How Long Do You Have to File a Sexual Harassment Claim in California?
Understanding the Filing Deadline
California law gives employees a specific window of time to take legal action after experiencing sexual harassment. Under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), you generally have three years from the date of the last act of harassment to file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD), formerly known as the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). This administrative step is required before you can pursue a lawsuit in civil court.
If you decide to file with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) instead, the deadline is usually shorter, typically 300 days from the last incident. Filing with either agency triggers an investigation, and in most cases, you must obtain a Right to Sue letter before proceeding with a lawsuit.
Missing these deadlines can jeopardize your ability to seek justice, even if you have a strong case. That’s why understanding the statute of limitations is critical. These rules are strictly enforced, and failing to file in time could result in your claim being dismissed entirely.
Why It’s Important to Act Early
While the law provides a few years to take action, waiting until the last minute can make your case harder to prove. Over time, evidence may be lost, emails may be deleted, and witnesses may forget key details. The earlier you begin documenting incidents, reporting the misconduct, and seeking legal guidance, the stronger your claim will be.
An experienced Los Angeles sexual harassment attorney can help you understand which deadline applies to your situation and make sure you file your complaint correctly and on time. Acting quickly not only preserves your rights but also gives your attorney more time to investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a legal strategy tailored to your circumstances.
If you believe you have been sexually harassed at work, don’t wait. Talk to an attorney, document what happened, and start the process of filing your claim within the time limits California law allows.