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Los Angeles Hostile Workplace Lawyer

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Everyone has the right to work in a safe environment. Aside from the business operations, the workplace should be supportive, collaborative, and free from harassment and discrimination. That is why laws have been put in place to protect workers and to create safe workspaces. Unfortunately, there are some people who create a hostile workplace and whose actions are prohibited by California law.

Who is Protected From Harassment in Los Angeles?

Harassment is prohibited in all workplaces in California and is the most pervasive form of discrimination. No matter how many or how few employees a business has, creating a hostile work environment based on protected characteristics can result in a hostile work environment lawsuit, and victims can seek compensation for their pain and suffering (for emotional distress damages).

The following is a list of protected characteristics:

  • Age
  • Race
  • Religion
  • National origin
  • Color
  • Disability
  • Genetic information
  • Sex gender
  • Gender identity
  • Sexual orientation
  • Ancestry
  • Military status
  • Veteran status

If you have been a victim of harassment or discrimination in the workplace, contact Blackstone Law Firm. We offer dedicated and legal representation and fight for the rights of people to work in a safe environment that’s free from discrimination.

What is a Hostile Work Environment in Los Angeles?

A hostile work environment can be overt or subtle. When someone or even a group of people use words or actions to intimidate, abuse, or threaten someone, this creates a hostile work environment. In addition, if someone is verbally, physically, or visually harassed in a sexual manner through jokes, touching, or inappropriate comments, this too is prohibited. 

The following are examples of discriminatory conduct:

  • Making rude comments about someone’s religion
  • Laughing at and making jokes about the disability of a coworker
  • Using racial slurs
  • Offensive comments
  • Unwanted sexual advances
  • Uncomfortable physical contact
  • Remarks about someone’s age

While there are people who will brush off harassment and downplay the discriminatory actions of another, it is important to understand that discrimination of any kind has a negative impact on the victim and even those who have witnessed the behavior. There is no reason to tolerate unwelcomed and discriminatory behavior.

What Do I Do If I Am in a Hostile Work Environment in Los Angeles?

There is nothing normal about working in a hostile work environment. If you have been a victim of harassment at your job, consider the following information that may help you take action:

Confront the Person

Depending on your circumstances and comfort level, you may choose to speak to the offender and let them know that their words or actions are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. If you feel safe doing so, you may wish to have a witness present for support. In some situations, addressing the behavior directly may help stop it from continuing or prevent similar conduct toward others.

Talk to the Proper Authorities

If you are in a large company, contact your Human Resources department and tell them what has occurred. For those in a smaller organization, talk to your manager and inform them of the situation. Your company has a legal obligation to investigate and address the situation. 

Document Everything

When you are a victim of harassment, document everything and create a paper trail. This will help you in proving your case, especially if your company isn’t doing what they are supposed to in these circumstances. 

Harassment of protected classes can be extremely emotional, causing distress and job insecurities. The hostile work environment lawyers at Blackstone Law Firm will assess all the relevant details of your case and advocate for you. You do not have to navigate this process alone. 

Choose Blackstone Law Firm for your Hostile Workplace Lawyer in Los Angeles, CA

Hostile work environment cases generally involve sensitive information. Our Los Angeles employment lawyers treat their clients like family and are driven by our values of honesty, integrity, and family. We will fight on your behalf and make sure the law is enforced and equitable. We have a history of excellence and success in case resolutions* and are dedicated to honest legal representation.

If you have questions about hostile work environment cases or are struggling with what to do about harassment issues in your workplace, contact us at (310) 956-4054 for a free consultation or fill out our contact form.

*Past results do not guarantee, warrant, or predict a similar outcome in any case. Every matter is unique and must be evaluated based on its own facts and circumstances.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Hostile Work Environment in California

What is a hostile work environment under California law?
Under California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), Government Code section 12940 and following, a hostile work environment may exist when unwelcome conduct based on a protected characteristic, such as race, sex, religion, disability, age, or another protected class, is severe or pervasive enough to alter the conditions of employment. Whether particular conduct qualifies depends on the specific circumstances, and a qualified attorney can help evaluate your situation.
Is a single incident enough to create a hostile work environment?
It may be, depending on the circumstances. Under California law, a single incident of harassing conduct may be enough if it unreasonably interfered with the employee's work performance or created an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment. Gov. Code § 12923(b). Because outcomes turn on the facts, it is best to consult a qualified California employment attorney about your specific situation.
What can I do if I am experiencing a hostile work environment in California?
Options may include reporting the conduct through your employer's internal process, preserving relevant information such as dates and communications, and speaking with a qualified employment attorney about your rights. California law prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who report harassment or file a complaint. When preserving information, use only material that you lawfully possess, and do not access restricted company systems or obtain confidential, proprietary, privileged, or personal information that you are not authorized to possess. The best course of action depends on your circumstances.
How long do I have to take action in California?
Deadlines vary depending on the type of claim and the facts involved. For claims under FEHA, an administrative complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) generally must be filed within three years of the last unlawful act, and after receiving a right-to-sue notice, a civil lawsuit generally must be filed within one year. Exceptions and different procedural requirements may apply, so because missing a deadline can affect your rights, consider seeking legal advice promptly to understand which deadlines may apply to you.
What does it cost to pursue a hostile work environment claim in California?
We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don't pay unless we win. If there is no recovery, you owe nothing in attorney fees or costs.

Experiencing a Hostile Work Environment in California?

If you believe you may be facing a hostile work environment, our team may be able to help evaluate the circumstances. We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win. If there is no recovery, you owe nothing in attorney fees or costs.

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Legal Disclaimer The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship with Blackstone Law, APC or any of its attorneys. Every situation is different, and the application of law varies depending on individual facts and circumstances. Laws and filing deadlines change over time. If you believe you may have a hostile work environment claim, you should consult with a qualified California employment attorney promptly to understand your specific legal rights and options. Past results do not guarantee, warrant, or predict a similar outcome in any case. Every matter is unique and must be evaluated based on its own facts and circumstances.