Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Glendale

About Sexual Harassment Law in Glendale, United States

Sexual harassment is a serious issue that affects many individuals in workplaces and public environments, including Glendale, United States. Sexual harassment refers to unwanted verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. It is not only morally wrong, but also illegal under both federal and California state laws, which apply in Glendale. Victims of sexual harassment have specific rights and protections designed to help them seek justice and protect themselves from further harm.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several reasons you may need a lawyer if you have experienced, witnessed, or have been accused of sexual harassment in Glendale. Some common scenarios include:

• You are experiencing ongoing sexual harassment at your workplace and do not know how to respond or report it safely
• Your complaint to your employer has not been addressed or has resulted in retaliation, such as demotion or termination
• You are unsure whether the behavior you experienced or observed meets the legal definition of sexual harassment
• You have been accused of sexual harassment and need guidance on responding to allegations
• You want to pursue a legal claim against your employer or another party for damages or injunctive relief
• You are navigating settlement discussions and want your rights protected

Local Laws Overview

Glendale is located in California, so both state and federal laws apply. Key aspects include:

• California law, especially the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), provides broader protections than federal law. FEHA prohibits harassment in workplaces of any size, while federal law applies to employers with 15 or more employees.
• Harassment can involve supervisors, coworkers, or even non-employees like clients or customers.
• Workplaces are required to have policies against harassment and provide employees with training on sexual harassment prevention.
• Victims are protected from retaliation for reporting or opposing sexual harassment.
• Individuals have the right to file complaints through both state and federal agencies, such as the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment can include unwanted touching, sexual comments or jokes, lewd emails or messages, displaying sexually explicit material, or requests for sexual favors. It must be unwelcome and based on sex or gender.

Do I need to be an employee to be protected?

No, protections extend to freelancers, interns, job applicants, and sometimes customers or clients who experience harassment in professional settings.

Is there a time limit to file a complaint?

Yes. In California, under FEHA, you usually have three years from the date of the last incident to file a complaint with DFEH. Federal complaints with EEOC typically have a 300-day filing deadline.

What should I do if I experience sexual harassment?

Document the behavior, follow your employer’s reporting procedure, and keep copies of any communications. If you do not feel safe or your employer does not respond, contact a lawyer or a government agency.

Can my employer retaliate against me for reporting harassment?

No. Both state and federal laws protect you from retaliation such as firing, demotion, or negative shifts after reporting harassment.

What are the possible outcomes of a legal claim?

Outcomes can include reinstatement to your job, monetary compensation for emotional distress or lost wages, policy changes at your workplace, and punitive damages in some cases.

Who investigates sexual harassment complaints in Glendale?

Complaints may be investigated by the employer, state agencies like DFEH, federal agencies like EEOC, or law enforcement if the conduct is criminal.

Does sexual harassment have to involve physical contact?

No. Verbal and visual conduct, such as sexual jokes, comments, or sharing inappropriate images, can also constitute sexual harassment.

Do I need to quit my job to file a claim?

No. You do not have to resign to bring a sexual harassment claim. In fact, quitting without consulting a lawyer may impact some of your rights or remedies.

Can I file a lawsuit if my complaint is not resolved?

Yes. After filing with DFEH or EEOC and completing their process, you may receive a "right to sue" notice, allowing you to pursue your claim in civil court.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or immediate assistance, consider contacting these organizations:

• Department of Fair Employment and Housing (California DFEH) - Handles workplace harassment claims in California
• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) - Federal agency investigating discrimination and harassment
• California Sexual Assault Hotline - Offers support and referral services
• Glendale Police Department - For criminal investigations
• Local Glendale community organizations and legal aid clinics specializing in workplace rights

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with a sexual harassment concern in Glendale, consider taking these steps:

• Document all relevant incidents and communications as thoroughly as possible.
• Review your workplace’s sexual harassment policy and reporting procedures.
• Consult a qualified employment lawyer with experience in sexual harassment cases. Many offer free initial consultations.
• File a complaint with a state or federal agency if your employer does not resolve the issue or if you face retaliation.
• Reach out to local support organizations for guidance or emotional support during the process.

Taking action can help protect your rights and foster a safer, more respectful environment for everyone. Legal professionals and support organizations in Glendale are ready to assist you every step of the way.