Orange County Sexual Harassment Lawyer

Overview

• Why Choose MM Law?
• The Main Forms of Workplace Sexual Harassment in California
• Damages in an Orange County Workplace Sexual Harassment Case
• Why You Should Hire a Sexual Harassment Lawyer in Orange County
• FAQs
• Reach Out to a Compassionate Orange County Sexual Harassment Attorney Today

When you go to your Orange County workplace, you deserve to be treated with respect. Unfortunately, countless California employees experience unfair, sexually motivated harassment that affects both their job performance and mental health. If you’re facing sexual harassment in Orange County, do not wait to take legal action with help from a skilled Orange County sexual harassment lawyer. They can help you hold negligent employers accountable.

Why Choose MM Law?

At MM Law, APC, our team is dedicated to protecting the rights of California employees who face harassment at work. We know how difficult it can be to report sexual harassment and pursue legal action, which is why we offer compassionate guidance and personalized advice to help you navigate this challenging process.

Our lead attorney, Maralle Messrelian, graduated from Southwestern Law School in 2017 and has spent years defending victims’ rights across California. She is currently a member of the California Employment Lawyers Association and has the knowledge, resources, and experience needed to make a positive difference in your case.

The Main Forms of Workplace Sexual Harassment in California

Sexual harassment in a California workplace involves unfair treatment or misconduct that is sexually motivated or based on an employee’s sex. Anyone can experience sexual harassment, though women are often disproportionately affected. No matter what form of negative treatment you’re facing, if you believe it is due to your sex, you should hire a sexual harassment lawyer. They can explain the harassment you’re facing and what laws protect you.

There are two main forms of sexual harassment in California, which include:

1. Hostile Work Environments
   The first type of sexual harassment case is a hostile work environment. In 2024, the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) received 6,787 requests to file a claim due to sexual harassment causing a hostile work environment. This type of claim involves unwelcome conduct that is severe or pervasive enough to disrupt your ability to work comfortably or safely. Common examples include: 
   • Sexual jokes or comments
   • Unwanted touching
   • Sexual emails, texts, or images
   • Sex or gender-based insults
2. Quid Pro Quo Harassment
   The second type of sexual harassment seen in California is quid pro quo harassment. This type of case occurs when a supervisor, manager, or another person in authority requests sexual favors in exchange for employment benefits or to avoid adverse actions. This could look like:
   • A superior offers a raise or promotion in exchange for sexual favors.
   • Your boss threatens termination if you reject sexual advances.
   • You were demoted or disciplined for rejecting or reporting sexual advances or comments.

   Understanding what sexual harassment looks like in your Orange County workplace can help protect both you and your coworkers from unfair treatment.

Damages in an Orange County Workplace Sexual Harassment Case

If you have experienced sexual harassment in your Orange County workplace, filing a successful claim against your employer can help you hold them legally accountable while providing you with compensation for the damages you incurred. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be able to recover:

• Coverage of lost wages and benefits
• Compensation for emotional distress
• Coverage of past and future medical expenses, such as counseling costs
• Coverage of legal fees

In certain cases, punitive damages may also be awarded. These damages are included in your compensation to punish your employer for extreme or willful misconduct, rather than to make up for a specific loss you have suffered. For example, punitive damages may be available if the employer willfully ignored reports of sexual harassment or retaliated against you for reporting harassment.

Why You Should Hire a Sexual Harassment Lawyer in Orange County

Sexual harassment cases can be difficult for Orange County employees to navigate alone due to complex legal procedures and the emotional difficulty of filing a claim against your employer. An Orange County sexual harassment lawyer from MM Law can make this process easier by explaining the legal requirements and protocols that must be followed, along with helping you better understand your rights under California law.

Furthermore, our team can work with you to build a powerful claim, assist you in filing that claim and meeting strict deadlines, and advocate for you during negotiations and in the courtroom.

FAQs

Is It Difficult to Win a Workplace Sexual Harassment Case in Orange County?

Most workplace harassment claims are challenging to be successful with in California due to the complexity of the claims involved and the strict protections both employers and employees hold. Because most California employers have strong legal teams who are prepared to fight employee claims, it’s crucial that you work with an employment lawyer who can help you build the strongest claim possible and secure justice.

What Should You Do If You Are Sexually Harassed at Work in Orange County?

If you experience sexual harassment at work in Orange County, make sure to document the incident. Write down what happened, when, where, and with whom. Save any relevant evidence, such as emails or photographs. Then, report the harassment to human resources or to a supervisor. If internal reports fail to address the misconduct, or you feel unsafe reporting harassment, contact an Orange County sexual harassment attorney for help filing a claim.

What Evidence Is Needed to Prove Workplace Sexual Harassment in California?

To prove workplace sexual harassment occurred in California, you must have sufficient evidence to prove that you suffered an adverse action due to your sex or gender, which your employer either caused or failed to properly address. Helpful evidence often includes emails, text messages, witness statements, photographs or videos, performance reviews, notes documenting the incidents of harassment, and written complaints to human resources.

Is It Worth Filing a Claim for Workplace Sexual Harassment in California?

Yes, it is often worth it to file a workplace sexual harassment claim because it can help you recover compensation for your losses while also holding employers accountable for their misconduct. Many people receive compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, medical or counseling costs, or reputational damage. Filing a claim can also ignite changes in the workplace, such as requiring further training or changes in discriminatory company policies.

Reach Out to a Compassionate Orange County Sexual Harassment Attorney Today

If you believe you have experienced workplace sexual harassment in Orange County, the team at MM Law is ready to help you hold your employer accountable. Contact us today to speak with an experienced lawyer about how to pursue legal action in a sexual harassment case.