California
Sexual Harassment Lawyer

No one should feel unsafe, intimidated, or degraded at work, but for many Californians, sexual harassment at work is a daily reality. Some sex harassment is extreme, crossing into sexual assault. Other harassment consists of unwanted comments, offensive “jokes”, as well as inappropriate touching, which can leave lasting emotional and professional harm.

Mr. Velarde has over a decade of experience helping workers stand up to workplace harassment, and demanding accountability. If you’ve been harassed by a supervisor, coworker, or even a client, you have legal rights. Let Mr. Velarde help you get the justice you deserve.

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What His Clients Say

”“I had the privilege to work with Michael Velarde, Esq. after experiencing a difficult workplace situation. From the moment I reached out to him for legal advice, he was incredibly compassionate and proactive. He kept me updated through the entire process and ensured that I understood the legal proceedings in a thoughtful and concise manner. His deep understanding of employment law comes through, with his years of experience and the results he achieves for his clients. He is a rarity in the business.”
- Kelly E.

”“I retained Mr. Velarde for a Wrongful Termination case. I found him to be reliable and trustworthy. He was compassionate when I was frustrated. He explained things when I was confused. He tolerated my bad jokes. Mr. Velarde took a great deal of time with me making sure I felt confident and reassured in my case. He was also very honest no matter what the news was. In the end, he won my case! Great attorney and human.”
- Erin F.

”“I hired Michael for a civil case and was blown away with the level of professionalism and service he displayed. He helped me secure a six figure settlement and was very attentive throughout the process. He has a good heart and truly cares.”
- Angel F.

Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Services

Everyone deserves to work in an environment free of fear and humiliation.

Mr. Velarde represents employees across California who’ve experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, whether that means explicit harassment or more subtle forms that create a hostile work environment.

Here are some of the types of cases Mr. Velarde can handle:

Hostile work environment harassment
Quid pro quo harassment
Unwanted sexual advances
Inappropriate touching
Gender-based discrimination or harassment
Same gender sex harassment
“Jokes”, comments, and other behaviors that create a hostile work environment
Retaliation for reporting harassment

Understanding Sexual Harassment in California Employment Law

California has some of the strongest protections in the country for workers who experience sexual harassment.

These rights are guaranteed under laws like the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), as well as the Constitution of the State of California.

Employers are required by these laws to take all reasonable steps to prevent such harassment from occurring, and employers incur significant liability when sexual harassment takes place.

Employers can be held liable for sexual harassment even if those employers were not aware of the harassment and had a prevention policy in place (particularly where the harassment is perpetrated by a supervisor or manager). Anyone in the workplace can commit harassment, including:

Employers
Managers and supervisors
Coworkers
Clients or customers
Contractors or other third-party business partners
Third-party business partners

Employers are legally responsible for taking action to stop harassment. Even if a supervisor or manager is not the one that is perpetrating the harassment, an employer can be held liable if they knew or should have known about the conduct and did not take appropriate preventative or corrective action.

For instance, if an employer fails to fire an employee for repeatedly sexually harassing a co-worker, a jury may find the employer liable for perpetuating a hostile work environment.

Under California law, you have the right to do the following:

Report harassment without fear of retaliation
File a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or EEOC
Seek legal action and financial compensation for your suffering
Seek punitive damages

It’s not always easy to tell if what you’re experiencing could be considered harassment.

That’s why it’s important to talk to a lawyer about your experience and the rights you have under the law.

If you feel uncomfortable at work, contact an experienced sexual harassment lawyer to learn about your options.

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How Mr. Velarde Can Help

No one should have to suffer in silence — especially not at work. Mr. Velarde has seen firsthand how sexual harassment can derail careers, damage mental health, and make victims feel powerless. His mission is to level the playing field and hold employers accountable for allowing or enabling this misconduct.

Mr. Velarde stands with workers who have been harassed, intimidated, or pushed out for speaking up. Whether you’re up against a regional business or a major corporation, Mr. Velarde will fight for your rights and your dignity.

Here’s how:

Mr. Velarde will gather the facts, review documents, and look for patterns of harassment that reveal the truth behind your situation.
Work to build compelling, evidence-backed arguments designed to show exactly how your legal rights were violated.
Whether negotiating a settlement or preparing for trial, Mr. Velarde tailors his approach to your goals and your specific case.
Mr. Velarde will treat your case with the urgency and seriousness it deserves. You’ll get direct communication, honest advice, and an attorney that’s fully committed to helping you move forward.

Sexual harassment is a violation of your rights under state and federal law. Let Mr. Velarde help you reclaim your power.

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FAQs

What counts as sexual harassment under California law?

Any severe or pervasive sexual conduct that a reasonable person would consider to be hostile, intimidating, offensive, oppressive, or abusive may qualify as harassment. Such conduct can be verbal, visual, or physical.

Can I sue even if I didn’t report the harassment right away?

Yes. While prompt reporting can help, failure to report does not prevent you from filing a legal claim. Many workers delay reporting out of fear or confusion. In California, you typically have three years to file a claim, starting from the date of the harassment (although in some instances a continuing course of harassing conduct can also open claims that go back further). However, it is important to act promptly and contact an experienced employment rights lawyer. Witness memories can fade, and more recent claims are often easier to prove.

What evidence do I need to support my claim?

Evidence that can help you prove your case can include statements from your coworkers or other witnesses, and records of complaints in the harassers employee file, as well as text messages and sometimes emails. However, be careful not to make secret audio or video recordings, as that can be illegal. If you’re not sure you have enough evidence to support your claim, don’t worry. Your own testimony of the harassment that you experienced can be the most powerful evidence of the case.

Can I recover damages for emotional distress in California?

Yes. Sexual harassment cases are primarily focused on emotional distress as the theory of damages, although sometimes lost wages become relevant as well. In some cases, you can potentially recover punitive damages as well.

Will I have to go to court?

Not necessarily. Mr. Velarde understands that going to court in a sexual harassment case can be a stressful experience. That’s why he tries his hardest to get his clients the justice they deserve at mediation, if possible. That being said, Mr. Velarde is fully prepared to go to trial if that is what your case demands.

Mr. Velarde Is An Experienced Sexual Harassment Lawyer. Contact Him Today.

You don’t have to stay silent, and you don’t have to deal with sexual harassment alone or endure the harassment any longer. Mr. Velarde is ready to fight for your rights. Contact him today to schedule a consultation.

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