Sexual Harassment Attorney in Pasadena

Seek Justice With Experienced Employment Law Attorneys

Under California law, sexual harassment in the workplace is illegal. However, sexually harassing conduct can sometimes be subtle and difficult to identify. This conduct can take many forms and may not always be obvious. Recognizing sexual harassment and learning what you can do to hold coworkers or supervisors accountable helps protect your right to a safe workplace.

At Domb Rauchwerger LLP, we know that being dismissed or forced to quit your job due to sexual harassment leaves you feeling isolated. If you have experienced repeated instances of sexual harassment or lost your job because of harassment, our team can help. We commit to holding employers accountable for violating state employment law and pursue justice for our clients in Pasadena, the surrounding areas, and across California.

Call Domb Rauchwerger LLP at (213) 772-5882 or complete our free case review form to request a consultation with a Pasadena sexual harassment lawyer. Se habla Español.

The Two Main Types of California Workplace Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment can be divided into two categories as follows: 

• Quid pro quo occurs when a job benefit, such as a promotion or pay raise, depends on the employee consenting to some form of sexual conduct.
• Hostile work environment refers to any conduct that is unwelcome, related to gender or sex, and significant enough to create an abusive environment or negatively affect the conditions of your employment.

Sexual harassment can affect female and male employees of any gender. Spotting harassment in the workplace can be challenging. Some individuals may not realize they have experienced harassment and may instead feel awkward or forced to deal with unwelcome advances.

If disruptive behavior causes dread, anxiety, or discomfort in your workplace, it may create a hostile work environment. You could have legal grounds for a claim if you experience such conditions.

When the behavior is unclear or subtle, our legal team works to identify any illegal actions that may have taken place. We offer personalized consultations, so you have the guidance and information you need as you move through the complexities of your employment situation.

Examples of Workplace Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment includes a wide range of inappropriate and offensive behaviors. Recognizing these behaviors helps employees understand their rights and know when to take action.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Openly discussing or asking employees about sexual proclivities or sexual orientation
• Giving unwelcome romantic or sexual gifts
• Repeated remarks or commentary about an employee’s looks, attractiveness, or appearance
• Making sexually suggestive jokes
• Sexually provocative or explicit texting or emailing
• Spreading sexually charged rumors about a coworker
• Distributing or displaying revealing, inappropriate, or nude photos

Sexual harassment does not have to target you directly. Even if you were not the direct target, you may still be able to pursue justice. For example, if coworkers made sexual comments about someone else, you could seek damages for bystander harassment. 

If sexually harassing conduct is aimed at another person—not you—typically that harassment must be more severe for your claim to succeed. Carefully document each incident and seek legal guidance to understand your options. Our attorneys help you gather the information you need, offering you resources and support as you handle the situation.

Filing a Sexual Harassment Claim in Pasadena: What to Expect

If you choose to act after experiencing sexual harassment at work in Pasadena, you will move through several key steps. Typically, your process starts by notifying your employer, usually by filing a complaint with human resources or another official channel. California employers must investigate formal harassment reports and take steps to protect employees. Keeping detailed documentation and clear records strengthens your claim as you progress through each stage.

After you report internally, you may have the option to file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (formerly DFEH) if the employer does not resolve the issue. This agency enforces employment discrimination laws in Pasadena and throughout California. The legal environment in Pasadena makes having guidance from attorneys familiar with local courts, such as the Los Angeles Superior Court’s Pasadena branch, valuable. Every workplace may have different internal policies. A Pasadena sexual harassment attorney can help determine which steps are appropriate for your situation, and local experience is especially important when company policies or legal procedures affect your rights or timing.

Legal representation helps clients understand deadlines, evidence rules, and how employers may respond throughout a sexual harassment claim. At Domb Rauchwerger LLP, we have two partners work together on every case and draw on experience representing corporations to anticipate employer defenses. This collaborative approach gives you frequent updates and consistent support, so you always know where your case stands as you move forward. If you believe you have a case, do not hesitate to reach out to a seasoned sexual harassment lawyer from our firm as soon as possible.

Statute of Limitations and Key Deadlines for Pasadena Claims

Every sexual harassment claim in California comes with strict filing deadlines that impact your options for relief. Pasadena employees must generally submit a complaint to the California Civil Rights Department within three years of the incident. Timely action is important, since missing the deadline may block your case from moving forward. Pasadena courts may process employment claims differently depending on local holidays or precedent, so your attorney ensures proper and prompt filing. Actively tracking deadlines from the outset keeps your options open.

If your workplace belongs to a larger company in Pasadena or Los Angeles County, additional steps may apply. Consulting with a skilled sexual harassment attorney who is familiar with both statewide and local rules helps you avoid unnecessary delays. If you have questions about when to start, consult an attorney early to protect your rights and keep every option available.

Our qualified sexual harassment lawyer is ready to help you. Get in touch via online form or call (213) 772-5882 to make an appointment right away. Your initial consultation is free.