Federal Sexual Harassment Laws: What Employees Need to Know
Federal sexual harassment laws establish the foundation for workplace protections across the United States, ensuring that employees have the right to a safe and harassment-free work environment. While California provides stronger state-level protections, federal laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and EEOC regulations set nationwide standards that employers must follow. If you are experiencing sexual harassment in Los Angeles, you may have legal options under both state and federal law.
Understanding Your Case
Miracle Mile Law Group Federal Sexual Harassment Laws & Protections: Caitlyn Handy, Esq.
“Federal law sets the foundation for protecting employees from sexual harassment, but too often those rights are ignored by employers. At Miracle Mile Law Group, we make sure those protections are enforced and that victims get the justice they deserve.”
What Federal Law Provides the Basis for Protections Against Sexual Harassment?
The Civil Rights Act of 1964, specifically Title VII, is the primary federal law that prohibits sexual harassment and discrimination based on sex in the workplace. Enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), this law applies to employers with 15 or more employees and protects workers from both quid pro quo sexual harassment and hostile work environment harassment.
Key Protections Under Title VII:
- Prohibits workplace sexual harassment by supervisors, coworkers, and clients.
- Covers all employees, including full-time, part-time, and temporary workers.
- Protects against employer retaliation for reporting harassment or participating in investigations.
- Requires employers to investigate complaints and take corrective action.
- Applies to all workplaces with 15 or more employees, including private businesses and government agencies.
Title VII establishes the minimum legal standard for sexual harassment cases nationwide, though states like California provide additional protections under state law.
What is the Federal Law on Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment is considered a form of unlawful workplace discrimination under federal law. The EEOC defines sexual harassment as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
- A person’s job, pay, or employment status is conditioned on accepting sexual advances (quid pro quo harassment).
- Unwanted sexual conduct is severe or pervasive enough to create a hostile work environment.
Examples of workplace sexual harassment include:
- Unwanted touching, comments, or explicit jokes.
Repeated requests for dates after being told no. - Sexual advances from supervisors in exchange for job benefits.
- Threats of termination for refusing sexual favors.
- Displaying offensive materials or engaging in suggestive behavior.
If you experience any of these behaviors, you have the right to file a complaint under federal law and seek legal action against your employer.
Employees in Los Angeles: Protections from Federal Laws and Regulations
Los Angeles employees are protected by both federal and California laws. While California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) provides broader protections, federal law still plays a key role in preventing sexual harassment and protecting workers.
How Federal Laws Protect Los Angeles Employees:
- Employees can file a complaint with the EEOC if they work for an employer with 15 or more employees.
- Federal law prohibits retaliation, meaning your employer cannot fire or punish you for reporting harassment.
- Title VII applies to federal employees, offering protections beyond California law.
- Federal lawsuits allow employees to seek damages, including lost wages and emotional distress.
While California law provides additional safeguards, federal laws ensure that Los Angeles employees working for large employers, government agencies, or companies operating across multiple states still have protection from sexual harassment.
Hiring Miracle Mile Law Group for Building Your Case and Representing You
If you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, having a skilled legal team on your side is critical. At Miracle Mile Law Group, we only represent employees, never employers, and fight to hold companies accountable for workplace misconduct.
How We Help Employees Pursue Federal Sexual Harassment Claims:
- Assess your case: We evaluate whether you should file under federal, state, or both legal protections.
- File EEOC complaints: We guide you through the federal complaint process and ensure deadlines are met.
- Negotiate with employers: Many cases settle before trial, allowing victims to recover compensation quickly.
- Take your case to court if necessary: If your employer refuses to take responsibility, we will aggressively fight for your rights in federal court.
Why Choose Miracle Mile Law Group?
- Dedicated Employee Representation: We never represent employers, only employees.
- Proven Track Record: We have successfully handled hundreds of sexual harassment cases in Los Angeles.
- No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, you pay nothing unless we win.
If you have been sexually harassed at work, contact Miracle Mile Law Group today for a free consultation and take the first step toward holding your employer accountable.
Our attorneys represent employees who have experienced workplace sexual harassment, including unwanted advances, inappropriate conduct, and retaliation for reporting misconduct. We fight to hold employers accountable and secure justice for victims through legal action.
Quid pro quo harassment happens when a supervisor or employer demands sexual favors in exchange for job benefits like promotions or raises. It is an abuse of power and illegal under California and federal law. Employees who face retaliation for refusing advances have the right to take legal action.
Employers are responsible for preventing and addressing workplace sexual harassment. They can be held liable if they ignore complaints or allow a hostile work environment. Failure to act can result in legal consequences and compensation for victims.
A hostile work environment happens when repeated harassment creates an intimidating or offensive workplace. This includes inappropriate comments, unwanted advances, or sexual jokes. Employers must prevent and address these conditions, and employees have the right to take legal action.
Work With a Top-Rated Los Angeles Sexual Harassment Attorney to Fight for Justice
- Experienced Trial Attorneys Who Win Cases: We are aggressive litigators prepared to take your case to court if your employer refuses to settle.
- Dedicated to Employee Rights in Los Angeles: We exclusively represent employees, never corporations, ensuring your best interests come first.
- No Upfront Fees and No Cost Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing out of pocket, and we only get paid if we successfully win your case.
Have Questions? Call us directly at (866) 395-6077 to speak with our sexual harassment attorneys
Free Consultations for Sexual Harassment Cases in Los Angeles
Contact Miracle Mile Law Group today to talk about your case with an experienced sexual harassment attorney.