Fighting Back Against Sexual Harassment
If you have been subjected to sexual harassment in the workplace, no matter what your gender, you may be entitled to compensation under both California and federal law.
At Williams, Pinelli & Cullen, LLP, in San Jose, we help clients throughout the Silicon Valley and Bay Area who have been victimized by sexual harassment. Our lawyers' extensive litigation experience and reputation enable us to vigorously represent our clients. Contact us to discuss your case.
Getting Compensation for Inappropriate Behavior
There is a variety of circumstances in which victims of sexual harassment can be compensated:
- If you are fired because you reported alleged sexual harassment or failed to acquiesce to it, this would be considered a wrongful termination. If you have quit your job because you could no longer tolerate the harassment or any retaliation you received for complaining about alleged harassment, this would also be considered a form of wrongful termination.
- A court may also grant damages to compensate you for the pain and suffering of going through sexual harassment and any ensuing legal action. Your attorney's fees may also be compensated by the other side if you win your case.
In both cases, you may be entitled to reinstatement in your job and/or money damages for lost wages and other harms done to you.
Addressing Workplace Conduct Under Two Sets of Laws
Sexual harassment in the workplace is prohibited in different ways by both state and federal employment laws. While California law specifically forbids sexual harassment, federal law treats it as a form of sex discrimination.
Under both state and federal laws, sexual harassment need not involve direct physical contact. Actions that create a hostile work environment — like raunchy jokes, inappropriate calendars and other uncomfortable behavior — as well as attempts to coerce a person into accepting sexual advances through employment threats or incentives (quid pro quo) are covered under these laws.
Sexual harassment law is complicated, and the lines between acceptable and unacceptable behavior are often hard to determine. Contact us to learn more about your rights under California and federal law.
