California employees have rights. One right is to not receive harassment based on their sex. From an inappropriate conversation to an unwelcome touch, harassing behavior comes in many forms. No matter why or how it happens, sexual harassment is not just wrong; it's illegal. Knowing this empowers you to take action. Contact Melmed Law today for a free consultation. We’re seasoned Modesto employment lawyers with a proven track record of holding guilty parties accountable. We proudly represent employees in Modesto and throughout Stanislaus County, providing you with the confidence and reassurance you need during this challenging time. Get started with sexual harassment lawyers in Modesto today.
Understanding Workplace-Based Sexual Harassment
Stanislaus County, California policy, has adopted the federal anti-discrimination laws set forth by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). However, these laws can be complex and challenging to navigate. Let us help you determine if you're dealing with a harasser. Instead of reading through these complicated documents, let us help determine if you’re dealing with a harasser.
Harassment examples include:
- Requests of a sexual nature
- Unwanted physical contact
- Unwarranted visual conduct
- Quid pro quo harassment (trading sex for favors)
- Unwelcome sexual advances
If someone is acting or doing things that make you uncomfortable, there’s a team of sexual harassment lawyers serving Modesto, California, who are ready to help. Harassing behaviors and actions can include comments, requests, gestures, or unwanted physical contact that turn a workplace into a hostile and intimidating working environment. Contact a Modesto employment lawyer.
Direct and Indirect Harassment
Thinking that only direct harassment exists is understandable. However, indirect harassment also exists. Direct harassment affects the person who’s the target of harassing behavior or actions. Sometimes, people openly or secretly witness others being harassed. Seeing or hearing sexually aggressive behavior typically makes people feel revolted. They may also feel like they’re now in a toxic workplace, another effect of indirect harassment.
Dealing With Retaliation
As sexual harassment lawyers for Modesto, CA, we understand that reporting harassment can feel nerve-wracking. You understandably hope the company you work for will be on your side. Sadly, that doesn’t always happen. Some companies or those leading them retaliate against harassment survivors. Retaliation is illegal. Yet, as any Modesto employment lawyer often hears about from clients, some people or companies will continue trying to get away with such deplorable behavior.
Examples of retaliation:
- Demotion
- Rejected time off requests
- Reduced hours
- Denied a deserved raise or bonus
- Relocated to a different department or location
- Exposure to less favorable work
Top-rated Attorneys for Workplace Harassment Lawsuits
It may be intimidating to seek help from sexual harassment lawyers in Modesto, CA, and you don’t want to trust just anyone to have your back against your employer. We recognize that this is a difficult time for you or anyone experiencing workplace harassment, and we welcome you to read our reviews to see how we’ve helped other victims of workplace harassment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the best sexual harassment lawyers in Modesto, CA?
To find the best Modesto harassment lawyers, you want to explore their case results, the size and quality of their legal team, any law articles published, and their reviews. At Melmed Law, we boast a strong roster of 14 lawyers experienced with both individual and class action cases. You get an entire team with this firm, not just one person.
How much do Modesto employment lawyers cost?
This depends on the law firm and attorney you enlist in your case. At Melmed Law, we take cases on contingency. In other words, you only pay if we successfully represent your case. We will fight for all of our clients – large or small.
How do I find sexual harassment lawyers in Modesto, CA?
If you’ve made it here, you’ve already found an expert team of attorneys that have litigated hundreds of class actions in California. Melmed Law has represented employees across a spectrum: CTOs, CEO, bus drivers, migrant farm workers, doctors, and more. Schedule a free consultation to get started.
Do I need to file a complaint with my employer before getting a Modesto employment lawyer?
As written in California law, employers have the responsibility to “take all reasonable steps necessary to prevent discrimination and harassment from occurring.” Because the employer should have put in place measures to prevent the harassment in the first place, sexual harassment lawyers in Modesto, CA do not need the employee(s) to file a complaint against their company prior to filing a lawsuit according to California sexual harassment laws.
How long do I have to file a harassment suit in Modesto, California?
There are two agencies with which you may file a charge in California:
- If you file a discrimination, harassment or retaliation charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), you have a 300-day filing deadline.
- With the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH), you have three years to file.
After receiving a right-to-sue letter from either agency, you only have one year to file a lawsuit in court.
Free Consultation With Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Modesto, CA
Are you currently enduring sexual harassment? Is it happening to someone you know? Contact Melmed Law. Our team of experienced Modesto employment lawyers is dedicated to helping victims seek justice. Within the last 10 years, we’ve recovered $250 million in case awards for people just like you. To schedule a free consultation, contact us today.