Sadly, many workers face situations where supervisors, coworkers, or even clients behave inappropriately toward them. This can make workers feel unsafe or pressured. Sometimes such behavior starts with small things, such as comments or jokes, and then grows into something more serious if no one addresses it.
Thankfully, the law provides protections for workers who receive unwanted advances. If you are dealing with this type of mistreatment, reach out to a Mar Vista unwanted advances lawyer as soon as possible. Even if you are unsure whether what you are experiencing counts as harassment, it is better to ask a workplace harassment attorney than to stay silent. At Employee Civil Rights Group, we are committed to providing excellent service and aggressive representation for each of our clients.
Unwanted advances include any form of sexual conduct or attention that the recipient does not want. An individual may make these advances verbally, physically, or nonverbally. In other words, if someone’s behavior makes you uncomfortable, and you did not ask for it, that is enough for it to be considered unwanted.
Examples include:
These actions can create a hostile work environment and make it difficult or impossible to do your job. State law prohibits this type of harassment and protects employees who speak out against it. If you have experienced behavior you think might constitute unwanted advances, you should call a Mar Vista attorney to talk about your experience.
Legally, unwanted advances are a form of sexual harassment. California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act provides that sexual harassment is unlawful in the workplace.
Unwanted advances may take the form of quid pro quo harassment. This is when a supervisor offers job-related benefits such as promotions, raises, or job security in exchange for sexual favors and cooperation. Unwanted advances can also appear in the form of a hostile work environment where they make your workplace intimidating, offensive, or abusive. Both forms can seriously affect your career and your mental health, which is why you should not try to ignore them. A Mar Vista lawyer who is experienced in handling unwanted advances cases could help you understand your options in dealing with these situations.
When you face harassment, knowing what to do can be beneficial. Many workers feel nervous about speaking up, worried they might lose their job or be treated differently, but if you are in such a position, there are actions that can protect you. An attorney with experience pursuing unwanted advances cases in Mar Vista could guide you through the following steps to protect your rights:
Keeping records is critical, even if the harassment seems minor at first. Many cases involve repeated behavior over time. A clear timeline makes it easier to connect the incidents and show a pattern of harassment.
Speaking with an unwanted advances lawyer in Mar Vista is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself. As well as reviewing your situation to confirm whether the conduct qualifies as unlawful harassment and advising you on the steps above, they could file a complaint on your behalf with the California Civil Rights Department or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. They could also represent you in negotiations or litigation if necessary.
Unwanted advances in the workplace affect everyone and can cause stress, anxiety, and career setbacks for those receiving them. Some people even leave jobs they once enjoyed because the environment becomes unbearable. For executives and business leaders, ignoring harassment can lead to lawsuits, damaged reputation, and the loss of valuable staff.
A Mar Vista unwanted advances lawyer helps individuals assert their rights while also sending a message that harassment will not be tolerated. We could explain your rights, protect you from retaliation, and pursue justice on your behalf. Call today to find out more.
