The 2017 Annual Report prepared by the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (FEHA) states that almost 10% of employment-related claims allege various forms of sexual harassment.
At Minnis & Smallets LLP, we are committed to protecting employees from such misconduct, and to holding employers who protect harassers accountable, so we are prepared to seek all available remedies through government agencies and in court. Please contact our firm to set up an appointment with a San Jose sexual harassment lawyer who can explain your rights.
Title VII for the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) protect employees by prohibiting two types of sexual harassment in the workplace:
FEHA is broader than the federal law in two key aspects. For one, you can claim quid pro quo harassment against any employee – not just a supervisor. Plus, you can file a sexual harassment claim if you work for a smaller California employer with five or more workers. Federal law only protects employees when the employer has at least 15 workers.
Depending on the specifics of your situation, you can file a sexual harassment claim against your employer through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California DFEH. The process is similar once you submit your complaint:
When you retain experienced legal counsel to address sexual harassment in the workplace, you have an advantage in succeeding on your claim. Your lawyer will:
In a sexual harassment claim, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses, such as back pay, fees, costs, front pay, and other monetary damages. You can also seek equitable remedies, including job reinstatement, hiring, a promotion, or other relief.
Please contact Minnis & Smallets LLP for more information on your rights and remedies in a sexual harassment case. Our employment law attorneys can schedule a consultation to review your circumstances and develop a strategy regarding your claim.