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Sexual harassment is unlawful behavior that involves unwanted or inappropriate sexual advances or conduct in the workplace or other professional settings. In Fresno, United States, both federal and California state laws strictly prohibit sexual harassment. These laws are designed to protect employees and individuals from discrimination and to promote a safe environment in the community and at work. Sexual harassment may occur between supervisors and subordinates, between coworkers, or even between customers and employees.
Seeking legal help for sexual harassment issues can be important in several scenarios. Many people contact a lawyer when they experience repeated unwanted sexual advances, offensive remarks, or when their complaints about harassment are ignored by supervisors or human resources. Legal advice is also crucial if a person faces retaliation after reporting sexual harassment. Sometimes, individuals who are falsely accused may require legal representation to protect their rights. Lawyers can help gather evidence, explain your rights, handle communications with your employer, and file complaints with government agencies, or even represent you in court if necessary.
Fresno follows the regulations set by California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) in addition to federal protections provided by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Under FEHA, sexual harassment is broadly defined and covers unwelcome verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature or based on sex, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation. Both employers with one or more employees and contractors can be held liable for sexual harassment in Fresno. The City of Fresno and Fresno County may have additional ordinances or policies, especially for public employees, but California’s state law generally offers robust protection for victims and strict obligations for employers, such as requiring sexual harassment prevention training for employees and supervisors.
Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, verbal or physical conduct or gestures of a sexual nature, inappropriate touching, displaying offensive images, and making jokes or comments of a sexual nature in the workplace or professional settings.
Yes, both men and women can be victims or perpetrators of sexual harassment. The law protects everyone from harassment regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
You should document the incidents, report them to your supervisor, human resources department, or following your employer’s complaint procedures. If you feel unsafe, or if your employer fails to act, consider contacting a lawyer or filing a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department.
Yes, California law requires all employers to take reasonable steps to prevent and correct harassment, including providing harassment prevention training and promptly investigating complaints.
Retaliation against employees who report sexual harassment is illegal. If this happens, you may have grounds for additional claims against your employer.
You generally have three years from the last incident to file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department. Filing deadlines may vary, so it is best to seek legal advice quickly.
While evidence strengthens your case, you do not need absolute proof to file a complaint. A lawyer can help you collect and present your evidence, such as notes, emails, or witness testimony.
Yes, California law allows you to pursue legal action directly against both the individual harasser and the employer, depending on the circumstances of your case.
You may be entitled to lost wages, emotional distress damages, attorney’s fees, and sometimes punitive damages. Each case is different, and a lawyer can help clarify your potential remedies.
No. Sexual harassment refers to harmful workplace or professional conduct, while sexual assault involves unwanted physical contact of a sexual nature and is a criminal offense. Both are serious and may overlap in some cases.
There are several local and state resources available to those affected by sexual harassment in Fresno:
If you believe you have been a victim of sexual harassment in Fresno, keep thorough records of the incidents and communications relating to the harassment. Report the behavior to your employer according to their policies. If the issue is not resolved or if you face retaliation, speak with an attorney who specializes in employment law or sexual harassment cases. They can guide you through the process of filing a complaint with local, state, or federal agencies, negotiating settlements, or pursuing a lawsuit if needed. Taking prompt, documented action increases your chances of a positive outcome and helps protect your legal rights.
