At Moore Ruddell LLP, we firmly believe in creating a world where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected in their workspace. When these values are compromised, it becomes our primary mission to help those affected to navigate the complex and often intimidating landscape of employment law. If you’re dealing with sexual harassment from a coworker in California, please know that you’re not alone, and there are concrete steps you can take to safeguard your rights.
Understanding Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment can take many forms, including unwanted physical contact, derogatory comments, explicit messages, or inappropriate gestures, to name a few. However, it’s important to understand that any behavior making you feel uncomfortable or threatened might constitute sexual harassment.
Your Rights and Responsibilities
As an employee, you have the right to a workplace free from sexual harassment, a right enforced by the Civil Rights Department. These rights include transgender discrimination, ensuring that every employee, regardless of gender identity, is free from harassment and discrimination.
If you’re facing harassment, you’re expected to report it to your employer, human resources, or your supervisor. It’s important to remember to document each incident, including dates, times, locations, any potential witnesses, and the nature of the harassment. This evidence will prove invaluable should legal action become necessary.
Addressing the Issue with the Offender
In some instances, you might feel safe and comfortable enough to address the issue directly with the coworker involved. Express your feelings clearly, stating that their actions are inappropriate and unwanted. However, your safety and well-being are paramount, so only take this step if you feel it’s the right course of action for you.
Report to Management or Human Resources
It’s essential to promptly report any incidents of harassment to your immediate supervisor, human resources department, or any person designated by your company to handle such matters. If your immediate supervisor is the perpetrator, report to their superior. Be sure to follow any formal procedures your employer might have in place for reporting these incidents.
Legal Protection Against Retaliation
Understand that the law protects you against retaliation. This means that your employer cannot demote, fire, transfer, or take any unfavorable action against you for reporting sexual harassment or participating in an investigation.
Seeking Legal Advice from Moore Ruddell LLP
At times, your employer may not adequately address your complaint or, worse, retaliate against you. In such instances, reaching out to our Los Angeles sexual harassment lawyers at Moore Ruddell LLP for a free consultation can be an effective way of safeguarding your rights and pursuing justice.
We stand with you in your fight against workplace harassment, and together, we can make the working world safer and more respectful for everyone.