Have You Been Sexually Harassed at Work in Los Angeles? Derek Smith Law Group Can Help.
Wondering what to do if you are being sexually harassed at work in Los Angeles? If you have faced unwelcome sexual behavior—such as inappropriate comments, unwanted touching, or quid pro quo demands from a supervisor—you may have legal grounds to take action. Sexual harassment is illegal under both California and federal law, including the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.
With over 30 years of experience in Los Angeles employment law, we offer a 100% Free Case Evaluation and operate on a No Fees Unless You Win basis. Our team is available 24/7 and provides multilingual support in Spanish, Hindi, Korean, Mandarin, Tagalog, and more. Call (310) 602-6050 today to understand your rights and how we can help you pursue justice.
What Qualifies as Sexual Harassment in Los Angeles Workplaces?
What does sexual harassment look like at work in Los Angeles? Workplace sexual harassment refers to any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature in a professional setting. It can be verbal, physical, or visual and often creates a hostile or offensive work environment. Harassment can come from anyone — a boss, manager, coworker, or even a client — and it is a form of sex-based workplace discrimination under California and federal law.
Under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), there are two primary types of workplace sexual harassment:
1. Quid Pro Quo Harassment in Los Angeles Workplaces
This term means “something for something.” This occurs when a person in authority (like a supervisor or manager) demands sexual favors in exchange for job benefits or threatens negative consequences if those demands are refused. Examples include:
- “Sleep with me if you want that promotion.”
- “Go on a date with me or you’ll be fired.”
- “I’ll approve your time off if you send me personal photos.”
Even a single incident can support a strong legal claim with a Los Angeles sexual harassment attorney.
2. Hostile Work Environment in California
This form of harassment involves severe or pervasive unwelcome sexual conduct that makes the work environment intimidating, hostile, or abusive. Unlike quid pro quo, it doesn’t require a direct trade-off. Instead, it can be a pattern of offensive behavior — such as constant sexual jokes, inappropriate touching, or displaying explicit materials — that interferes with your ability to do your job in a Los Angeles workplace.
Examples of unwelcome sexual conduct that creates an intimidating, offensive, or hostile atmosphere:
- Unwanted touching, groping, or physical contact
- Sexual comments, jokes, or persistent unwelcome flirtation
- Displaying pornographic images or materials
- Sending inappropriate texts, emails, or messages
- Sexual gestures, leering, or staring
- Spreading sexual rumors about colleagues/coworkers
- Graphic or demeaning comments about someone’s body
In many Los Angeles workplaces, this kind of harassment involves intimidation or abuse of power. Sexual harassment often creates an intimidating atmosphere, whether through blatant demands or pervasive inappropriate behavior. Victims may feel shocked, scared, or unsure of how to respond when subjected to such treatment.
If you have experienced any of these behaviors at work in Los Angeles, our employment attorneys can help. Call Derek Smith Law Group at (310) 602-6050 for a 100% free consultation.
Wondering if what you have experienced at work counts as sexual harassment under California law? Sexual harassment is not always easy to recognize. Below are real scenarios handled by our attorneys that illustrate how sexual harassment shows up in California workplaces:
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Sexual jokes and punishments from a boss:
A boss or supervisor who regularly makes sexual jokes or inappropriate comments about an employee’s body, clothing, or personal life — making it hard to concentrate or feel safe at work — and punishing them if they say no. This includes assigning them less desirable shifts, excluding them from projects, or unfairly criticizing their performance.
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Pressure for a sexual relationship:
A supervisor or boss who pressures employees into sexual relationships, using their position of power to suggest that saying no could cost the employee their job, opportunities for promotions, or important assignments.
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Unwanted advances that continue:
A boss or manager who continues making sexual advances after being told to stop — through messages, physical proximity, or invitations — contributing to a workplace environment that feels uncomfortable, unsafe, or threatening.
