Sexual Harassment Lawyer in Fontana Assisting Clients with Claims in the Workplace

When you apply for a job or arrive at your office in the morning, you should never be subjected to sexual harassment. Employers have a duty to take steps to prevent sexual harassment and to address it promptly when it occurs. Sexual harassment is extremely harmful, and individuals who have experienced it in the workplace should know that they have options to move forward with a claim.

Sexual harassment impacts the mental, emotional, and physical health of victims. This type of workplace misconduct can create a hostile working environment, affecting an individual’s productivity and career growth. Victims often feel isolated or intimidated, which highlights the importance of having a legal ally like Valiant Law, a trusted sexual harassment attorney in Fontana, to guide them through the legal process and advocate for their rights.

Sexual harassment in the workplace is prohibited under both federal and California state law. Whether you are an employer or an employee, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities under the law. Speaking with a California sexual harassment attorney can provide guidance and support.

Types of Harassment Claims We Handle in Fontana

The following harassment claims are examples of the types of cases we handle in Fontana workplaces:

• Sexual harassment: This includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile work environment.
• Other unlawful harassment: We also represent clients who experience harassment based on race, religious beliefs, disability, age, or other protected characteristics.

Our experience as a Fontana employment lawyer means we routinely support clients facing workplace challenges that extend beyond sexual harassment. Other forms of harassment in Fontana workplaces may involve harassment based on race, religion, disability, age, and other protected characteristics under California and federal law. 

By working with a firm that understands the specific issues faced by Fontana’s workforce, individuals can access advocacy informed by both legal requirements and the unique context of the local community. When evaluating a potential claim, we consider whether there is a pattern of behavior, whether management has responded appropriately, and what documentation may exist to support the employee's experience. This comprehensive approach helps ensure that each client receives tailored advice and the full protection of applicable laws.

Laws Prohibiting Sexual Harassment at California Workplaces

As noted above, both federal and state laws prohibit sexual harassment in the workplace, including the following:

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (federal law that applies to employers with 15 or more employees); and
• Fair Employment and Housing Act, or FEHA (California state law that applies to all employers regardless of the number of employees).

Title VII provides a federal baseline for employer responsibilities, requiring them to maintain a safe and harassment-free work environment. Meanwhile, FEHA extends protection to a wider range of employees as it applies to all employers in California, regardless of size. These laws address not only the resolution of harassment claims but also prevention, demanding regular training and clear communication of policies.

What Is Sexual Harassment in California?

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) states that sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination. According to the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing, the following behaviors may constitute sexual harassment in the workplace:

Common examples of conduct that may be considered sexual harassment in California include:

• Unwanted sexual advances: Any unwelcome physical or verbal advances of a sexual nature.
• Offering employment benefits in exchange for sexual favors: Conditioning promotions, raises, or other job benefits on sexual requests.
• Leering and sexual gestures: Obvious or subtle gestures intended to make another uncomfortable.
• Displaying sexually suggestive objects, pictures, cartoons, or posters: Posting, sharing, or circulating explicit images or materials in the workplace.
• Making derogatory comments, epithets, slurs, or jokes: Using humor or language that is sexually charged or demeaning.
• Making graphic comments or using sexually degrading words: Describing or referring to sexual acts or preferences in the workplace.
• Leaving suggestive or obscene messages or invitations: Sending inappropriate messages via email, text, or notes.
• Physical touching or assault: Any unwanted physical contact of a sexual nature.
• Impeding or blocking movements: Preventing someone from moving freely in their work environment.

Beyond these direct actions, sexual harassment also includes more subtle conduct, such as repeated inappropriate comments or creating an environment that feels unsafe or unsupportive. Consulting a workplace harassment lawyer in Fontana can provide guidance in navigating these complex situations. Sexual harassment can take many forms, and it is important to speak with an experienced California sexual harassment attorney if you have questions or concerns.

Since the definition of harassment covers a wide spectrum, it is important for both employees and employers in Fontana to recognize situations where conduct may cross the line. A workplace discrimination lawyer can assess whether persistent, minor behaviors have developed into a broader pattern of discomfort or intimidation. 

In some cases, employees believe only managers can be perpetrators; however, California law protects against harassment by supervisors, coworkers, and even non-employees such as clients or vendors. This broad protection is particularly relevant in Fontana's diverse workplaces, where staff, contractors, and third parties interact frequently. Seeking timely legal counsel can help workers understand what does and does not constitute actionable harassment, allowing them to make informed choices about how to proceed.

Employer Duties to Prevent Sexual Harassment Complaints

Employers in Fontana must follow specific steps to prevent sexual harassment complaints from arising in the workplace:

• Distribute copies of a writing that complies with Government Code 12950: This document outlines employer responsibilities for sexual harassment prevention and correction.
• Post a copy of the DFEH employment poster: The poster must be easily accessible to employees to inform them of their rights under the law.
• Develop a specific workplace prevention policy: The policy must specifically address harassment, discrimination, and retaliation.
• Distribute the workplace policy and require acknowledgment: All employees must receive and acknowledge the policy, confirming their understanding.
• Translate the policy: If at least 10 percent of employees speak a language other than English as their primary language, the policy must be provided in that language.
• Provide at least two hours of sexual harassment training every two years: Employers with 50 or more employees, including part-time and full-time staff, must ensure this training is completed.

In addition to these legal obligations, many reputable employers in Fontana take further steps to protect their staff. Some implement anonymous surveys to gather feedback on workplace culture and identify issues before they escalate. Others may consult a retaliation attorney in Fontana to review internal reporting structures, ensuring employees can raise concerns without fear of negative consequences. Investing in multilingual communications, regular reviews of policies, and accessible training resources all reinforce a company’s commitment to a fair and inclusive work environment. Consistent proactive measures help communicate this commitment to everyone and may deter future instances of harassment.

By implementing these measures, employers not only comply with legal standards but also foster a culture of respect and safety. Focusing on prevention minimizes risks and demonstrates organizational dedication to upholding employee rights while improving workplace morale and productivity.

Contact a Sexual Harassment Lawyer in Fontana to Discuss Your Claim

If you are an employer needing guidance to conduct a proper sexual harassment investigation or mitigate liability, or an employee who has experienced sexual harassment and wants more information about filing a claim, you should contact a California employment discrimination attorney. 

A Fontana employment lawyer at our firm understands that victims of workplace harassment may feel overwhelmed by the legal process or hesitant to come forward out of concern for repercussions at work. We offer confidential, client-centered consultations to help ease the stress that can come with considering your next steps. Our attorneys can assess your circumstances, help you document your experiences, and explain the steps required by California law if you choose to pursue a claim. 

If you experience employer retaliation because you reported misconduct, we are ready to help you explore your legal options and protect your rights. We work with clients across the Fontana area, providing guidance for employees and employers during mediation, settlement discussions, or court proceedings as appropriate. By focusing on strong advocacy and communication, we support the long-term well-being of our clients and encourage safer workplaces throughout the city.

Don't wait to get help with your case. Contact Valiant Law today.