Sexual harassment is an unfortunate reality for many individuals in the workplace and other settings. Although it happens in locations all over the country, it can be especially prevalent in highly populated areas with a large business/corporate presence like Los Angeles.
Sexual harassment is a broad term encompassing various behaviors, such as remarks of a sexual nature, unwelcome touching, sexual propositions, insistent solicitation of sexual acts, or inappropriate jokes and gestures. Such behavior can take place among peers, from superiors, or even with clients or customers.
Unfortunately, many workers don’t actually understand the specifics of how the law works and what their rights are in this area. That’s why “sexual harassment lawyer near me” is one of the most commonly searched legal enquiries online. This article is meant to help readers better understand the experience and legal recourse they have in this situation
There Are Two Main Types of Sexual Harassment:
Creating a Hostile Workplace
This is when a coworker or superior exhibits abusive behavior over an extended period, creating a toxic and unhealthy workplace environment, making it difficult for an employee to perform his or her duties.
Quid Pro-Quo Harassment
This happens when a person in power, for example; a supervisor or manager, may exchange sexual favors from the employee in return for employment advantages, promotions or relief from punishment.
When to Seek the Services of a Sexual Harassment Lawyer Near Me
Although sexual harassment can be reported to the HR department of the company or the EEOC, it is important to consult a sexual assault attorney in most situations. Here are a few specific examples:
When HR Does Nothing
You’ve tried to say “stop” and have reported the harassment, but your employer does nothing constructive towards resolving the concern. A lawyer can assist you in taking the pressure up a notch.
When You Find Yourself Facing Retaliation
Retaliation occurs whenever someone is demoted, fired, or otherwise mistreated for reporting, or threatening to report harassment. This is unlawful, and a lawyer for workplace sexual harassment can ensure employers are held responsible for such retaliatory measures.
When the Harassment Is Severe
When harassment of an offensive nature is accompanied by any form of physical assault, it’s immediately time to seek legal help. A qualified sexual harassment lawyer near me can assist you with pressing criminal charges, securing restraining orders, and obtaining financial damages for abuse suffered.
For Out of Court Settlements
In many instances, sexual harassment cases come before a judge, even if there is no litigation involved. Having a skilled attorney represent you goes a long way in making sure that you receive reasonable compensation for your suffering, lost wages and even emotional anguish.
A Few Final Considerations
If you are experiencing sexually harassment, a strong legal understanding is necessary to protect yourself and possibly avoid retribution. Although filing internal complaints with your company may be helpful, having a sexual harassment lawyer is never a bad decision.
Be it to assist you in filing the complaint, going through legal forms, rules and regulations, or punishing the offender and getting your fair due for what you’ve gone through, the benefits of having a dedicated lawyer on your side are too numerous to list.
