Sexual harassment occurs frequently throughout the workplace. In many cases, the perpetrator is often a person who uses a position of power to take advantage of a subordinate employee, but sexual harassment can occur between co-workers as well. Intimidation and dominating behavior is often an early warning sign, even if it isn't initially directed at a particular sexual target. If the person feels above the possible consequences, they won't try to control their behavior.
If you think you are feeling the first signs of sexual harassment or discrimination at work, you are probably right. Talk to an experienced attorney at The Armstrong Law Firm right away. We provide a free consultation and will give you an honest assessment of your legal case, as well as discuss the types of sexual harassment and advise you what to do about it and how to cope.
Contact us to arrange a meeting. From our offices in San Francisco, we represent employees in communities throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and California.
There are many forms of sexual harassment, including:
- Denied promotions or pay raises because of sex
- Inappropriate touching, starring or gestures
- Lewd behavior, language or dirty jokes
- Sexual content on walls, e-mails and computer screens
- Inappropriate physical proximity, contact and touching
When Are You Likely to Experience Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment usually occurs in the workplace, however sexual harassment may also occur after a supervisor, co-worker or customer drinks an excess of alcohol with employees. Employees attending company functions, official sales meetings or trade conventions where drinking occurs often complain about sexual harassment and unwelcome advances and expectations.
Is It Always Obvious?
Most employees know it when they feel it or see it, but some types of sexual harassment can be subtle and work its way through a company's corporate culture. Sometimes, some off-color comments may be used to test the waters, leading to more lewd jokes, language and behavior over time. If you are unsure, call The Armstrong Law Firm and our experienced attorneys can help you assess whether you have been sexually harassed.
Sexual Favoritism
It doesn't always feel like it to the person being favored, but sexual favoritism is an insidious form of sexual harassment as well. If you sense that you are being favored by your boss or supervisor because of your sex, they could be laying the foundation to sexually harass you. Often the harassment begins when the target of favoritism or affection experiences 'quid pro quo sexual harassment,' such as a request for sexual favors in exchange for an employment benefit.
If you've been sexually harassed in the recent past or are currently being harassed, you can stand up for your rights today. Contact The Armstrong Law Firm and we will explain your rights and possible courses of action. We are also experienced in negotiating favorable severance packages so that you have closure, can put the negative experience behind you and move forward with your life.
Top Ten Tips for Victims of Sexual Harassment
Here are some simple tips for dealing with sexual harassment as soon as you experience it in the workplace:
1. Contact The Armstrong Law Firm so that we can help Obtain a Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) Right to Sue Letter before it is too late. We don't recommend that you do this on your own.
2. The Armstrong Law Firm can help you write a letter or e-mail to a manager so your complaint of sexual harassment is in writing.
3. Make sure it is clear to your harasser that the offensive conduct is unwelcome.
4. Keep a journal of all incidents with the dates and details.
5. Do not engage in behavior, jokes, or interactions at work that could be used against you.
6. Do not drink alcohol with co-workers or managers.
7. Obtain a copy of all of your employer's sexual harassment policies, so that The Armstrong Law Firm can determine whether your employer has violated its own policies.
8. Make a list of all potential witnesses, they can also be anonymous witnesses.
9. If you are experiencing emotional distress communicate your symptoms to your doctor.
10. Make an appointment with a psychologist or therapist to begin documenting your emotional distress symptoms.
Learn more at our sexual harassment practice center
Contact The Armstrong Law Firm to discuss your situation with one of our lawyers as soon as possible.
