Lake Forest Sexual Harassment Lawyer

Lake Forest Sexual Harassment Attorney

If you are a victim of sexual harassment, it’s important to know that there’s something you can do about it. California has laws in place to protect employees from all forms of discrimination. They also provide avenues to allow victims to recover damages. A Lake Forest sexual harassment lawyer can help you explore your options and understand your rights.

The Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams has experience working with clients on complex cases, so we understand the process and the potential challenges that can arise when filing a sexual harassment claim. We’re committed to using our skills and past experiences to guide you through a seamless claim experience so you can move forward from this situation with your head held high.

What Is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination based on a person’s gender or sex. This includes aspects of these things, such as gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and more. Anyone can be a victim of sexual harassment, and the acts don’t have to be driven by sexual desire.

Behaviors that are considered sexual harassment in California include, but are not limited to:

• Displaying sexually suggestive objects or pictures
• Leering or rude gestures
• Making derogatory or graphic comments
• Physically touching or assaulting someone
• Unwanted advances

In California, employers are required to provide a safe workspace for employees. Otherwise, they can be held liable even if they weren’t the offender themselves. It’s critical that you understand all this and more, so you can hold the responsible party accountable and receive the compensation you’re owed.

No matter the nature of the incident you experience, it’s important that you understand what you can do about it. A Lake Forest sexual harassment lawyer at the Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams can help.

Sexual Harassment in California

As of early 2025, California’s unemployment rate is about 5.3 percent. Out of California’s labor force, approximately 18,533 people are employed and 1,020 are unemployed. It’s critical to have systems in place to keep employees safe and healthy in order to keep California’s economy strong.

Despite California employers being able to be held liable for sexual harassment and employers with at least five employees being required to provide sexual harassment training, these acts of discrimination still occur.

Data from the last 10 years shows that over 86 percent of women in California and 53 percent of men have experienced some form of sexual harassment or assault in their lifetime. This is compared to 81 percent of women and 43 percent of men nationally.

Most importantly, it’s crucial for the mental health and well-being of the people themselves. That’s why our attorneys at the Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams are dedicated to helping our clients out of these situations and securing them the maximum compensation possible. We want to help you move forward with your life with as little trouble as possible.

Filing a Sexual Harassment Claim in Lake Forest

If you wish to file a sexual harassment claim after going through your company’s internal system, you may do so with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Civil Rights Department (CRD).

You must file with the CRD within three years of the last known incident for your claim to be considered. The CRD complaint process has strict deadlines but protects your right to later sue if needed. Their team investigates the claim and determines what further action must be taken, if any. The CRD and EEOC cross-file with each other, so you don’t have to file with both.

This is a crucial step to take if you wish to pursue legal action down the road. The CRD issues a right to file a legal case after it has gone through its investigations.

FAQs About Lake Forest,CA Sexual Harassment Law

What Are the Two Basic Types of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace in California?

Sexual harassment in the workplace in California is classified as quid pro quo or hostile work environment. These two categories of workplace harassment have different legal standards for proving your claim. Quid pro quo means this for that and refers to when someone in a workplace requests sexual favors from a coworker or subordinate in exchange for some type of benefit. A hostile work environment deals with the wider impact of these actions. Acts of sexual harassment can affect the entire workplace. Workers who weren’t the direct victims can file this type of sexual harassment claim.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Sexual Harassment in California?

When you file a sexual harassment claim in California, you can file against the perpetrator themselves as well as your employer for failing to provide a safe workplace environment. California law requires employers to take immediate action when harassment is reported. Every employer is legally obligated to take reasonable steps to prevent harassment in the workplace. Otherwise, they can be held liable for any sexual harassment situations that occur on the premises.

What Is the Burden of Proof in a Sexual Harassment Case in Lake Forest?

The burden of proof in Lake Forest is on the plaintiff in a sexual harassment case. When you file a sexual harassment claim, you must use a preponderance of evidence to support your claim. This means that you must provide enough evidence to prove that it is more likely that the harassment occurred than that it did not.

Do I Have to Work With a Lake Forest Sexual Harassment Lawyer?

You are not required to work with a lawyer in Lake Forest when you file a sexual harassment claim. That said, a Lake Forest sexual harassment lawyer can be highly beneficial when it comes to navigating the legal process and winning your case. Your attorney can help with everything from answering your questions and providing legal advice to negotiating deals on your behalf and representing you in court.

Lake Forest Sexual Harassment Lawyer

If you want to file a sexual harassment claim in Lake Forest, you can count on our team at the Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams to help you through the process. We have a deep understanding of the state and federal laws that protect both employees and employers in sexual harassment cases.

That said, we know how to help you bolster your claim and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today if you want to set up an appointment with a Lake Forest sexual harassment lawyer.