Workplace harassment, discrimination, and retaliation

Sexual harassment, discrimination, failure to accommodate, and retaliation are unfortunately still problems of the modern work environment. California and Federal law protect against such conduct and provide remedies for violation of various statutes.  Remedies include damages, interest, statutory penalties, and/or punitive damages.  However, there are unique administrative procedures that must be followed to fully protect an injured party’s rights.  Failure to follow those specific administrative procedures, and in a timely manner, could prohibit a legitimate complaint.  Employers should be knowledgeable about the various laws within the state and federal systems so that it does not, in ignorance or otherwise, violate any such laws.  Employers should have written policies in place to protect its employees and the work environment.  Likewise, employees should also know their rights.  It is a complex system of laws, therefore, when selecting an attorney in an employment related matter, investigate the experience level of that attorney.  Besides attorneys, state and federal agencies can also provide assistance to employers and employees navigating the plethora of employment related laws.  The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) are government agencies involved in the enforcement of employment activities.