Do you understand the options when filing a sexual harassment complaint in California?

Being a victim of sexual harassment or discrimination in the workplace can be upsetting for anyone. This makes it extremely difficult for victims of this vice to know how what to do or how to proceed following a sexual harassment incident. Fortunately, filing a sexual harassment complaint in California does not have to be a daunting task.

Here is a three-step guide to filing a sexual harassment complaint in California

1. Let your employer know about the harassment incident

It is crucial to establish whether or not your organization has a policy on sexual harassment. If they do, consider reading it in order to follow the laid down procedure when filing your complaint. Remember, your decision or ability to pursue other legal options may be severely impacted if you fail to notify your employer of the sexual harassment incident. Also, it is important to understand that your employer cannot retaliate against you because you have filed a complaint against them.

2. File your sexual harassment complaint with the relevant agency

California residents can file their sexual harassment complaints with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). Any complaint submitted to the DFEH is automatically cross-filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Therefore, you do not have to file two separate complaints. Upon submitting your complaint, the DFEH will review it to determine if they should investigate the incident on your behalf.

3. File a civil suit against your employer

If the DFEH is convinced that your complaint is legitimate, they will issue you with a right-to-sue letter. With this letter, you can formally sue your employer for sexual harassment in a California court.

Sexual harassment in the workplace can affect your self-esteem and productivity. If you have experienced any type of sexual harassment in your workplace, it will be in your best interest to talk to an experienced sexual harassment lawyer as soon as you can. Build a strong case and bring to an end any unlawful conduct that you are experiencing in your workplace.