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Favoritism for sexual compliance:
A supervisor or boss who is involved in sexual relationships with some employees and treats them more favorably — giving better shifts, raises, or promotions — while punishing others who do not comply or refuse the same behavior.
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HR ignores complaints:
A coworker who touches another employee inappropriately or makes lewd, sexual remarks. Even after the employee reports it to HR or management, the company fails to take any meaningful action to stop the harassment.
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Retaliation after reporting:
An employee who is fired, demoted, transferred to a less desirable location, or suddenly left out of meetings after they reported sexual harassment to HR, a supervisor, or filed an external complaint — a clear form of illegal retaliation.
If any of these examples sound familiar, you may have a strong legal case. You are not alone — and our Los Angeles sexual harassment lawyers are here to support you. Call Derek Smith Law Group at (310) 602-6050 for a 100% free, confidential consultation.
Who Can be the Victim of Workplace Sexual Harassment in Los Angeles, CA?
If you have experienced sexual advances, inappropriate comments, or retaliation after reporting misconduct, you may have a legal claim. Call a Los Angeles sexual harassment attorney at Derek Smith Law Group at 800-807-2209 for a free, confidential consultation. We represent employees in all industries and work on a contingency fee — you do not pay unless we win.
Success Stories: How We have Helped Los Angeles Employees
What are some real examples of sexual harassment cases handled in Los Angeles workplaces? At Derek Smith Law Group, our Los Angeles employment attorneys have helped employees across industries stand up to harassment, retaliation, and abuse of power. Below are anonymized, real-world examples based on patterns we’ve encountered:
1. Healthcare Worker Facing Ongoing Harassment in Westside LA
Maria, a nurse at a major Los Angeles hospital, endured months of unwanted touching and inappropriate comments from a supervising physician. After her internal complaints were ignored, she contacted our firm. We gathered key evidence, including witness statements, and filed a comprehensive claim. The case settled for $1.2 million, and the hospital adopted new harassment prevention policies.2. Tech Employee Retaliated Against in Venice Beach
David, a software engineer at a Venice Beach startup, reported a hostile work environment filled with sexual jokes and offensive behavior. After he spoke up, he was removed from projects and isolated. Our attorneys secured an $850,000 settlement and a formal letter of recommendation, allowing him to move forward confidently in his career.3. Restaurant Worker’s Quid Pro Quo Case in Downtown LA
Jennifer, a server at a downtown Los Angeles restaurant, was pressured for dates by her manager, who controlled her schedule. When she refused, her hours were cut. We took the case to trial and won a $2.8 million verdict, sending a powerful message that quid pro quo harassment is unacceptable.Disclaimer: These stories are illustrative of common patterns in Los Angeles workplaces. Names and identifying details have been changed for privacy.
If any of these situations sound familiar, contact Derek Smith Law Group at (310) 602-6050 for a free, confidential consultation
Common Types of Sexual Harassment in Los Angeles
What are the different types of workplace sexual harassment in Los Angeles, California? Sexual harassment manifests in various forms across Los Angeles workplaces. Understanding these different types can help you identify inappropriate behavior and take appropriate action. Our 30+ years of experience representing clients has shown us that harassment often falls into these categories:
1. Physical Harassment in LA Workplaces
Physical harassment involves unwelcome physical contact or intimidation tactics:
- Unwanted touching, hugging, or massaging
- Deliberately brushing against someone’s body
- Blocking someone’s path or movements
- Physical assault or threats of physical harm
- Unwelcome kissing attempts
- Standing unnecessarily close to invade personal space
- Forced physical contact disguised as “friendly” behavior
Industry Example: In the entertainment industry, we’ve represented clients who experienced unwanted touching during “private auditions” or “meetings” with producers and executives.
