Sexual harassment is a type of discrimination that occurs in the workplace, educational institutions, or other professional and social settings. It is defined as unwelcome requests for sexual favors, sexual advances, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination and inappropriate behavior that violates state and federal laws.
When individuals find themselves the victims of sexual harassment, they often feel helpless and alone. However, it is important to know that laws are in place to protect you from this type of discrimination. An experienced Irvine sexual harassment lawyer can help you understand your rights and options under employment law.
Representing Sexual Harassment Victims in Irvine, California
The Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams is a team of experienced Irvine sexual harassment lawyers dedicated to protecting the rights of victims of this type of discrimination. We understand the physical and emotional toll sexual harassment can take on an individual. We also know that it can be challenging to speak up against a person in a position of power. Our goal is to provide you with the legal support and guidance you need to stand up for your rights and handle sexual harassment.
We have represented many sexual harassment victims in Irvine, California. We have the experience and knowledge to handle your case. We will work tirelessly to get you the justice you deserve. If you are ready to take action, contact us today to begin a consultation.
What Are Common Examples of Sexual Harassment in Irvine, California?
Sexual harassment can take many different forms. It does not have to be overtly sexual in nature. It can be anything that creates a hostile or offensive work environment. Some common examples of sexual harassment include:
- Unwanted sexual advances. This can include unwanted physical contact, such as hugging, kissing, or touching. It can also include verbal conduct, such as making sexually suggestive comments or remarks about someone’s appearance.
- Requests for sexual favors. This can include asking for sexual favors in exchange for a promotion or other type of work benefit.
- Unwelcome comments or jokes. Sexual harassment can also include making offensive comments or jokes about someone’s sex, gender, or sexual orientation. It can also include displaying offensive pictures or videos.
- Physical assault. This can include unwanted physical contact, such as touching, grabbing, or groping, that is of a sexual nature and was not consented to.
- Verbal or visual conduct. This can include making sexually explicit comments, gestures, or faces. It can also include sending sexually explicit emails, text messages, or social media messages.
What Are Examples of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
Sexual harassment can occur in any type of workplace, including an office, factory, restaurant, or retail store. It can also occur in educational institutions, such as schools or colleges. Some common examples of workplace sexual harassment include:
- Unwanted sexual advances from a supervisor for a promotion. This can include a supervisor making sexually suggestive comments or remarks about an employee’s appearance. It can also include a supervisor requesting sexual favors in exchange for a promotion or other type of work benefit.
- Repeated pressure to date from a coworker. This can include a coworker asking an individual out on a date repeatedly, even after being told no. It can also include making sexually suggestive comments or remarks about an individual’s appearance.
- Unwelcome sexual comments or jokes from a coworker. This can include making offensive comments or jokes about an individual’s sex, gender, or sexual orientation. These jokes can be made in person or made through email, text message, or social media and certainly have no place in the workplace.
- Physical assault from a coworker. This can include unwanted physical contact, such as touching, grabbing, or groping, that is of a sexual nature and was not consented to while in the workplace.
These are just a few examples of sexual harassment in the workplace that are difficult to hear, but they, unfortunately, do occur. If you have unfortunately experienced any form of sexual harassment at work, it is important to know that you are not alone and there are options available to you.
What Can I Do If I Have Experienced Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
If you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, a few options are available to you. You can:
- Report the harassment to your employer. You can report the harassment to your employer, and they are required by law to investigate the claims.
- Remove yourself from any unsafe situations. You can also remove yourself from any situations that you feel are unsafe. This includes removing yourself from the harassing situation and finding a safe place to work while conducting the investigation.
- File a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is a federal agency that investigates discrimination claims in the workplace, including sexual harassment.
- File a lawsuit. You can file a sexual harassment lawsuit against your employer or the individual who harassed you.
The best course of action for you depends on your individual situation. You should speak with an experienced Irvine sexual harassment lawyer to discuss your options and determine the best action plan.
Do I Need an Irvine Sexual Harassment Lawyer?
If you have been the victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, you may be feeling confused, scared, and alone. There are many laws and regulations that govern workplace harassment, and it can be difficult to know where to turn or what to do next.
An experienced Irvine sexual harassment lawyer can help you in several ways, including:
- Expertise. Sexual harassment laws are complex, which is why there are dedicated attorneys who focus their practice on this specific area of law. An experienced lawyer has the knowledge and resources to help you navigate the process and ensure your rights are protected.
- Objectivity. It can be difficult to remain objective after experiencing sexual harassment at work. An attorney can provide you with an outside perspective and help you to see the situation more clearly.
