Types of Sexual Harassment in California

There is nothing wrong with expecting fair, equal, and respectful treatment in the workplace. It’s unfortunately common for someone to experience some form of discrimination or harassment at work. Sexual harassment is particularly aggressive, offensive, and harmful. If it happens to you, it’s vital that you hold your employer accountable for their actions or inactions. It’s also important to recognize the types of sexual harassment in California and how to take action.

One of the most important things you can do when you are the victim of sexual harassment is to hire a lawyer. You will want an experienced California sexual harassment attorney to help you through this ordeal. Finding someone with significant experience handling sexual harassment claims like yours, as well as someone with extensive knowledge of the state’s sexual harassment laws, may be the most important decision you make for your case. Our firm can help you.

Hire a Sexual Harassment Lawyer

There are many valid reasons to hire a sexual harassment lawyer. One of the most important reasons is to ensure that your case is handled correctly. Enduring sexual harassment can be humiliating and overwhelming.

You should have someone handling your case who can make sure you don’t make any costly mistakes. We at Asbill Law Group focus on protecting the rights of employees. We can bring empathy and personalization to your case, ensuring you have a chance.

Regrettably, sexual harassment is quite common across the state. According to recent data from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), 2024 saw just under 1,500 cases of workplace discrimination in California that were motivated by sex.

Additionally, a recent report from the Newcomb Institute at Tulane University stated that 88% of women in California have dealt with sexual harassment or assault at some point in their lives. That’s higher than the national average.

Living with the fact that you have been sexually harassed can be difficult. It may be beneficial to reach out to a local support group that focuses on sexual harassment and assault survivors, such as Bold Love or Healing with Harmony. Surrounding yourself with individuals who have gone through the same thing as you can be healing in many different ways. At the very least, it can be good to have a safe space to voice your concerns about your case and your hope for the future.

Types of Sexual Harassment in California

In California, sexual harassment generally takes two different forms. While there are many different behaviors that fall under these forms, sexual harassment is categorized overall into two main types. Those types are quid pro quo and a hostile work environment. If you find yourself on the receiving end of any sexual harassment, it is vital that you report the behavior through the proper channels and contact a lawyer as soon as you can.

• Quid pro quo. This form of sexual harassment, which is Latin for “this for that,” occurs when a supervisor offers a subordinate a promotion, raise, or other job benefit in exchange for sexual favors. Often coupled with the request for sexual favors is the implication that there will be negative consequences, such as firing or demotion, if the favors are not given.
• Hostile work environment. This form of sexual harassment occurs when unwelcome and harassing conduct leads to an intimidating or offensive work environment. The hope is that the victim will become so unhappy, insecure, or offended that they simply quit on their own. Harassment can take the form of offensive jokes, sexual comments, unwanted advances, unwanted touching, or even leering.

FAQs

What Are the Categories of Sexual Harassment?

Legally, sexual harassment is categorized into two main forms: Quid pro quo and a hostile work environment. However, in general terms, sexual harassment is often split into three distinct categories:

• Verbal. This includes offensive jokes, unwanted sexual comments, unwanted sexual advances, and any offensive language that’s sexual in nature.
• Non-verbal. This includes offensive gestures, suggestive looks, staring, or displaying sexual images or objects.
• Physical. This includes attempted touching, kissing, groping, pinching, or any physical contact that’s sexual in nature and totally unwanted.

What Qualifies as Sexual Harassment in California?

Any behavior that’s sexual in nature and makes somebody uncomfortable may qualify as sexual harassment in California. The state’s comprehensive labor laws forbid discrimination against any employees in any way, and sexual harassment falls under sex discrimination. If you believe you are being sexually harassed, you should report the behavior to your supervisor or HR department immediately, then contact a lawyer to start working on a legal claim.

How Do I Prove Sexual Harassment in California?

The only way you can prove sexual harassment in California is by gathering as much evidence as you can that supports your claim and backs up your case. The more evidence you have, the better. Be sure to document every incident of harassment. Get your hands on any video footage, audio recordings, emails, texts, written correspondence, and witness testimony that support your version of events. Your lawyer can help you gather evidence.

What Are Three Actions That Are Considered Sexual Harassment?

Here are three scenarios that would definitely be seen as sexual harassment by the court:

• Your supervisor asks you out on a date. You say no. They suggest that you won’t get your promotion unless you agree to go out with them.
• Somebody spreads a sexually suggestive rumor about someone else in the office. The rumor doesn’t need to be true.
• A coworker is constantly attempting to touch you, despite you being very clear that you don’t want to be touched.

Reach Out to a Sexual Harassment Lawyer Today

It’s vital that you understand the different forms that sexual harassment can take. Once you realize what category your situation falls under, it may be easier to fully understand your options and start building your case. We at Asbill Law Group can help you determine your next steps in building your case. Get in touch with a member of our team for a consultation.