Sexual harassment is always an unwelcomed act, but when it happens in the workplace it is a form of unlawful sex discrimination. Because sexual harassment is not always clearly understood, it’s important to note that the law defines it as unwelcomed verbal, visual, non-verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature based on someone’s sex that is severe or pervasive and creates a hostile work environment or affects working conditions.

Above you’ll find several key phrases within the definition that help us understand your rights and any potential legal claims you may have:

“Unwelcomed”

For it to be illegal, sexual harassment must be unwelcomed. This means you do not want it. Because of this, it is important to communicate to the harasser that you want the conduct to stop and/or that it is making you uncomfortable

“Of a Sexual Nature” or “Based on Sex”

Though many different kinds of physical, verbal, nonverbal or visual conduct of a sexual nature may be sexual harassment, here are some clearer examples:

Verbal or Written

• Commenting on a person’s clothing, personal behavior, personal relationships, or body
• Making Sexual Jokes or Innuendos
• Requesting Sexual Favors
• Spreading Rumors About One’s Sexual Life
• Threatening a Person for Refusing Sexual Advances

Physical

• Impeding Someone’s Movement
• Inappropriate Touching of a Body or Clothing
• Kissing, Hugging or Stroking
• Touching Someone Without Her Consent

Nonverbal

• Staring at A Person’s Body
• Making Derogatory Gestures
• Following a Person Around

Visual

• Displaying Posters, Drawings, Pictures, Screensavers or Emails of a Sexual Nature

Contact Us Today

While these explanations cover a lot of ground, it is important to understand that sexual harassment does not have to be sexually suggestive. There are many cases of harassment that include one individual making another feel uncomfortable. If you feel you are the victim of anything described here, contact us today.

We offer a free telephone, online or in person consultation. Contact us to schedule your appointment. We will welcome you to one of our law offices, or we can visit you in your hospital or home location. Our Santa Rosa and Sacramento attorneys will listen to you, consider the facts and offer preliminary advice about how to pursue the maximum available compensation for your injuries and losses.