Lawyers for Sexual Assault in the Workplace Serving Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Kern, and Ventura Counties
Sexual assault in the workplace is an egregious violation of an individual’s rights and dignity, with consequences that extend far beyond the immediate harm inflicted. The aftermath of such an assault can be overwhelming, affecting not only the victim’s emotional and psychological well-being but also their professional life. At Akopyan Law Firm, A.P.C., we are committed to standing up for victims of workplace sexual assault. Our experienced legal team, serving Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Kern, and Ventura Counties, is dedicated to helping victims seek justice and hold perpetrators accountable. If you or a loved one has been subjected to sexual assault in the workplace, a Los Angeles sexual assault attorney from our firm is ready to provide the skilled legal representation you need.
Understanding Sexual Assault in the Workplace
Sexual assault in the workplace encompasses a range of non-consensual and inappropriate behaviors that can occur between employees, supervisors, clients, or anyone within the work environment. These behaviors can range from unwanted physical contact and advances to more coercive actions like threats or attempts to manipulate an employee into unwanted sexual activities. It’s important to note that workplace sexual assault is not only a criminal act but also a violation of civil rights under various state and federal laws.
The impact of such an assault is profound. Victims often feel a deep sense of violation, fear, and humiliation, which can permeate every aspect of their lives. The workplace, which should be a safe environment, becomes a source of trauma. This trauma can manifest in numerous ways, including anxiety, depression, and a decline in job performance. Many victims struggle with the decision to report the assault, fearing retaliation or being disbelieved. This is why seeking the counsel of a sexual assault attorney is crucial. A sexual assault attorney Los Angeles CA can provide the support and legal guidance necessary to navigate this difficult journey.
Laws Prohibiting Sexual Assault in the Workplace
Both state and federal laws provide strong protections against sexual assault in the workplace. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is one of the cornerstone federal laws prohibiting discrimination based on sex, which includes sexual harassment and assault. This law makes it illegal for employers to allow a hostile work environment or to retaliate against employees who report sexual assault.
In addition to federal protections, California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) offers additional layers of protection. FEHA not only prohibits sexual harassment and assault but also mandates that employers take all reasonable steps to prevent such conduct from occurring in the workplace. This includes conducting thorough investigations and taking appropriate disciplinary action against those found responsible.
Since the phrase “sexual assault” encompasses a lot of different behaviors, there are many other laws that may come into play. When trying to determine if the law has been violated, it is therefore preferable for victims to consult a sexual assault attorney Los Angeles instead of trying to go at it alone.
Victims of workplace sexual assault have the right to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Civil Rights Department (CRD). These agencies are responsible for enforcing laws that protect against workplace discrimination and harassment. However, navigating these processes can be complex and intimidating. A knowledgeable sexual assault attorney can guide you through the filing process, ensure that your complaint is properly documented, and represent your interests throughout any ensuing legal proceedings.
Illustrations of Sexual Assault in the Workplace
Sexual assault in the workplace can manifest in various forms, some more overt and others more subtle. Understanding these behaviors is critical to recognizing when a violation has occurred. Examples of workplace sexual assault can include:
Unwanted physical contact, such as groping, fondling, or brushing against someone in a sexual manner. These actions are often disguised as accidental or incidental but are deliberate violations of personal space and autonomy.
Coercion, where an individual is pressured into engaging in sexual activities through threats of negative job consequences, such as demotion, firing, or loss of benefits. This coercion may also include promises of career advancement or other favors in exchange for compliance.
Forcible sexual acts, including attempted rape or rape, which are severe criminal offenses. Such acts may occur in the workplace or during work-related events, such as business trips or office parties.
Continuous and unwanted sexual advances, whether verbal or physical, that create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. These advances may include inappropriate comments, gestures, or actions that persist despite the victim’s clear discomfort or objections.
Retaliation against a victim who reports sexual assault, which can include actions such as demotion, transfer to a less desirable position, or exclusion from important projects. Retaliation itself is illegal and compounds the harm caused by the initial assault.
Each of these examples underscores the severe nature of sexual assault in the workplace and the importance of taking immediate legal action. A sexual assault lawyer Los Angeles can help you identify the specific legal violations that have occurred and pursue justice on your behalf.
The Impact of Workplace Sexual Assault
The consequences of sexual assault in the workplace extend far beyond the immediate physical and emotional trauma. Victims often experience a profound disruption to their personal and professional lives. On a personal level, the psychological effects can include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and a deep sense of shame or guilt. These feelings can be debilitating, making it difficult for victims to maintain relationships, focus on daily tasks, or even leave their homes.
Professionally, the impact can be equally devastating. The trauma of sexual assault can lead to a decline in job performance, absenteeism, or even the loss of employment. Victims may find it difficult to trust colleagues or supervisors, leading to strained working relationships and a toxic work environment. In some cases, victims may be forced to leave their jobs altogether, either due to ongoing harassment or because the work environment has become too hostile.
Moreover, the fear of retaliation or being ostracized often prevents victims from reporting the assault, allowing the perpetrator to continue their behavior unchecked. This is why it is crucial to work with the best sexual assault attorneys Los Angeles has to offer. A skilled sexual assault attorney Los Angeles CA can help you address these issues and seek compensation for the damages you have suffered.