2. Verbal Harassment in California Companies
Verbal harassment includes spoken comments of a sexual nature:
- Persistent unwelcome sexual advances
- Sexual jokes, innuendos, and stories
- Inappropriate questions about sexual history or preferences
- Romantic pressure after rejection
- Sexual comments about clothing, body parts, or appearance
- Spreading sexual rumors about colleagues
- Unwelcome whistling or catcalling
Industry Example: Tech startups in Silicon Beach often have casual cultures where inappropriate “locker room talk” can become normalized, creating hostile environments for employees.
3. Visual Harassment in Los Angeles Workplaces
Visual harassment involves the display or sharing of inappropriate visual content:
- Displaying pornographic posters, magazines, or screen savers
- Showing sexually explicit videos or images
- Making lewd gestures or sexual facial expressions
- Drawing sexually explicit pictures or graffiti
- Exposing oneself inappropriately
- Leaving sexually explicit materials where others will find them
- Unwelcome sexual staring or leering
Industry Example: In manufacturing facilities across Vernon and Commerce, we’ve handled cases involving sexually explicit calendars and images posted in break rooms and locker areas.
4. Digital Harassment in Modern Los Angeles Offices
Digital harassment has increased significantly with technology adoption:
- Sending unwanted sexually explicit texts, emails, or direct messages
- Sharing inappropriate sexual content through workplace chat platforms
- Making sexual comments on social media accounts
- Cyberstalking or monitoring online activities
- Pressuring colleagues for intimate photos
- Creating fake online profiles to harass coworkers
- Unwelcome video calls with sexual undertones
Industry Example: Professional service firms in Downtown LA have seen cases where senior partners send inappropriate late-night messages to subordinates, creating pressure due to power dynamics.
5. Gender-based Harassment in California Workplaces
Gender-based harassment includes behaviors targeting someone based on their gender:
- Derogatory comments about gender stereotypes
- Hostile remarks about women in leadership
- Offensive jokes about gender roles
- Treating employees differently based on gender
- Dismissing contributions based on gender
- Making demeaning comments about masculinity or femininity
- Enforcing gender-specific dress codes unnecessarily
Industry Example: In healthcare settings throughout Los Angeles County, we’ve represented female physicians who faced persistent undermining comments suggesting they were less competent than male colleagues.
6. Third-party Harassment in Service Industries
Third-party harassment comes from non-employees:
- Customers making sexual advances toward service staff
- Clients requesting specific employees based on appearance
- Vendors making inappropriate comments during deliveries
- Patients making sexual comments during treatment
- Hotel guests exposing themselves to housekeeping staff
- Restaurant patrons groping servers
- Contractors creating hostile environments during on-site work
Industry Example: The hospitality industry in Los Angeles faces significant challenges with third-party harassment, particularly in hotel and restaurant settings where we’ve represented numerous employees harassed by guests and customers.
7. Same-sex Harassment in Los Angeles Companies
Same-sex harassment occurs regardless of gender identity:
- Unwelcome advances from someone of the same gender
- Sexual jokes or comments between members of the same gender
- Gender-role harassment targeting perceived nonconformity
- Hazing rituals with sexual components
- Unwanted touching or physical contact
- Offensive comments about sexual orientation
- Creating hostile environments based on gender expression
Industry Example: In retail establishments throughout Los Angeles, we’ve handled cases where employees faced harassment from same-gender supervisors who used their authority to demand sexual favors.
Contact Derek Smith Law Group today at (310) 602-6050 for a 100% free, confidential consultation with a sexual harassment lawyer in Los Angeles.
Sexual Harassment Representation Across Los Angeles Industries
With over 30 years of experience representing sexual harassment victims, Derek Smith Law Group has developed specialized knowledge of workplace harassment patterns across diverse Los Angeles industries. Below we explore the unique challenges faced by employees in different sectors and how our experienced attorneys can help.
1. Entertainment & Media Industry Sexual Harassment
The entertainment industry involves unique pressures, intense competition, and unbalanced power dynamics—conditions that can lead to harassment on sets, during casting, or at networking events.
