Employees should never have to be subjected to sexual harassment in the workplace, but unfortunately, it still happens almost every day. Sexual harassment can include a number of different types of inappropriate actions, including lewd comments, inappropriate jokes, and even forced sexual acts. While women are the primary victims of sexual harassment in the workplace, men can also be subjected to this type of harassment. If you have been the victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, contact a Sparrow Law Group employment lawyer today.
Why Choose Sparrow Law Group?
Sparrow Law Group is a full-service plaintiff’s employment litigation firm, and we pride ourselves on being the premiere sexual harassment law firm in California. At Sparrow Law Group, you are not just another case number. Our discrimination attorneys will communicate with you directly, get to know you and craft a tailored approach specifically for your case. We have the experience to anticipate defense tactics, and we are capable and ready to counter those moves. With Sparrow Law Group, you have a true friend and ally in your corner as you navigate the stressful and emotional landscape of a sexual harassment case.
What Qualifies As Sexual Harassment?
You might be wondering what type of conduct qualifies as sexual harassment. According to Federal law, sexual harassment can include “unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature” (29 CFR § 1604.11). Generally speaking, sexual harassment falls into one of two categories. Those categories are “quid pro quo” harassment and “hostile work environment” harassment.
Quid pro quo sexual harassment occurs when threats are made against an employee if they refuse to participate in sexual acts or promotions and other perks are promised in exchange for sexual favors. Alternatively, sexual harassment can occur as a result of a hostile work environment when an employee becomes the victim of unwanted sexual advances, derogatory comments, sexual jokes, explicit photos, or other behavior. Remember that sexual harassment can occur to both women and men, and the offensive behavior does not necessarily have to be sexual in nature. Harassment based on gender alone can sometimes be enough to constitute sexual harassment.
Penalties And Damages For Sexual Harassment
Upon a successful sexual harassment claim, the harasser may be subject to certain penalties. These penalties can include termination, reduction in wages, demotion, and mandatory training or counseling. Additionally, the harasser may be subject to criminal penalties in some situations.
Victims of sexual harassment may also recover monetary damages in these cases. Damages may include back pay, front pay, medical bills for treatment of emotional distress, career counseling services, costs associated with a new job search, and other expenses caused by the harassment. Victims may also be entitled to punitive damages, although California law sets high standards of proof that must be met for punitive damages to be awarded.
Contact A Sexual Harassment Attorney Today
Employers who allow sexual harassment to continue in the workplace should be held accountable, and the Sparrow Law Group can help ensure that they are. If you have experienced direct harassment or a hostile work environment, contact us today. We treat every client like family, and we will work diligently to ensure that your rights are protected. Contact our office today to let our attorneys go to work for you.