Legal Question in Sexual Harassment in California

Can I sue my former employer for a co-worker harassing me?

I worked in an office with a woman who repeatedly verbally harassed me. She called me very offensive names and threatened me physically on several occasions. My employer saw this but refused to do anything formally. He said my point of view was wrong. I finally quit because I could take it anymore. In addition, my boss often made inappropriate sexual remarks at any opportunity. He took the office secretary to Mexico, whree she said they slept together. She also would offer to ''sit on his face'' when she screwed up at work. My former boss hit on anything with boobs and was constantly trying to look down my shirt. Do I have any grounds for a harassment lawsuit, or am I just crazy.


Asked on 4/04/06, 8:06 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Alden Knisbacher knisbacher law offices

Re: Can I sue my former employer for a co-worker harassing me?

There is a recent California Supreme Court case in which the Court ruled that a boss who has a sexual relationship with one of his employees can be sued for discrimination by the other women if he treats them worse than the woman he is in a relationship with.

Also, a boss constantly looking down your blouse is harassing you on the basis of sex.

You haven't given a whole lot of details, but it sounds like you may have grounds for a lawsuit.

Generally, you have one year to file from the date of the harassing incident; two years to file a lawsuit from the date of termination. . . Given your facts, I would use the one year limit, as a good basis - you should not wait too long to look for attorneys.

Good luck.

Read more
Answered on 4/13/06, 12:24 pm
ARMAN MOHEBAN LAW OFFICES OF ARMAN MOHEBAN

Re: Can I sue my former employer for a co-worker harassing me?

I NEED MORE FACTS TO EVALUATE YOUR CASE. IF YOU ARE IN THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA AREA, CALL ME AT 213.388.7070 TO DISCUSS YOUR CASE.

Read more
Answered on 4/13/06, 2:14 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Can I sue my former employer for a co-worker harassing me?

You have described a classic case of sexually hostile environment, which violates the discrimination statutes. Proof is required, obviously, which could come from co-workers past or present. Feel free to contact me if iterested in discussing.

Read more
Answered on 4/13/06, 8:39 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Sexual Harassment Law questions and answers in California