At Sparrow Law Group LLP, we understand how devastating it can be to experience harassment in the workplace. Whether it’s unwanted sexual advances, demeaning comments, bullying, or retaliation for speaking up—you have rights, and you deserve to work in a safe, respectful environment.
We focus exclusively on Los Angeles employment law, and workplace harassment is one of the most common and serious issues we handle. If you’re being mistreated by a supervisor, coworker, or even an HR representative, we’re here to help you navigate your legal options and take action.
What Counts as Workplace Harassment?
According to the California Civil Rights Department, workplace harassment can take many forms, including:
- Sexual harassment (e.g., inappropriate comments, advances, or coercion)
- Hostile work environment (e.g., ongoing discriminatory or offensive behavior)
- Retaliation (e.g., being punished for reporting harassment or misconduct)
- Harassment based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other protected characteristics
If the behavior is unwelcome, persistent, and makes your job unbearable, it may be unlawful—and we want to help you hold your employer accountable.
Warning Signs of Workplace Harassment
Workplace harassment does not always look like shouting or slurs. Sometimes it builds slowly, showing up as patterns of exclusion, discomfort, or pressure. If something feels wrong at work, it is worth paying attention.
Not All Harassment Is Obvious
Harassment can show up in the form of repeated “jokes,” social isolation, offhand remarks about protected traits, or subtle retaliation for speaking up. According to California Government Code § 12940, you are protected from harassment based on race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, and other protected categories, even when the behavior is not blatant. It does not have to involve yelling or slurs to be illegal.
Many people experience harassment through exclusion, sarcasm, or passive-aggressive treatment that chips away at their well-being over time. These patterns often go unreported at first because they feel hard to name or prove.
However, just because something is subtle does not mean it is harmless. If you find yourself constantly uncomfortable at work due to repeated comments, behaviors, or actions targeting something personal about you, that may be a sign of harassment. Keeping a record of what happened, when, and who witnessed it can help if you decide to take action later.
Common Patterns to Watch For
The law does not cover one-off rude behavior, but it does protect you when offensive treatment becomes frequent, targeted, or creates a hostile work environment. This might look like being passed over for opportunities, being excluded from meetings, or constantly receiving unwanted comments about your appearance, identity, or private life.
When these experiences are linked to a protected category, they may meet the legal definition of workplace harassment. Pay attention to repeated patterns that make it hard to do your job or feel safe showing up at work.
If co-workers or supervisors are treating you differently because of your background or beliefs, or if your concerns are brushed aside when you speak up, those are important red flags. Knowing what to look for is the first step toward deciding what you want to do next.
What Should I Do if I am Being Harassed at Work?
When workplace harassment starts to interfere with your sense of safety or respect on the job, taking action can feel intimidating. You do have options though.
Begin by writing down what happened, including dates, times, what was said or done, and who was involved. Save emails, messages, or other records that support your experience. If someone else saw or heard the behavior, make a note of their name. Keeping a paper trail helps protect you and strengthens your position if you decide to take the next step.
Most employers have a policy for reporting misconduct, so check your employee handbook or speak with someone in human resources or another trusted manager. You deserve to feel respected where you work, and you do not have to figure this out on your own.
What Happens When You Contact an Attorney to File Charges for Harassment at Work?
Reaching out about harassment can feel like a big step, especially when emotions are high or the situation has been ongoing for a while. Once you connect with someone experienced in this area, you will find that the process becomes more manageable. You can get help understanding what your rights are, how to document what happened, and what steps might come next based on your specific experience.
The first step in many cases involves filing a formal complaint with the California Civil Rights Department under the Fair Employment and Housing Act, or with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Under California Government Code § 12960, you are required to file most complaints within three years of the harassment.
We’re On Your Side
Our team of Los Angeles employment harassment attorneys takes a compassionate, strategic approach to every case. We listen closely, investigate thoroughly, and fight hard to protect your career, your reputation, and your peace of mind.
Whether you’re ready to file a claim or just want to understand your options, we’re here to support you at every stage.
If you’re facing harassment at work, don’t wait. Contact our California workplace harassment lawyers today for a confidential consultation. You don’t have to go through this alone—and you don’t have to stay silent.