Sacramento Lawyers Handle Hostile Work Environment Claims
California attorneys litigate cases of severe or pervasive misconduct
Personal characteristics such as race, gender, age or religion should not make anyone the subject of workplace jokes or bullying. When such misconduct is severe or pervasive, victims may be able to seek relief through a hostile work environment claim. From our headquarters in Sacramento and locations throughout the state, Mastagni Holstedt, APC represents mistreated employees in lawsuits against employers who fail to honor the law.
Advocates assist employees facing mistreatment because of who they are
If you face harassment based on certain personal attributes, you might be entitled to relief under federal or state discrimination laws. It’s important to remember that California employment law includes some protections not provided by federal statutes. In a free initial consultation, we’ll give you all of the information you need regarding a potential hostile work environment action, including advice on:
- Protected groups — State statutes prevent discrimination based on race, religion, sex, disability, age, medical condition and military or veteran status. California extends protection even further than federal law, prohibiting mistreatment due to sexual orientation and gender identity.
- Types of offensive conduct — Every person and situation is unique and certain behaviors that might not seem offensive in one instance could be extremely disturbing and distracting in another. Actionable misconduct could include offensive comments, jokes, photos, images, gestures, e-mails or other differential treatment of certain groups. The offender does not have to be a supervisor but may be a co-worker or even a non-employee who is frequently in the workplace.
- Potential remedies — California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act allows hostile work environment victims to collect monetary compensation in certain instances. Other types of remedies, such as retraining or injunctive relief, might be available. Usually, the place to start is by notifying a supervisor of the problem. Should your employer fail to take corrective action, an administrative complaint can be filed with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing, the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or both.
No one should have to suffer just so they can earn a living. We’ll work promptly to stop hostile treatment and seek compensation for past harm whenever possible.
Contact a California lawyer for assistance with a hostile work environment case
Mastagni Holstedt, APC advocates for employees who have faced a hostile work environment because of personal characteristics that are protected under the law. To schedule a free initial consultation, please call or contact us online. With offices in Sacramento, Rancho Cucamonga, Pleasanton and Redwood City, Mastagni Holstedt, APC serves clients throughout California.