Common examples of harassment in entertainment and media settings include:
- Power imbalances between executives and talent
- Unwanted advances during auditions, fittings, or production
- “Casting couch” expectations for roles or opportunities
- Inappropriate behavior on set or backstage
- Harassment during industry events or after-parties
- Retaliation threats regarding “blacklisting” from future work
Case Example: A production assistant was repeatedly harassed by a well-known director. Legal action led to a $1.4 million settlement and mandatory harassment training for all production staff.
2. Technology Industry Sexual Harassment
Tech workplaces—especially startups—often blur personal and professional boundaries. Rapid growth, male-dominated teams, and informal cultures can create environments where harassment is overlooked.
Common examples of workplace harassment in the tech industry include:
- Inappropriate behavior or harassment during late-night coding sessions
- Exclusion from projects or decision-making roles
- “Bro culture” that normalizes offensive jokes or conduct
- Harassment on company messaging platforms
- Gender bias in promotions or leadership opportunities
Case Example: A female software engineer faced persistent harassment and gender-based discrimination. Legal intervention led to a $975,000 settlement and company-wide reforms.
3. Healthcare Industry Sexual Harassment
High-pressure healthcare environments involve close contact, overnight shifts, and hierarchical structures—often putting workers at risk of harassment from multiple sources.
Common examples of harassment in healthcare settings include:
- Inappropriate behavior from supervising doctors or coworkers
- Harassment during overnight shifts or in patient rooms
- Unwanted advances from patients or their family members
- Power dynamics during training or rotations
- Dismissal of complaints by hospital management
Case Example: A nurse experienced repeated harassment from both a physician and patients. After her complaints were ignored, a lawsuit resulted in protective policy changes and a substantial settlement.
4. Hospitality Industry Sexual Harassment
The hospitality industry often requires staff to interact closely with customers during long or late shifts—frequently without supervision—making it a high-risk environment for harassment.
Common examples of harassment in the hospitality and service industry include:
- Inappropriate behavior by guests or customers
- Harassment in hotel rooms or private service areas
- Sexual advances tied to tips or service ratings
- Exposure to intoxicated or aggressive patrons
- Lack of immediate action from supervisors
Case Example: A group of hotel housekeepers reported harassment from both management and guests. Legal action resulted in panic button implementation and a comprehensive settlement.
5. Retail Industry Sexual Harassment
Retail workers face constant exposure to customers and coworkers, often in confined spaces and off-hours, making them susceptible to various forms of harassment.
Common examples of workplace harassment in retail environments include:
- Harassment by customers in fitting rooms or at checkout
- Inappropriate comments or touching from managers
- Pressure to socialize or date coworkers
- Visual harassment in staff areas
- Harassment during inventory or overnight shifts
Case Example: A department store employee endured persistent harassment from her manager. With proper documentation, she secured a major settlement and the manager was removed.
6. Professional Services Industry Sexual Harassment
Corporate and office-based roles may seem secure but often involve closed-door meetings, power imbalances, and travel—creating subtle but harmful harassment scenarios.
Common examples of harassment in professional office settings include:
- Inappropriate conduct during business trips or client events
- Harassment in one-on-one meetings or office parties
- Digital harassment through work channels
- Power-based threats tied to promotions or raises
- Silence encouraged to protect firm reputation
Case Example: A paralegal faced harassment from a senior partner. Despite the firm’s attempt to minimize the issue, the case resulted in a seven-figure settlement and workplace policy reforms.
7. Manufacturing Industry Sexual Harassment
Factory and warehouse jobs often involve physical labor in isolated areas with minimal oversight, putting workers—especially women—at risk of harassment.
Common examples of harassment in manufacturing and industrial workplaces include:
- Inappropriate touching in tight or crowded workspaces
- Harassment in break rooms or during shift changes
- Exposure to explicit jokes, images, or materials
- Targeting of new or temporary employees
- Retaliation after reporting misconduct
Case Example: Multiple women at a manufacturing facility experienced ongoing harassment. Legal action brought workplace reforms, mandatory training, and significant compensation.
