It is your employer's responsibility to take practical steps to prevent sexual harassment. Whether sexual harassment has already occurred, or an employer does not follow prevention laws, they can be held accountable for their violations.

When Sexual Harassment Occurs

When harassment does occur, the company is required to take immediate action to stop it. Upon receiving a complaint, your supervisor should conduct a thorough investigation and take appropriate action to correct the problem. This could include disciplinary tactics or termination of the harassing employee.

Required Prevention

California Law requires all employers to post the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) poster and to distribute literature that explains the definitions of sexual harassment, the company's complaint process, and how to contact DFEH to report a complaint. Businesses with over 50 full, part-time or temporary employees are required to provide sexual harassment training. Managers and supervisors must receive two hours of training every two years. In addition to covering the definitions and laws, this training includes prevention strategies and remedies to correcting sexual harassment.

If you believe you are being sexually harassed at work, do not be afraid to report the incident.  California law protects you against sexual harassment and from employer retaliation.  You are also protected as a witness to another employee's harassment case.

Please contact Kingsley and Kingsley if you have any questions about your employer's responsibilities to protect you against sexual harassment. Our sexual harassment lawyers are here to help you understand your rights. Please feel free to call Eric Kingsley toll-free at (818) 990-8300. Additional contact information can be found here.