Santa Clarita Workplace Sexual Assault Lawyer

Santa Clarita Workplace Sexual Assault Attorney

People should never experience sexual assault in their workplace. If you have experienced this, you are not alone. A Santa Clarita workplace sexual assault lawyer will not only explain your rights under California law, but can also file a claim against your employer or the offending individual who is responsible. We are dedicated to obtaining justice, accountability, and the financial restitution that you are entitled to.

About Us

At Sexual Harassment Law Firm CA, we are proud to be the voice for sexual harassment and assault victims in Santa Clarita and Los Angeles County. We offer victims empathetic legal representation as well as effective and aggressive advocacy in court to obtain justice for them.

Victims of sexual harassment and assault can be deeply wounded from their experience, and we provide the discretion, attention, and professionalism you deserve in this process. We listen to your case from the very beginning, inform you about your rights, and work with you to develop an approach appropriately suited to your case. We strive to preserve your rights and dignity and hold the right people accountable.

The Santa Clarita Courthouse in the North Valley District of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, which hears civil cases, including workplace sexual assault cases, for Santa Clarita residents, is where we frequently represent clients.

Understanding Workplace Sexual Assault Laws in California

California’s laws on workplace sexual assault cover any unwanted sexual contact or attempted coercion. Sexual assault is illegal as both a civil rights and a criminal matter under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and California Penal Code, respectively.

Sexual assault in the workplace includes any physical or sexual act committed against another without consent. Touching, groping, coercion, or other forced sexual acts are all included in this definition. A sexual assault that happens away from your place of work may still be defined as workplace if it is in some way related to your employment. For example, an assault at a work party or work trip is covered.

California’s employers have an affirmative duty to provide a harassment-free workplace. If they do not, they may be civilly liable for failure to prevent or for enabling the assault by ignoring warnings or otherwise keeping a predator in the workplace.

Types of Sexual Assault

In California, there are a few different types of sexual assault. While these offenses can occur in any location, they can often take place in the workplace. In some cases, victims of these crimes are afraid to come forward because of potential retaliation. A Santa Clarita workplace sexual assault attorney can assist you with your case and explain how these laws can apply to your circumstances. Some common types of sexual assault include:

• Rape. This includes the forced sexual intercourse with another person, typically through force, threats, or with a person who is unable to consent, such as one who is unconscious.
• Statutory rape. This includes sexual intercourse with someone who is a minor. Even if the minor agrees to the act, the law does not recognize a minor’s consent, as they are deemed to be legally unable to do so.
• Oral copulation. This happens when the mouth of one person touches the genitalia or anus of another. If the victim is a minor or incapable of giving consent, or if force or threats are used, it is a felony.

These crimes can occur between employees, employers, or even third parties like vendors. It doesn’t matter who the assailant is, as sexual assault is never okay, and victims have civil and criminal rights.

The California Civil Rights Department reported 9,155 right-to-sue complaints in 2023. Hostile work environment right-to-sue complaints totaled 6,297, and quid pro quo complaints totaled 2,858.

Hire a Workplace Sexual Assault Lawyer

Deciding to hire a workplace sexual assault lawyer can be a turning point for your case. These situations can be complicated and sensitive, leaving victims without clear legal options. The process can also be difficult emotionally, as it typically involves trauma, sensitive evidence, and facing powerful employers and/or coworkers.

A qualified attorney can support you through every stage of the process, from the initial investigation and evidence preservation to filing a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department and/or civil and criminal claims. An experienced lawyer is your advocate, who can negotiate with your employer on your behalf, protect you from any retaliation, and work to get you the compensation and justice you are entitled to.

FAQs

What Do I Do When an Employee Is Accused of Sexual Assault?

If an employee is accused of sexual assault, the employer should take immediate steps to investigate the allegation and keep the matter confidential. The employer should also follow any company policies that may be in place and provide support to the accuser. Employers should also consult with legal counsel to ensure that they are in compliance with state laws and to protect against any potential civil or criminal liability.

Are Employers Liable for Sexual Assault?

Yes, employers can be held liable if they did not take action when they were aware of complaints or permitted a hostile work environment, or if they retaliated against a victim of sexual assault. In California, employers are required by law to provide safe workplaces, and may be subject to both penalties for workplace sexual assault, as well as civil damages if they were negligent or failed to take action.

What Is the Difference Between Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault at Work?

Sexual harassment typically refers to non-physical or visual acts, such as verbal behavior that is unwelcome and offensive to the victim, and that creates a hostile work environment. Sexual assault generally refers to physical acts or situations with force or threat of force when the victim was not consenting. The two are illegal in California, but a sexual assault victim will typically face more serious criminal charges.

Contact Sexual Harassment Law Firm CA Today

If you or a loved one suffered sexual assault in the workplace, you do not have to handle the aftermath alone. Sexual Harassment Law Firm CA can help you hold the responsible party accountable. Contact us today to begin seeking justice.