8. Education Sector Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment in educational settings poses unique challenges due to complex power dynamics and vulnerable populations. It can occur in public schools, private universities, community colleges, research institutions, and after-school programs.
Common forms of harassment in education include:
- Faculty or administrators misusing their authority
- Harassment in secluded areas on campus
- Inappropriate behavior during school events or academic conferences
- Sexual messages or conduct through school emails and online systems
- Retaliation or pressure during grading, tenure, or promotion decisions
Case Example: Our attorneys represented an assistant professor who experienced persistent harassment from her department chair. After documenting numerous incidents and the university’s failure to address the situation, we secured a substantial settlement and policy changes protecting other faculty members.
At Derek Smith Law Group, we understand that sexual harassment looks different across industries — and no two cases are alike. With over 30 years of experience handling workplace harassment cases in Los Angeles, we’re ready to help you take the next step. Call us today at (310) 602-6050 to speak with a sexual harassment lawyer. Your consultation is 100% free and confidential, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.
What Laws Protect Employees Against Sexual Harassment at Work in Los Angeles?
Both California state law and federal law strictly prohibit sexual harassment in the workplace. In California, the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) protects employees in companies with 5 or more workers. On the federal level, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act applies to businesses with 15 or more employees. These laws make it clear that employers must keep the workplace free from sexual harassment and can be held liable if they allow harassment to occur or fail to address complaints.
If you work in a Los Angeles business, hospital, restaurant, or office, these laws protect you. Employers are legally required to prevent and respond to any form of sexual harassment. Los Angeles workers benefit from California’s exceptionally strong anti-harassment laws, which provide greater protections than federal standards.
Key Legal Protections and Rights
- Right to a Harassment-Free Workplace: You are entitled to work in an environment free from sexual harassment or any form of discrimination. Employers in Los Angeles (and all of California) are required to take reasonable steps to prevent and promptly correct harassment.
- Employer Responsibility: If a supervisor harasses you, the employer is generally automatically liable. If a co-worker or even a non-employee (like a customer) harasses you, the employer can be held liable if they knew or should have known about the harassment and didn’t take swift action to stop it.
- Protection Against Retaliation: It is illegal for your employer to punish or fire you for reporting harassment or participating in an investigation. You have the right to speak up without fear of losing your job (more on retaliation below).
- Legal Remedies: Victims of workplace sexual harassment can file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD, formerly DFEH) or the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). These agencies investigate and can issue a “Right-to-Sue” letter, which allows you to file a lawsuit. Remedies may include monetary compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, punitive damages, and requirements that the employer improve workplace policies.
Filing Deadlines
- State (CRD): Up to 3 years from the last incident (as of 2024).
- Federal (EEOC): Typically 300 days in California.
Because laws evolve, it’s best to consult a Los Angeles sexual harassment attorney as soon as possible.
What’s New in California Sexual Harassment Law (2023–2024)
California has recently passed new laws that expand protections for workers facing sexual harassment, especially in remote and digital settings.
- SB 331 – “Silenced No More Act”: Employers can no longer use NDAs to silence employees in harassment or discrimination settlements. You have the right to speak out.
- AB 2188 (2024): Offers protection to remote and hybrid workers who experience harassment via Zoom, Slack, email, or other digital platforms.
- Expanded Retaliation Protections: Now includes protection against online defamation, job reassignment, exclusion from meetings, and subtle forms of workplace retaliation.
These updates ensure that California remains one of the strongest states for employee rights. Staying informed protects your future.
Call (310) 602-6050 for a 100% free, confidential consultation with a Los Angeles sexual harassment attorney. You do not pay unless we win.
“Our firm has secured justice for sexual harassment victims across Los Angeles for over three decades. We understand the courage it takes to come forward, and we’re committed to fighting for your rights every step of the way.”
Why Choose Our Los Angeles Sexual Harassment Attorneys?
