What should I do if I was sexually harassed at work?

If you experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, as a first step you can approach the harasser and ask them to stop the unwanted behavior. If the harassment persists or if you do not feel comfortable communicating with the individual, you should speak to your supervisor or a human resources representative in your company.

Find out if your employer has an internal process for reporting sexual harassment, including any specific rules and timeframes that you are required to follow. Bringing the sexual harassment to your employer’s attention as soon as possible is important so that they can start an investigation into your complaint.

Make sure you hold onto any evidence of the sexual harassment including emails or text messages. Keep notes about the specific instances of sexual harassment including times, dates, what happened and potential witnesses.

In some cases, resolving the matter through your employer may not be possible. For example, your supervisor or human resources representative may be the one doing the harassing. In such situations, you can pursue a claim with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. You can also discuss your situation with an experienced employment lawyer who can advise you of your rights and how to move forward with your sexual harassment claim.

Other Sexual Harassment FAQs:

• Can I file a sexual harassment claim against my employer if I was harassed outside of the workplace?
• Can I file a sexual harassment claim even if there were no witnesses?
• Can my employer fire me if I complain about sexual harassment?
• Can my employer retaliate against me for filing a sexual harassment claim?
• Can sexual harassment victims stay anonymous?
• Does online harassment count as sexual harassment?
• Does physical touching need to be involved for conduct to be considered sexual harassment?
• Does verbal harassment count as sexual harassment?
• How can a lawyer help me with my sexual harassment claim?
• How long do I have to file a sexual harassment claim?
• I was sexually harassed at work do I need an attorney?
• What evidence do you need to prove sexual harassment at work?
• What happens if you are laid off after being sexually harassed?
• What is sexual harassment at work?
• What is sexual harassment in the workplace?
• What should I do if I was sexually harassed at work?
• What should I do to protect my legal rights if I have been sexually harassed at work?
• What types of sexual harassment can occur in California workplaces?
• Who do I tell if I feel that I am being sexually harassed at work?
• Who is liable for sexual harassment in the workplace?