Can I file a sexual harassment claim even if there were no witnesses?

Yes, it may be possible to prove sexual harassment even if nobody saw it occur. Many incidents of sexual harassment take place behind closed doors. For example, the harassment may occur as a form of quid pro quo in which an employee is asked for a sexual favor in exchange for a promotion. In such situations, there are likely to be no other witnesses.
 
While having a witness can strengthen a claim, other forms of evidence can build a credible case. A successful sexual harassment claim depends on whether the proper steps were followed.
 
If you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, be sure to document everything. Keep a journal detailing what happened, including who was present, the time, location and what exactly took place. Hold on to all records, including written complaints you file with your employer.
 
Find out about your company’s procedure for filing a complaint and follow those steps. You may be required to report the sexual harassment to your human resources department or your supervisor. Your employer should then investigate your claim. Remember, California law provides employees with protection from retaliation for coming forward with a claim about workplace sexual harassment.
 
Following your company’s policies and processes will ensure your employer was notified about the sexual harassment and had the opportunity to resolve the issue. It will also show that you took the initiative to do everything you could as soon as the harassment occurred.
 
You may have grounds for a successful sexual harassment claim even without witnesses. Employees can and do win such cases in California. Contact the knowledgeable sexual harassment lawyers at Erlich Law Firm to learn more.

Other Sexual Harassment FAQs:

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My parents were heavily involved in community organizing. Seeing neighbors and friends’ parents struggle in the workplace gave me a sense of purpose that I wanted to help others. Many employees feel helpless and powerless in the workplace, and helping them vindicate their rights is the right thing to do.

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When employees' legal rights are violated, we take time to explain their legal options, listen to their goals, and aggressively argue their case until we achieve the resolution they deserve.

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