Choosing the right legal team is crucial when you’re dealing with something as serious as workplace sexual harassment. Our Los Angeles sexual harassment attorneys combine legal expertise with genuine care for our clients. Here’s what sets us apart:
Extensive Experience
We focus on employment law and have handled numerous sexual harassment and discrimination cases across California. Our deep familiarity with these cases — and how to win them — means we can effectively navigate the legal system on your behalf.
Compassionate Support
We know how sensitive and personal these situations are. Our team treats every client with respect, empathy, and confidentiality. You will be heard and supported throughout the process. We make sure you’re informed and comfortable at each step.
Aggressive Advocacy
When it comes to standing up to employers, we are fearless. We negotiate firmly and won’t hesitate to take a case to trial if that’s what it takes. Our tenacious representation has helped clients secure justice, whether through settlements or courtroom verdicts.
Proven Results
Our firm has a strong track record of obtaining favorable outcomes for victims of workplace harassment and retaliation. While each case is unique, our history of significant settlements and awards showcases our commitment to fighting for our clients’ rights.
No Win, No Fee
Money should not stand between you and justice. You pay no upfront fees to hire us. We offer a free initial consultation, and if we take your case, we work on a contingency fee basis — meaning you pay nothing unless we win for you. This allows you to pursue your case without added financial stress.
Our firm is based in Los Angeles, and we’re proud to serve clients throughout Los Angeles and surrounding communities. From Downtown LA to Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Glendale, Pasadena, the San Fernando Valley, and beyond — wherever you work in the Greater Los Angeles area, we are ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Harassment in Los Angeles
Nothing upfront. Derek Smith Law Group works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Initial consultations are always 100% free and confidential.
No. It is against the law for an employer to retaliate against you for reporting sexual harassment or participating in a related investigation. They cannot fire you, demote you, cut your hours, change your assignments, or otherwise punish you simply because you spoke up. If your employer does retaliate after you report harassment, you could have a separate claim for unlawful retaliation in addition to the harassment claim. The law strongly protects your right to complain about misconduct without fear of reprisal.
The time limit, or statute of limitations, to file your sexual harassment claim varies between federal and state laws.
Under federal law, you have 300 days in California to file your charge with the EEOC. Once you receive your Right to Sue Letter from the EEOC, you have 90 days to file your complaint in federal court.
Under the FEHA, you have three years to file a claim for sexual harassment in the workplace with the DFEH. You do not have to wait for the DFEH to complete an investigation to get a Right to Sue letter. Instead, you may request the letter immediately and then file your complaint in state court.
The dedicated employment discrimination and sexual harassment lawyers at the Derek Smith Law Group will help ensure your complaint is filed with the proper agency or the courts within the appropriate time frame. Your attorneys will help ensure your case sees its day in court by submitting your legal filings on time.
<p>
In Los Angeles, the time limit to file a sexual harassment claim depends on whether you are pursuing the case under California state law or federal law:
</p>
<h3>Under California Law (FEHA – Fair Employment and Housing Act):</h3>
<ul>
<li>You generally have <strong>up to 3 years</strong> from the last incident of harassment to file a complaint with the <strong>California Civil Rights Department (CRD)</strong> (formerly DFEH).</li>
<li>Once the CRD issues a <strong>Right-to-Sue</strong> notice, you have <strong>1 year</strong> to file a lawsuit in civil court.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Under Federal Law (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act):</h3>
<ul>
<li>You must file a complaint with the <strong>Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)</strong> within <strong>300 days</strong> of the harassment (because California has its own agency).</li>
<li>After receiving a <strong>Right-to-Sue</strong> letter from the EEOC, you have <strong>90 days</strong> to file your lawsuit in federal court.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong> These deadlines are critical.</strong> If you miss them, you may lose your right to take legal action.</p>
<h3>Special Note:</h3>
<p>
If you are facing <strong>ongoing harassment</strong>, the time limit may be calculated from the <strong>most recent incident</strong>, not the first. This is known as the <em>“continuing violation” doctrine</em>.
