If you’ve experienced sexual harassment at work, it’s natural to be concerned about retaliation or damage to your professional reputation. While California law provides protections against retaliation, remaining completely anonymous when filing a formal complaint may not always be possible—especially if the case proceeds to litigation.
Anonymous Complaints to Your Employer
You may be able to report harassment anonymously through your company’s internal channels, such as a hotline or human resources system. However, if the employer needs to investigate the claim, they may need...
Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Sexual Harassment Complaint in California?
Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Sexual Harassment Complaint in California?
Yes, California law sets specific deadlines—known as statutes of limitations—for filing a sexual harassment complaint. If you’ve experienced harassment at work, it’s important to act quickly to preserve your legal rights and options.
Current Filing Deadlines
Under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), the current statute of limitations for filing a sexual harassment complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) is:
Three years from the last incident of harassment or...
Under California Labor Law, What Protections Do I Have Against Retaliation After Reporting Sexual Harassment?
California Labor Law provides strong protections for employees who report sexual harassment in the workplace. If you report harassment in good faith—whether it’s directed at you or a coworker—you are legally protected from retaliation by your employer or anyone acting on their behalf.
What Is Considered Retaliation?
Retaliation can take many forms and includes any adverse action taken against you for reporting or participating in a sexual harassment investigation. Examples include:
Termination or demotion
Reduction in pay or hours
Negative performance reviews without...
Can I Sue My Employer for Sexual Harassment in California?
Yes, you can sue your employer for sexual harassment in California if you have experienced unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile work environment or results in adverse employment actions. California law provides strong protections for employees and holds employers accountable for harassment by supervisors, coworkers, or even non-employees under certain conditions.
What Is Considered Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment may include:
Unwelcome sexual advances
Requests for sexual favors
Offensive comments, jokes, or gestures
Inappropriate touching or...
What Steps Should I Take to Protect My Right to Sue If I Experience Sexual Harassment at Work?
If you’ve experienced sexual harassment at work, it’s critical to take the right steps early to protect your rights and preserve your ability to file a legal claim. Under California law, you are entitled to a safe and respectful workplace, and you have legal remedies if those rights are violated.
1. Document the Harassment
Start by keeping a detailed, written record of each instance of harassment. This documentation should include:
Dates and times of each incident
What was said or done
Who was involved or witnessed the incident
How the conduct affected you or your...
What Qualifies as Sexual Harassment in the Workplace Under California Labor Law?
Sexual harassment in the workplace is a serious violation of California labor law. The state provides strong protections for employees to ensure a safe, respectful, and equitable work environment. Understanding what constitutes sexual harassment can help you recognize unlawful conduct and take appropriate legal action if needed.
Definition of Sexual Harassment
Under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), sexual harassment includes any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
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