Sexual harassment is a form of abuse.  It’s an abuse of power and authority.  It robs victims of their respect and dignity.  It is estimated that sexual harassment may affect about half of the women and up to 20% of the men in the workplace.  In 2008, nearly 14,000 sexual harassment discrimination complaints were filed with the U.S. Equal Employment & Opportunity Commission.

Whether the harasser is a supervisor or co-worker, employers may be legally responsible for sexual harassment against their employees.  There are two forms of sexual harassment in the workplace:

• Hostile Workplace Sexual Harassment
• Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment

Hostile Workplace Sexual Harassment occurs when an employer is subjected to severe or persuasive sexual behavior that makes the work environment abusive.  This type of sexual harassment includes lewd and vulgar comments, sexist remarks and insults, and inappropriate, unwanted physical contact.

Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment happens when an employer conditions an employee’s employment benefits and promotions on an exchange of sexual favors.

Victims of sexual harassment suffer more than mere technical violations of their legal rights.  Depending on the situation, sexual harassment victims can experience anything ranging from mild irritation to severe psychological damage.  Likewise, the impact on the victims’ career and life may be minimal or it may leave them in ruins.  Too often, victims who speak up become targets of retaliation, backlash and/or are blamed for provoking the harassment.

Employees subjected to unlawful conduct in California in violation of their rights under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (including unlawful discrimination and/or harassment) must file a complaint with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) within one year or they may lose their right to sue.

Markson Pico LLP fights to protect victims of sexual harassment in the workplace.  We offer the support and guidance needed to assert victim’s legal rights and to help victims throughout the difficult recovery process.

If you are a victim of sexual harassment, call Markson Pico LLP today at 213-895-4000 for a free consultation.