</p>
Victims of workplace sexual harassment can seek several forms of compensation:
- Lost Wages and Benefits: If you missed work, lost your job, or were denied promotions due to the harassment or related retaliation, you can claim back pay and the value of lost benefits.
- Emotional Distress: The law recognizes the mental and emotional toll of harassment. You may recover damages for anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, or trauma resulting from the harassment.
- Medical or Therapy Costs: If you incurred expenses for counseling or medical treatment because of the harassment’s impact, those costs can be claimed.
- Punitive Damages: In egregious cases, the court might award punitive damages to punish the employer for especially bad conduct and deter future violations.
- Attorney’s Fees: California law often allows successful plaintiffs to recover their attorney’s fees and legal costs from the employer, so pursuing justice doesn’t leave you financially worse off.
Every case is unique, and the actual compensation will depend on the facts of your situation. An experienced attorney can give you an estimate of your case’s value after learning the details.
You still have legal protection. Employers can be liable for coworker harassment if they knew or should have known about it and failed to take appropriate action.
Harassment from any person in a position of power is illegal. If this has happened to you, you have the right to take legal action. People who misuse their authority to sexually harass others often include:
- Supervisors or employers who control promotions or job security
- Teachers or school staff who influence grades or opportunities
- Religious leaders who exploit emotional or spiritual trust
- Landlords or property managers who threaten housing benefits
We prioritize your privacy throughout the process. While some information may come out during an investigation, we work to maintain confidentiality to the fullest extent possible.
California law strictly prohibits retaliation against employees who report harassment. If you experience adverse actions after reporting, this creates an additional legal claim we can pursue.
Yes. While reporting internally can strengthen your case, we understand there are valid reasons why victims don’t report. This doesn’t prevent you from pursuing legal action.
Yes. In today’s remote and hybrid workplaces, sexual harassment isn’t limited to the office. Inappropriate messages via Slack, Zoom misconduct, late-night texts, or exclusion from virtual meetings can all constitute harassment. Under California law, if you work remotely in Los Angeles and are harassed by a coworker, manager, or client—you still have legal protections. Our firm has handled cases involving: Sexual jokes or comments in group chats, Inappropriate video call behavior, Retaliation for reporting harassment via email or messaging tools.
Absolutely. Employment laws protect all employees regardless of immigration status. Your citizenship or immigration status will not impact your right to legal protection from sexual harassment.
If the behavior was unwelcome, sexual in nature, and either severe or pervasive enough to create a hostile environment (or involved a quid pro quo situation), it likely qualifies. Contact us for a free evaluation of your specific situation.
While more evidence strengthens your case, your testimony alone can be sufficient. We can help gather additional evidence including witness statements, communications, company policies, and more.
When sexual harassment physically harms your body or well-being, you may have a claim for criminal sexual conduct. Criminal sexual conduct occurs in instances of rape and sexual assault. It also occurs in cases of stalking, online stalking, and revenge porn. If you experience these forms of sexual harassment, you can file a police report to press charges against your attacker. When you press charges against your attacker, you become a witness in a criminal sexual harassment case. The purpose of your criminal charge is to help ensure your attacker is properly punished for his actions and does not attack others.
Sometimes sexual harassment is indirect. Indirect harassment means that others receive images, text messages, emails, and photos of you. Indirect harassment means you are the intended victim, but others receive the photos, videos, or messages about you. For instance, revenge porn is a perfect example of indirect harassment.
Take Action Today — Speak with a Los Angeles Sexual Harassment Lawyer Now
If you are dealing with sexual harassment at work, it is time to take the next step. Whether you reported the misconduct and faced retaliation, or have endured ongoing inappropriate behavior, you deserve legal support that gets results.
At Derek Smith Law Group, PLLC, our Los Angeles employment attorneys have been fighting for employee rights for over 30 years. We represent workers across Downtown LA, Santa Monica, Hollywood, Pasadena, the San Fernando Valley, and throughout Los Angeles County.
