What are the two types of sexual harassment?

The two main types of workplace sexual harassment are quid pro quo sexual harassment and hostile work environment harassment.

What constitutes sexual harassment at work?

Sexual harassment can include unwanted advances, comments, jokes, touching, sexual images, or other conduct that interferes with your ability to work safely or comfortably.

Is sexual harassment a form of discrimination?

Yes. Under both California and federal law, sexual harassment is considered a form of sex discrimination.

Can sexual harassment be verbal?

Yes. Sexual harassment does not require physical contact. Verbal comments, propositions, jokes, or remarks of a sexual nature may qualify.

Can sexual harassment happen outside of work?

Yes. Harassment connected to work, including conduct at work events or through company communication channels, can constitute workplace sexual harassment.

How do you prove sexual harassment in the workplace?

Evidence may include emails, text messages, witness statements, and records of complaints made to management or HR. Documentation and consistent reporting can help support a claim.

How do you file a sexual harassment complaint?

You may report sexual harassment internally to your employer or HR department, or externally to the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Consulting with an attorney can help protect your rights throughout the process.

What percentage of workers who experience sexual harassment report it?

Studies show that fewer than half of workers who experience sexual harassment formally report it, often due to fear of retaliation. Legal guidance can help protect employees who come forward.

Can you sue for sexual harassment?

Yes. If an employer fails to stop sexual harassment or retaliates against an employee for reporting it, the employee may sue to recover damages such as emotional distress, lost wages, and other compensation allowed by law.

Sexual Harassment

Q: What does quid pro quo sexual harassment mean?

Quid pro quo sexual harassment occurs when a supervisor or person in authority offers job benefits in exchange for sexual favors or threatens negative job consequences if the advances are refused.

California Sexual Harassment Attorneys

Your safety and dignity at work matter. If you’ve faced unwelcome comments, advances, or behavior that made you uncomfortable or unsafe, you have rights. Our California sexual harassment lawyers protect employees throughout the state from harassment, retaliation, and discrimination.

At Ranen Khademi PC, we represent employees who face sexual harassment or hostile work environments. Our attorneys have deep experience with California and federal claims, and we work to hold employers accountable while seeking justice and fair compensation.

Illegal Forms of Sexual Harassment in California

California law strictly prohibits sexual harassment in the workplace. It is sex discrimination, and employers must prevent and address it under state and federal law.

Here are the main forms of workplace sexual harassment we handle.

Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment – Occurs when a supervisor or person in authority offers job benefits, promotions, or favorable treatment in exchange for sexual favors, or threatens negative consequences for refusal.
Hostile Work Environment – Involves unwelcome conduct severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive workplace, including comments, jokes, touching, or sharing sexual images.
Retaliation for Reporting Harassment – It is illegal for an employer to punish you for speaking up, filing a complaint, or participating in an investigation.
Verbal Sexual Harassment – Includes offensive remarks, sexual jokes, propositions, or comments about appearance or gender.
Physical Sexual Harassment – Involves unwanted touching, blocking movement, or physical intimidation.
Online or Digital Harassment – Sexual messages, images, or comments sent by email, text, or social media also qualify as harassment.

If you have experienced any of these behaviors, our attorneys can help you take legal action and protect your rights.

Understand Your Rights in California: Sexual Harassment Laws

California offers some of the nation’s strongest protections against workplace sexual harassment. Key laws include:

California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) – Prohibits sexual harassment, requires employers to prevent it, and protects employees from retaliation.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 – This federal law classifies sexual harassment as a form of sex discrimination.
California Labor Code Section 1102.5 – Protects whistleblowers and employees who report unlawful conduct or harassment.

Employers must take all reasonable steps to prevent harassment and respond promptly and effectively. Failing to act can make them liable for damages.

We help you understand which laws apply and guide you through the complaint or lawsuit process.

Why Choose Ranen Khademi PC

Former Defense Attorneys

We’ve worked on the other side and know how employers and their lawyers build their cases.

Strategic Insight

Our team anticipates defense tactics and builds proactive, evidence-based strategies to counter them.

Personal Attention

You’ll work directly with experienced attorneys who take the time to understand your story.

Proven Results

Our firm has secured significant settlements and verdicts for employees across California.

Hear From Our Clients

“Working with Jeff at Ranen Khademi PC in LA was a genuinely positive experience. Although the firm is relatively new, its deep industry connections and decades of expertise rival those of larger, longer-established firms while delivering a more personalized, high-touch experience. Jeff’s extensive knowledge and network provide invaluable insights, whether you’re exploring potential legal issues or simply seeking guidance.”

“Jeff and the team at Ranen Khademi PC are the best of the best. I would highly recommend them for any employment matter, as they would be your best option to get you what you deserve. They were aggressive, very knowledgeable, transparent and beyond capable of representing me. If you want results, Jeff and team will have your back.”

“Jeff was my attorney and let me tell you that you are lucky if he takes your case. This guy is pure beastmode. I was highly selective in choosing who to partner with and right away you can tell the pro vs the amateurs. It’s really great to have someone that understands, empathizes and most importantly amplifies your voice in speaking up and fighting on your behalf. I will always be grateful for his help and I could not give a higher recommendation. Yelp only allows 5-stars max and I’d easily give him 10+.”

“During a difficult time in my life, I turned to Jeff to assist me & he took a chance on my case! This opportunity led me to meet Parisa, who played an integral role in my case's success. They communicated often with me & explained the process step by step. The support & team effort was outstanding! Everyone on the team, down to the assistant Alexandra, was pleasant & helpful. I am truly grateful to them for making such a difficult time in my life, seemingly a breeze. I would highly recommend Ranen Khademi PC for your legal matters!”

Our Process

Free Consultation

We listen to your story, discuss your concerns, and explain your rights under the law.

Case Evaluation

We thoroughly review your situation, analyze relevant facts, and determine potential claims under both California and federal law.

Negotiation or Litigation

Based on our findings, we seek a fair resolution through negotiation or prepare for trial if needed.

Support Throughout

We keep you informed, answer your questions, and provide compassionate guidance at every stage.

Contact Our California Sexual Harassment Attorneys Today

If you believe you’ve been sexually harassed or retaliated against at work, act now to protect your rights. Our attorneys are ready to review your case, explain your options, and guide you forward.

Serving clients throughout Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange County, San Diego, the Bay Area, and across California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual conduct that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment.

The two main types are quid pro quo sexual harassment and hostile work environment harassment.

It means a supervisor or person in authority offers job benefits in exchange for sexual favors or threatens negative consequences for refusal.

Unwanted advances, comments, jokes, touching, sexual images, or behavior that interferes with your ability to work safely or comfortably.

Yes. Under both California and federal law, sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination.

Yes. Sexual harassment doesn’t have to involve physical contact. Verbal comments, propositions, or jokes qualify.

Yes. Harassment at work, including events or via company communication channels, can constitute workplace harassment.

Evidence includes emails, texts, witness statements, and complaint records. Documentation and consistency are key.

You can report internally to HR, or externally to the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or the EEOC, but it is always best to consult with an attorney to adequately protect your interests.

Studies show that fewer than half formally report harassment, often due to fear of retaliation. Legal counsel can help protect you and your job.

Yes. If your employer fails to stop harassment or retaliates, you may sue to recover for emotional distress, lost wages, and more.