fails to address the issue adequately, consider filing a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) or the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
- Consult with an attorney. An experienced Laguna Hills harassment attorney can provide valuable guidance on your rights and the best course of action for your specific situation.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
In California, there are strict time limits for filing workplace harassment claims. Under FEHA, you generally have three years from the date of the last incident of harassment to file a complaint with the DFEH. However, you should act as quickly as possible to preserve evidence and strengthen your case.
Contact a Laguna Hills Harassment Lawyer Today
Do not let workplace harassment derail your career or compromise your well-being. If you are dealing with a hostile work environment in Laguna Hills or the surrounding area, contact Elite Employment Law. Our experienced California harassment attorney is ready to listen to your story and fight for your rights.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. At Elite Employment Law, we are committed to creating safer, more equitable workplaces. Let us help you stand up against harassment and reclaim your right to a respectful, professional work environment.