Santa Barbara, known for its picturesque beaches, Mediterranean-style architecture, and thriving industries such as hospitality, education, and tourism, offers a unique workplace environment. However, despite its beauty, the workplace is not immune to issues like sexual harassment. Each day, millions of Californians go to work. On the surface, everything appears normal. However, Santa Barbara lawyers recognize that individuals may deal with things that cross the line at work. One such thing is sexual harassment.
Harassment based on someone's sex is illegal. If you’re being harassed or survived harassing behavior or actions, Melmed Law Group P.C. is ready to help. Since 2017, our team of Santa Barbara sexual harassment attorneys has served employees across the state of California. Whether you’re working in the hospitality industry on State Street, in education at UC Santa Barbara, or at one of the many local businesses in downtown Santa Barbara, experiencing sexual harassment can have a profound impact on your professional and personal life. Our Santa Barbara attorneys are here to support you.
What Is Sexual Harassment?
Sometimes, harassment is blatant. However, as Santa Barbara lawyers know, that isn’t always true. Harassers may use deceptive techniques. These methods often include gaslighting to manipulate those they target. Let Melmed Law’s Santa Barbara sexual harassment attorneys set the record straight about this matter.
Examples of sexual harassment:
- Inappropriate physical contact
- Requests for sexual favors
- Sexual advances
- Quid pro quo harassment
- Unwelcome gestures (winking, blowing kisses, etc.)
How to File a Harassment Lawsuit With the Help of an Attorney
Are you enduring harassing behavior? It’s time to take action. In California, sexual harassment survivors have as long as three years to file a valid claim.
Here’s what to do after sexual harassment occurs:
- Get yourself to safety.
- Find out your employer’s harassment policy.
- Per its requirements, notify your employer about your harassment.
- Complete and file a report with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD).
- Schedule a free consultation with a Santa Barbara sexual harassment attorney.
Confused about what comes next? Reach out to Santa Barbara attorneys at Melmed Law. Our Santa Barbara lawyers can guide you through every step of your claim and potential case, including assistance with filing EEOC complaints for sexual harassment in your workplace.
Protection Against Retaliation
In most cases, companies swiftly deal with harassers within their companies. But, as is often seen in the news, not every business sides with harassed employees. As shocking as it sounds, a company’s decision-makers may retaliate against those who speak out.
Example of retaliation:
- Wrongful termination
- Demotion
- Reduction in hours
- Raise or time-off denials
- Exposure to less favorable work
Much like sexual harassment, employer retaliation is also illegal. If you received harmful or otherwise unjust treatment after reporting a harasser, contact a Santa Barbara sexual harassment attorney at Melmed Law.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I file a sexual harassment case in Santa Barbara?
First, you should speak to a Santa Barbara lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines or make any mistakes in filing. Then, a lawyer can guide you through the process of filing a claim with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). After you receive a right-to-sue letter, you can discuss next steps with your Santa Barbara attorney.
How can a lawyer help me if HR doesn’t take my complaint seriously?
If your company’s HR department dismisses your harassment complaint, a Santa Barbara sexual harassment attorney can assist by escalating the issue. They can also file claims on your behalf with state agencies and pursue legal action to ensure your rights are upheld.
Can I still file a sexual harassment claim if I’ve already quit my job?
Yes, you can still file a claim even if you’ve quit your job. Many people leave their employment due to a hostile work environment, and a Santa Barbara lawyer can help you seek compensation for the harassment and any associated damages.
How much does a civil harassment lawyer cost?
Melmed Law is proud to serve our clients on a contingency basis, which means you only pay if our Santa Barbara sexual harassment attorneys win your case. Plus, our initial intake consultation is free of charge, ensuring a risk-free process for our clients. Schedule your free, 15-minute consultation now.
Who are the best workplace harassment lawyers near me in Santa Barbara?
While there are many workplace harassment lawyers in California, not all law firms are created equal. We recommend considering a personal harassment lawyer’s case results, reviews, and consultation policies to decide for yourself. Explore Melmed Law’s reviews here:
Why Choose Melmed Law as Your Santa Barbara Attorney?
When you’re dealing with matters as serious as sexual harassment, you need a proven law firm in your corner. That’s what you get with the Santa Barbara sexual harassment attorneys at Melmed Law. In the last ten years, our award-winning legal team has helped California employees recover over $250 million in awards.
Additionally, you’re not getting help from one or two people at Melmed Law. You gain a strong team of Santa Barbara lawyers with experience with individual and class action cases.
Are you, a loved one, or someone else you know who is a survivor of workplace harassment? Contact Melmed Law. Our skilled and experienced Santa Barbara attorneys represent California employees and hold harassers and the companies who stand behind them responsible. Our Santa Barbara sexual harassment attorneys will safeguard your rights. To schedule a free consultation, contact us today.