- Protect your job. An experienced lawyer understands how to protect your job while you are pursuing a claim of sexual harassment. This is especially important if you plan on filing a lawsuit against your employer.
- Investigation. An attorney can help investigate your claim and gather evidence to support your allegations. This is an important step in any sexual harassment claim, and an experienced lawyer knows how to investigate and build a strong case.
- Get you the compensation you deserve. If you are successful in your sexual harassment claim, you may be entitled to compensation for damages such as lost wages, emotional distress, and more. An attorney can fight to get you the maximum amount of compensation possible.
The value of an experienced Irvine sexual harassment attorney is immeasurable. If you have been the victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, do not hesitate to contact an experienced lawyer who can help you protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve.
What Is Settlement Worth in an Irvine Sexual Harassment Case?
The value of a sexual harassment settlement depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of the harassment. The more severe the harassment, the higher the settlement value can be. This includes factors such as the number of times you were harassed, the type of harassment, and whether the harassment was physical or verbal.
- The impact on your life. The settlement value also considers the impact that the harassment had on your life. This can include lost wages, emotional distress, and any physical injuries you suffered.
- The strength of your case. With a strong case, you are more likely to receive a higher settlement value. This includes factors such as whether you have witnesses to the harassment, whether there is video or photographic evidence, and whether you have been subject to retaliation.
Any combination of these factors impacts the value of your sexual harassment settlement. Only an experienced attorney can properly evaluate your case and determine what it is worth.
What Are the Steps in a Sexual Harassment Claim in Orange County?
The steps in a sexual harassment claim vary depending on the specific facts of your case, but there are some general steps that are typically involved. These steps include:
- Speak with an attorney. The first step in any sexual harassment claim is to speak with an experienced attorney. An attorney can review the facts of your case and advise you of your legal options.
- File a complaint. The next step is to file a complaint with the appropriate governmental agency. This is usually either with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or your state’s fair employment agency.
- Investigate your claim. Once your complaint has been filed, the EEOC or state agency investigates your claim. This might involve interviewing witnesses, reviewing evidence, and determining whether there is sufficient evidence to support your claim.
- File a lawsuit. If the EEOC or state agency finds that there is enough evidence to support your claim, you may be able to file a lawsuit against your employer. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
- Settle your case. In many cases, sexual harassment claims will be settled before they go to trial. An experienced attorney can help you negotiate a fair settlement with your employer. If you end up going to trial, an attorney can also help you present your case in the most persuasive way possible.
Tips for Working With Irvine Sexual Harassment Attorneys
If you have been the victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, it is important to work directly with an attorney who can help you protect your rights. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when working with an attorney:
- Be prepared to discuss your case. When you meet with an attorney, be prepared to discuss the details of your case. This includes discussing the specifics of the harassment you experienced, as well as the impact it had on your life. The more information you can provide, the better.
- Be honest with your attorney. It is important to be honest with your attorney about the facts of your case. Do not withhold any information, as this could jeopardize your case.
- Keep track of evidence. If you have any evidence of the sexual harassment you experienced, be sure to keep it in a safe place. This could include things like emails, text messages, video footage, or anything else that could be used to support your claim.
- Do not sign anything without consulting an attorney. If your employer asks you to sign a settlement agreement or waiver, do not do so without first consulting an attorney. These agreements may waive your right to file a claim or receive compensation.
FAQs
Q: What is considered sexual harassment in California?
A: Sexual harassment can take many different forms, but it generally includes any unwelcome sexual advances or conduct in the workplace. This can include anything from verbal comments to physical touching.
Q: How do I know if I have a sexual harassment claim?
A: The best way to know for sure is to speak with an experienced attorney. An attorney can review the facts of your case and advise you of your legal options.
Q: What are the fees for sexual harassment attorneys?
A: The fees for an attorney vary depending on the specific facts of your case. Many attorneys work on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if you recover compensation in your case.
Q: Are companies liable for sexual harassment?
A: In many cases, companies can be held liable for the actions of their employees. This is especially true if the company knew or should have known about the harassment and failed to take appropriate action.
Contact the Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams Today
If you have been the victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At the Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams, we understand the complex legal issues involved in these cases, and we are dedicated to fighting for the compensation our clients deserve. There isn’t a single client or case that is too big or too small for our firm, and we are ready to aggressively pursue every claim we take on.
To learn more about how we can help you, contact us online to express interest in our services. We look forward to meeting and hearing more about your case.