How To Handle A Hostile Work Environment?

The workplace can be like the weather, very unpredictable. Problems with discrimination and harassment can arise at any moment. Sometimes coworkers or employers can look down on certain employees because they are simply not like the rest. This hostile working conditions can be very frustrating and emotionally draining. In some cases, your pockets can also be emptied since you may not be offered the same opportunities other employees have. It’s important you find out if you have a case with a hostile work environment attorney in Los Angeles. The harassment is only illegal when based on a protected characteristic.

What Constitutes A Hostile Work Environment

Although many scenarios can constitute a hostile work environment, some specific examples are considered illegal under California law:

• Making jokes regarding race or gender.
• Talking about sexual activities.
• Inappropriate touching.
• Interrupting someone’s work.
• Vulgar gestures.
• Using nicknames or degrading terms.

Although these are the most common examples, there may be others that are not so obvious. This is why contacting a hostile work environment attorney in Los Angeles can be the best thing you can do for yourself. This environment can get worse when the unwelcomed behavior continues because the employer didn’t do anything about it. If nothing has been done to correct the issue, the employer will be responsible for such inappropriate behavior and any charges related to this conduct. Even when the supervisor engages in such conduct, the employer is still responsible to compensate the victim for losses.

Filing Your Claim

Every hostile environment is different therefore your claim will also be handled differently. It’s very difficult to apply the employment law unless you have an attorney with you explaining your options. You need to investigate the facts and gather sufficient evidence. Also, you must consider whether the employer did anything to correct the situation or not. If the environment is pervasive or severe, chances are you have a good hostile work environment claim. Employers are responsible to take the necessary steps to cease the hostile work environment, and they are liable for the victimized employee if the problem was not corrected through HR.

Ask An Attorney

Victims sometimes fear to speak out because they are afraid of losing their jobs. This is why asking an attorney is a crucial step before you file your claim as your decisions will be more tactful. Whether the complaint comes from you or your co-workers, you need to speak out. But you have to first report the incident to HR so you have proved your claim. In California, employers are required to have both harassment and discrimination laws. Your attorney can take a look at those and study whether they have been violated or not.

Nobody should be exposed to a hostile work environment. If you are experiencing these conditions at work, make sure you call Rager & Yoon – Employment Lawyers and schedule your free case evaluation. We have dealt with many cases like yours in Los Angeles and surrounding regions and know what it takes to win.