It is a problem that often goes overlooked in many offices throughout Los Angeles. When most people think of sexual harassment, they usually think of a chauvinistic male boss making lewd and lascivious comments toward female employees or making inappropriate physical contact. But it does not just happen to women. Many male workers also deal with these same issues on a daily basis. Unfortunately, far too many workers are either afraid to report their bosses or their co-worker often look away. But when sexual harassment is allowed to persist, it becomes everyone’s problem.
A Vicious Cycle
Although not all cases of sexual harassment in Los Angeles are the same. There are some common traits. In many instances, the perpetrator has committed these acts several times in the past. If they are not punished, chances are they will continue their behavior. Ask any Los Angeles employment attorney and they have heard all the horror stories. Among the most vulnerable women are single mothers, inexperienced workers and those who depend on their paycheck to make ends meet. Chronic offenders of sexual harassment tend to seek female employees who are timid or have submissive traits.
The Fear of Retaliation
Most cases of sexual harassment never go reported. Many women are forced to endure this humiliating experience. The number one reason is the fear of retaliation. But the retaliation does not just come from their employers, it can also come from their peers. Accusing a boss of sexual harassment often brings drama into the office environment filled with gossip. In addition to affecting harassment victims in the workplace, many believe it can damage their reputation and hurt their chances of landing a new job.
Fighting Back
Victims of sexual harassment often feel powerless. But there are some important steps a person can take to fight back. Because harassment cases often get emotional, it is important to take an analytical view. Here are some effective strategies when dealing with harassing employers.
- Review your company policy: Virtually every company has an employee manual which provides specific guidelines on what is acceptable and unacceptable at the workplace.
- Contact the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission: When it comes to sexual harassment cases, time is of the essence. It is important to take swift and aggressive action. Harassment victims have 45 days from the event to seek advice from an EEOC counselor.
- Seek Legal Representation from a Los Angeles Employment Attorney: Most victims of sexual harassment do not properly understand their rights. Even if a person is not planning to file a lawsuit, it is important for the victim to properly understand how the law can help. An experienced and knowledgeable employment attorney can also provide sound advice on how to handle and resolve each individual situation.
Contact Los Angeles Employment Attorney Jeffrey Rager for a Free Initial Consultation
Far too many women and men suffer in silence due to constant sexual harassment from their employers. It is important to understand these types of actions are completely unacceptable. The first important step is to seek representation from a Los Angeles sexual harassment attorney with a track record of protecting the rights of victims and placing them in the best position to succeed. Attorney Jeffrey Rager is committed to helping victims of sexual harassment recover the compensation they deserve in order to move on with their lives. To learn more, contact his Los Angeles employment law office today to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your case.