$500,000 Paid in Sexual Harassment Cases Involving California Judges and Lawmakers

If there is one occupation you may think is less likely to become embroiled in sexual harassment and related behaviors, it is judges. These pillars of society, and representatives of the law, must surely know how to conduct themselves, and how to make sure their employees feel safe at work… or so you may think. In reality, recent reports demonstrate that is far from being the truth. Over the past seven years, the state of California has paid over $500,000 to settle lawsuits relating to sexual harassment complaints against judges and staff, according to the Judicial Council. This figure was made up of $296,000 to resolve three sexual harassment complaints relating to judges, $225,000 to settle similar claims against court staff, and an additional $79,750 has been paid out since 2010 on private investigators looking into claims made against another five judges.

While no details of the cases, or the accused judges and court staff, have been released, this news comes hot on the tail of the disclosure of 18 cases of sexual harassment complaints against lawmakers and staff, released by the California Legislature in February. The Judicial Council’s spokesperson has stated that even this relatively low number of cases is unacceptable, and measures are being implemented to prevent future occurrences.

What Counts As Sexual Harassment In Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, and around California, sexual harassment can take many forms, generally falling into one of two categories – hostile work environment or quid pro quo. Whatever the details of your case, an experienced Los Angeles sexual harassment attorney from Rager & Yoon – Employment Lawyers could work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome on your behalf.

If you are not sure whether behavior counts as sexual harassment, but you are uncomfortable at work because of it, you should report it to your employer, or their HR department immediately. You deserve to be able to do your job without feeling uncomfortable, threatened, or intimidated. If you prefer some concrete examples of sexual harassment in the workplace, here are some of the claims we have successfully handled over the years:

• Unwelcome sexual comments or remarks from a co-worker, manager, or employer
• Emails containing sexually explicit messages or pornographic content
• Being touched or contacted by a co-worker despite informing them you were not interested
• A co-worker, or another employee, requesting details of your sexual life
• A manager or employer requesting sexual favors in exchange for a promotion, bonus, or pay increase
• A manager, or anyone in authority, asking to meet you outside of work
• Threatening, intimidating, or retaliatory behavior when you report sexual harassment

This list is by no means exhaustive and, as a rule, if behavior makes you feel uncomfortable, it is not acceptable.

Seek Legal Representation From A Los Angeles Sexual Harassment Attorney Today

If you have experienced any of these behaviors at work, it is important to take action. A Los Angeles sexual harassment attorney from Rager & Yoon – Employment Lawyers has the knowledge and expertise needed to handle your case successfully. To discuss your case with an expert sexual harassment attorney, call us today on 310-527-6994 for a free initial consultation.