Harassment affects people from all walks of life. One study found that 81% of women and 43% of men have survived harassment of a sexual nature at work. Harassing behavior and actions can happen to anyone, regardless of their industry or job title.
At Melmed Law, we are a team of experienced sexual harassment lawyers near me in Monterrey, CA. We specialize in representing harassed workers and standing up to their harassers. Our expertise in handling cases of employer retaliation further ensures that you are in capable hands.
Proudly Advocating for the Harassed
When you choose Melmed Law Group, you don’t just get a sexual harassment lawyer near you in Monterey, CA. You get an entire team dedicated to your case, providing comprehensive support and legal representation.
Am I Being Harassed?
Some instances of harassment are blatant. Disturbingly, as our Monterey, CA, lawyers often hear about, harassers use many techniques. They may use gaslighting and other methods to warp the mind of the person being harassed.
According to Monterey County’s Sexual Harassment Prevention Policy, the following behaviors and actions constitute sexual harassment:
- Sexual advances
- Requests for sexual favors
- Unwelcome physical contact
- Quid pro quo harassment (trading sex of any kind for job or personal-related perks or gifts)
- Sexually related verbal and visual conduct
What Should I Do After Sexual Harassment Occurs?
Sexual harassment causes many feelings. You may observe bouts of depression, anger, confusion, anxiety, and other unwanted emotions. As difficult as things can feel, following the steps below can help keep you grounded during such a hard time.
1. Focus on Your Safety
As sexual harassment lawyers near you in Monterey, CA, we sometimes see what clients think is seemingly innocent behavior soon spiral into invasive and potentially violent actions from a harasser. That’s why, no matter how non-threatening a harasser seems, you should permanently remove yourself from this situation as safely and quickly as possible.
2. Seek Support
While it’s not a must, some people feel better talking about their trauma to friends, family, or certified professionals, such as a therapist. Free resources also exist, such as 800-656-HOPE, which is a free nationwide hotline for people experiencing sexual abuse (including sexual harassment).
It’s perfectly acceptable if you’re not ready to speak to someone else about the harassment you’re dealing with. Our Monterey lawyers only want you to share what you’re comfortable sharing.
3. Gather Your Evidence
As uncomfortable as it may feel, it’s best to gather evidence and document the details of your harassment soon after it happens. That’s because you’re more likely to remember and note details that could be vital in proving the other party’s guilt. Additionally, a sexual harassment lawyer near you in Monterey, CA, can use this information to begin building your case.
4. Report What Happened
Report harassment to your employer. This person could be a human resources worker, a manager, or someone in a similar role. Besides potentially holding those responsible accountable, an official report on file with your employer can be vital to your claim.
5. Contact a Lawyer in Monterey, CA
Sexual harassment is emotional. It’s also traumatic. Processing and moving forward from harassment can take time and effort. Trying to fight with an employer legally is often too much for anyone to handle.
Finding a sexual harassment lawyer near me in Monterey, CA, lets a professional step in to represent you against an employer and harasser.
Get a Free 15-minute Consultation
Did you or someone you know survive sexual harassment at work? Melmed Law Group wants to hear from you. We have recovered $125 million for our clients across California. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.