Temecula Workplace Discrimination/Sexual Harassment DFEH/EEOC Lawyer
Federal and state employment laws prohibit employers from treating employees differently based on protected characteristics, but statistics indicate that some companies have far to go in terms of compliance. According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), employees file almost 67,500 charges every year alleging various forms of workplace discrimination. In California, many workers allege misconduct related to race, national origin, age, and other traits. Plus, more than 30 percent of all charges filed in the state are based upon sexual harassment, a form of workplace discrimination.
Fortunately, you do have legal remedies if you were subjected to unlawful mistreatment at work. Our team at Sloat Law Group can explain your options, including a claim for monetary damages and equitable relief. Please contact our firm to set up a consultation with a Temecula workplace discrimination & sexual harassment lawyer. Some background information may also help you understand the key concepts.
Summary of California Employment Discrimination Laws
The two central statutes that protect employees in the workplace are Title VII to the US Civil Rights Act and the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), though there are additional laws at the federal and state level. Combined, these provisions prohibit:
Workplace Discrimination
Employers are prohibited from treating a worker differently or taking adverse action against employees who possess protected characteristics as defined by law. Examples include race, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, and religion.
Sexual Harassment
While it falls under the umbrella of discrimination, sexual harassment is a distinct form of workplace misconduct. An employee may have a claim based upon the two scenarios:
- Harassment may be actionable when it is so pervasive and outrageous that it creates a hostile work environment. Misconduct may involve sexually offensive comments, emails, pictures, gestures, or other communications.
- You may face a situation of quid pro quo sexual harassment if another worker requests sexual favors in exchange for preferential treatment – or as a threat to avoid adverse action.
How an Attorney Can Assist with Discrimination and Harassment Claims
Sloat Law Group will support your legal needs throughout the legal process, which starts by filing a charge with EEOC or California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). This step is necessary due to the requirement of exhausting your administrative remedies. Some claims are resolved via settlement at this stage. However, if you are not satisfied with the results, the next step is failing a lawsuit in court.
Our Temecula workplace discrimination and sexual harassment lawyers will seek all available damages, including back and forward pay, emotional distress, and equitable relief.
Consult with a Temecula Workplace Discrimination and Sexual Harassment Attorney Today
For more information on your rights after being subjected to misconduct at work, please contact Sloat Law Group. Individuals in Riverside, Orange, and Los Angeles Counties can call 760-779-1313 or visit our website. After reviewing your situation, our employment lawyers can advise you on what to expect with a workplace discrimination or sexual harassment claim.
