Santa Barbara Sexual Harassment Attorneys
When employees are faced with conduct that may cross the line into constituting sexual harassment, they should not have to ponder whether the conduct in question is illegal, regardless of whether the conduct is subtle or overt.
At Anticouni & Ricotta, we recognize how deeply wounding sexual harassment can be for both your career and your overall well-being. As a female-led law firm in Santa Barbara with over five decades of experience, we bring a unique perspective and deep empathy to these sensitive cases. We are attorneys who provide compassionate support while vigorously defending your rights in the workplace.
What You Need To Know About Sexual Harassment
Dirty jokes, unwanted advances and sexual-laced comments in the workplace are unlawful sexual harassment. If you have these at work, you know how intimidating it can be and what a detrimental effect it can have on your productivity and well-being. In general, sexual harassment takes two forms:
Hostile work environment
This type of sexual harassment can happen when someone is exposed to offensive or inappropriate behavior in the workplace. It may include derogatory words, sexual jokes or comments, unwanted touching and inappropriate pictures or messages. Over time, this conduct can create a work environment that feels intimidating and uncomfortable, making it difficult to do your job.
Quid pro quo sexual harassment
This type of harassment occurs when someone who is in a position of authority makes favorable job advancements, such as promotions and raises, contingent upon an employee agreeing to sexual activity. It can also occur if the employee’s refusal of sexual advances in the workplace results in unfavorable consequences, such as a demotion or termination.
Here at Anticouni & Ricotta, our dedicated lawyers understand the nuances of both types of sexual harassment. We are adept at identifying subtle forms of harassment that others might overlook. When you hire our firm for your case, you will have a dependable legal ally who will help you navigate the complex terrain of sexual harassment claims in California, every step of the way.
Commonly Asked Questions About Sexual Harassment
Being a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace can be a scary and overwhelming experience, and it may leave you feeling isolated or unsure of what to do next. To help you prepare for the next steps forward, our Santa Barbara attorneys carefully address four of the most common questions about sexual harassment in California.
Can my employer retaliate against me for filing a sexual harassment claim?
No, they cannot. Retaliation for filing a sexual harassment claim is illegal. California law protects employees who report harassment, discrimination or unsafe conduct in good faith. If you believe retaliation has happened, document what changed, save emails or messages, and consider speaking with a lawyer or the California Civil Rights Department.
The promotion was denied to me, and I’ve since learned that my supervisor’s boyfriend received it. Is this sexual harassment?
While your supervisor’s decision to give the promotion to someone they had a personal relationship with can be unfair, it is often not illegal by itself. However, you might be facing a workplace discrimination issue if your sex or gender caused the denial of a promotion.
It may be worth reviewing your company’s policies or discussing your specific situation with human resources.
What are my rights after reporting sexual harassment?
After reporting sexual harassment, you have the right to be free from retaliation, to have your complaint investigated promptly and thoroughly, and to receive appropriate remedial action if harassment is found to have occurred.
What evidence do I need to prove workplace sexual harassment in California?
Evidence can include emails, text messages, witness statements and documentation of the harassment and its effects on you. We can guide you in gathering and preserving crucial evidence to support your claim.
Contact Us Today For A Free Consultation About Your Sexual Harassment Case
If you are facing sexual harassment at your job, we are here to help and support you. Reach out to our Santa Barbara office today at 805-699-5968 to schedule your free initial consultation with one of our lawyers or send us a confidential email through our contact form. We serve clients across California and offer Spanish-speaking services.