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Walnut Creek Sexual Harassment Attorney

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Sexual harassment in the workplace is a violation of your civil rights and a form of gender discrimination under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). Despite increased awareness through social movements like #MeToo, harassment remains a common issue in California workplaces. When you go to work, you deserve an environment free from hostility, unwanted advances and intimidation. If you face this conduct, it impacts your career, your financial stability and your emotional well-being. The Walnut Creek sexual harassment attorney at the Law Offices of Jeannette A. Vaccaro PC helps workers explore options after enduring sexual harassment.

Understanding Workplace Harassment

Workplace sexual harassment generally manifests in two primary categories. Quid pro quo, Latin for “this for that,” occurs when a supervisor offers employment benefits in exchange for sexual favors or threatens consequences for refusal. A hostile work environment exists when pervasive conduct creates an offensive or intimidating atmosphere that hampers your ability to perform your job. It is important to note that the offender does not need to be a direct supervisor; they can be a coworker, a client or even a customer. Furthermore, the victim does not have to be the direct target of the harassment but can be anyone affected by the offensive conduct.

Recognizing Prohibited Conduct

Harassment is not always overt or physical. Often, it involves subtle behaviors that accumulate over time to create an unbearable situation. Employees at all levels need a clear understanding of what constitutes prohibited conduct. Examples of sexual harassment include:

  • Unwelcome sexual advances or solicitations for sexual favors
  • Inappropriate communications such as letters, emails, texts or notes
  • Visual conduct, including the sharing of explicit photos or videos
  • Gender-based remarks that may not be sexual in nature but are derogatory
  • Unwanted touching or physical contact that causes discomfort
  • Retaliation for ending or refusing a romantic or sexual relationship
  • Off-color jokes, offensive nicknames or lewd gestures

Identifying Less Obvious Harassment

While some forms of harassment are unmistakable, others are insidious and harder to identify. You might question whether specific behaviors actually cross the legal line. It is critical to recognize that conduct based on gender that interferes with work performance creates a hostile environment and is actionable under the law. Less obvious examples of sexual harassment often include:

  • Workplace policies that disproportionately affect individuals based on gender
  • Assignment of projects or duties based on gender stereotypes
  • Sexual banter disguised as workplace camaraderie
  • Requirements to maintain a gender-conforming appearance
  • Persistent hugs or invasion of personal space

Why Hire an Attorney?

Navigating a sexual harassment claim requires a deep understanding of state and federal employment laws. Working with the Law Offices of Jeannette A. Vaccaro PC provides you with a dedicated advocate who understands the complexities of these cases. A skilled attorney will help you gather necessary evidence, interview witnesses and build a compelling case to prove liability.

Contact Our Walnut Creek Sexual Harassment Attorney for a Confidential Review

At the Law Offices of Jeannette A. Vaccaro PC, we are committed to protecting workers’ rights. If you believe you are the victim of workplace harassment, do not navigate this difficult time alone. Contact us today to schedule a confidential case review with our Walnut Creek sexual harassment attorney.

Think You May
Have A Case?

Jeannette is passionate about employee rights. She fights to shed light on injustices and to help her clients move beyond troubling times. Contact Jeannette today for a free case evaluation.

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Jeannette A. Vaccaro is a Passionate and zealous advocate, representing employees in all facets of employment law.

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Think You May Have A Case?

Jeannette is passionate about employee rights. She fights to shed light on injustices and to help her clients move beyond troubling times. Contact Jeannette today for a free case evaluation.

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