What To Do if You Are Experiencing Retaliation for Filing a Complaint for Sexual Harassment in Los Angeles
Know Your Rights
If you are facing retaliation after filing a sexual harassment complaint in your workplace, it is important to understand that the law is on your side. Both California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and federal laws like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act make it illegal for employers to punish employees who report sexual harassment, participate in investigations, or support others who file complaints. Retaliation can include being fired, demoted, excluded from meetings, reassigned to unfavorable tasks, or targeted with poor performance reviews. Even subtle forms of mistreatment—such as being isolated or ignored at work—can qualify as retaliation when they follow a complaint.
You have the legal right to work in a safe environment and to report misconduct without fear of punishment. If your employer takes action against you in response to your protected complaint, you may have grounds for a retaliation lawsuit.
Take Action Quickly
If you suspect that you are being retaliated against, start by keeping a clear record of what is happening. Document any changes to your job duties, schedule, pay, treatment by supervisors or coworkers, and any disciplinary actions taken after your complaint. Save emails, texts, memos, or other written communication that may show a pattern of retaliation. This evidence can be key to proving your case.
Next, speak with a Los Angeles employment attorney who has experience in sexual harassment and retaliation claims. An attorney can evaluate your situation, help you file a new complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and determine whether to proceed with a lawsuit. The sooner you act, the better your chances are of preserving important evidence and building a strong legal claim.
Retaliation can be just as damaging as the original harassment, affecting your career, income, and emotional well-being. You do not have to face it alone. Legal help is available to protect your rights, hold your employer accountable, and secure the compensation you deserve.