From hospitals and restaurants to tech startups and schools, we understand the unique challenges employees face in every industry—and we are here to help you hold your employer accountable. We also offer multilingual legal support in Spanish, Hindi, Korean, Mandarin, Tagalog, and more, ensuring every employee has equal access to justice and guidance.
Remember: We offer 100% FREE confidential consultations and work on a contingency fee basis – you pay NOTHING unless we win. All consultations are completely confidential and protected by attorney-client privilege.
Areas We Serve in Los Angeles County
Derek Smith Law Group proudly represents clients across Los Angeles County. Whether you work in a restaurant in Santa Monica, a hotel in Downtown LA, a school in the San Fernando Valley, or a medical facility in Pasadena, we are here to help you fight workplace sexual harassment.
No matter where you are located, our team offers compassionate legal support and aggressive representation. We provide 100% free, confidential consultations to workers in every region of the county.
Downtown & Central Los Angeles: Downtown Los Angeles (near LA Superior Court), Koreatown, Little Tokyo, Thai Town, Little Ethiopia, Boyle Heights, East Los Angeles
San Fernando Valley: Sherman Oaks, Studio City, North Hollywood, Encino, Van Nuys, Northridge
Westside & Beach Communities: Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and Venice, Marina Del Rey, Culver City, Playa Vista
South Bay & Long Beach Area: Long Beach, Torrance, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, San Pedro, Wilmington
San Gabriel Valley & Eastern LA County: Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank, El Monte, Whittier, Pomona
Wherever you are in Los Angeles County, if you have been sexually harassed at work, help is just one call away. We understand the laws that protect employees in every neighborhood and can meet with you virtually or in person to begin building your case.
📞 Contact us now at (310) 602-6050 for your free consultation. We are available 24/7 and do not get paid unless we win your case.
Sexual Harassment Cases We Handle:
- Hostile Work Environment
- Quid Pro Quo
- Unwelcome Request For Sex
- Sexism in the Workplace
- Sexual Bribery
- Sexual Gift-Giving at Work
- Sexual Harassment by a Supervisor
- Sexual Harassment & Sexual Assault of Patients
- Workplace Sexual Coercion
- Non-Employee Sexual Harassment
- Gay and Lesbian Sexual Harassment
- Sexual Harassment at Off-Site Events
- Stalking in the Workplace
- Criminal Sexual Conduct
- Sexual Joking
- Co-Worker Sexual Harassment
- Sexual Orientation Harassment
- Unwanted Physical Contact
- Same-Sex Sexual Harassment
- Sexual Harassment at Office Holiday Parties
- Sexual Harassment By The CEO
- Sexual Harassment by a Manager
- Sexual Harassment by the Owner
- Online Sexual Harassment
- Fashion Industry Sexual Assault
- Pornography / Offensive Pictures at Work
Los Angeles Sexual Harassment Resources
- California Civil Rights Department: (800) 884-1684
- Equal Employment Opportunity Commission: (800) 669-4000
- Peace Over Violence Sexual Assault Hotline: (626) 793-3385
- Los Angeles County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service: (213) 243-1525
- LACCD Student Legal Aid Clinic: (213) 891-2201
- Sexual Harassment Support Network – LA: (213) 955-9090
Our Los Angeles Office Location
Derek Smith Law Group, PLLCUS Bank Tower
633 West 5th Street, Suite 3250
Los Angeles, California 90071
Phone: (310) 602-6050 | Email: derek@dereksmithlaw.com | Hours: Available 24/7
- Evening and weekend appointments available upon request
- Near 7th St/Metro Center Station
- Located 0.5 miles from Los Angeles Superior Court
- Virtual consultations available
- Home and hospital visits for seriously injured clients
This information is intended as general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique, and outcomes depend on specific circumstances. For advice tailored to your situation, please contact our attorneys directly.