In addition to the emotional and psychological toll, workplace sexual assault can also have financial implications. Victims may face medical expenses for physical injuries, therapy costs for emotional trauma, and lost wages due to time off work. A sexual assault attorney Los Angeles can help you pursue compensation for these and other damages, ensuring that you have the financial resources needed to recover and rebuild your life.
Why Choose Akopyan Law Firm, A.P.C.
At Akopyan Law Firm, A.P.C., we understand the profound impact that sexual assault in the workplace can have on your life. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to victims of sexual assault. If you are searching for sexual assault attorneys near me, look no further than our firm.
We serve clients across Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Kern, and Ventura Counties, and we are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring that justice is served. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of the legal complexities involved in sexual assault cases and are prepared to advocate aggressively on your behalf. Whether you need a sexual assault lawyer Los Angeles or a sexual assault in the workplace lawyer, we are here to help.
At Akopyan Law Firm, A.P.C., we believe in treating every client with the respect and dignity they deserve. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your needs, and develop a personalized legal strategy designed to achieve the best possible outcome. Our goal is to help you reclaim your life and career while holding those responsible for your suffering accountable.
If you are considering legal action, we encourage you to contact us as soon as possible. Time is of the essence in these cases, and early intervention by a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome.
Don’t let the trauma of workplace sexual assault define your future. Contact Akopyan Law Firm, A.P.C., today to speak with a sexual assault lawyer near me and take the first step towards reclaiming your life and career. We are here to support you every step of the way.
Areas Served:
The litigation and trial attorneys of the Akopyan Law Firm, A.P.C. provide services throughout Southern California including but not limited to Adelanto, Agoura Hills, Alhambra, Aliso Viejo, Altadena, Anaheim, Apple Valley, Arcadia, Arleta, Atwater Village, Azuza, Bakersfield, Baldwin Park, Banning, Beaumont, Bell, Bell Gardens, Bellflower, Beverly Hills, Blythe, Boyle Heights, Brea, Brentwood, Buena Park, Burbank, Calabasas, Calimesa, Camarillo, Canoga Park, Canyon Lake, Carson, Cathedral City, Cerritos, Chatsworth, Chino Hills, Chino, Claremont, Coachella, Colton, Compton, Costa Mesa, Corona, Covina, Culver City, Cypress, Dana Point, Desert Hot Springs, Diamond Bar, Downey, Duarte, Eagle Rock, East Hollywood, East Los Angeles, Eastvale, Echo Park, El Monte, El Segundo, El Sereno, Encino, Fontana, Fountain Valley, Fullerton, Gardena, Garden Grove, Glassell Park, Glendale, Glendora, Granada Hills, Hacienda Heights, Hawthorne, Hemet, Hesperia, Highland Park, Highland, Hollywood, Hollywood Hills, Huntington Beach, Huntington Park, Indian Wells, Indio, Inglewood, Irvine, Jurupa Valley, La Canada Flintridge, La-Crescenta Montrose, La Habra, La Mirada, La Palma, La Puente, La Quinta, La Verne, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Lakewood, Lake Balboa, Lake Elsinore, Lake Forest, Lancaster, Lawndale, Lincoln Heights, Loma Linda, Long Beach, Los Alamitos, Los Angeles, Los Feliz, Lynwood, Manhattan Beach, Mar Vista, Maywood, Menifee, Mission Hills, Mission Viejo, Monrovia, Montclair, Montebello, Monterey Park, Moorpark, Moreno Valley, Murrieta, Newbury Park, Newhall, Newport Beach, Norco, North Hills, North Hollywood, Northridge, Norwalk, Ontario, Orange, Oxnard, Pacific Palisades, Pacoima, Palos Verdes, Palmdale, Palm Desert, Palm Springs, Panorama City, Paramount, Pasadena, Perris, Pico Rivera, Placentia, Pomona, Porter Ranch, Rancho Cucamonga, Rancho Mirage, Rancho Santa Margarita, Redondo Beach, Reseda, Rialto, Riverside, Rosemead, Rowland Heights, San Bernardino, San Clemente, San Dimas, San Gabriel, San Fernando, San Jacinto, San Juan Capistrano, San Pedro, Santa Ana, Santa Clarita, Santa Monica, Sawtelle, Seal Beach, Shadow Hills, Sherman Oaks, Silver Lake, Simi Valley, South El Monte, South Gate, South Pasadena, South Whittier, Stanton, Studio City, Sun Valley, Sunland, Sylmar, Tarzana, Temecula, Temple City, Thousand Oaks, Toluca Lake, Torrance, Tujunga, Tustin, Twentynine Palms, Upland, Valencia, Valley Glen, Valley Village, Van Nuys, Ventura, Victorville, Walnut, West Covina, West Hills, West Hollywood, West Puente Valley, Westchester, Westminster, Westwood, Whittier, Wildomar, Winnetka, Woodland Hills, Yorba Linda
We Can Fight On Behalf of Sexual Assault Victims Throughout Southern California, Including Los Angeles, Bakersfield, Orange, Riverside, San Berardino, and Oxnard
Call us today at (818) 509-9975 or contact us online to schedule a complimentary case evaluation. We have extensive experience in all aspects of employment law, including sexual harassment cases.