How Much Compensation Can You Get for Sexual Harassment in Orange County, CA?

Sexual harassment is an unfortunately pervasive issue across the United States, and every state enforces rules to combat this problem. At the federal level, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces anti-harassment and anti-discrimination laws and investigates claims in US workplaces.

Orange County is known as one of the most beautiful parts of Southern California. There are countless attractions for tourists and locals alike, and the economy of Orange County thrives thanks to high-end retail, professional services, logistics, and transportation. Sexual harassment can happen in any workplace. It’s possible to secure compensation if you experience this, but how much compensation can you get for sexual harassment in Orange County, CA?

How Much Compensation Can You Get for Sexual Harassment in Orange County, CA?

Sexual harassment takes many forms, and if you encounter such behavior at work, it is important to report the situation to your employer right away. All companies in California are required to have anti-harassment policies in place and must attempt to resolve any incidents that occur in the workplace. However, internal conflict resolution channels may not help you overcome such a situation, in which case, you need to prepare a civil suit.

Between 2018 and 2021, the EEOC processed more than 98,000 harassment cases in the United States, and 27,291 of these cases alleged sexual harassment. During those three years, the EEOC recovered nearly $300 million in compensation for victims of sexual harassment. More than 8,100 individuals received compensation for these efforts.

Before you can collect compensation for sexual harassment in Orange County, you will need to file a claim with the EEOC. They will investigate and determine whether harassment occurred. In some cases, the EEOC issues Notices of Right to Sue to affected victims, allowing them to proceed with civil lawsuits, and in other cases, the EEOC initiates legal action directly against those responsible.

If you succeed with a sexual harassment case in Orange County, it is possible to recover several forms of compensation for economic and non-economic damages. An experienced Orange County sexual harassment lawyer can be an invaluable asset for not only building your case but also for maximizing your recovery.

Damages in a Sexual Harassment Case

It’s possible for the EEOC and/or the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) to play important roles in a sexual harassment case, but an experienced attorney can be invaluable for the help they can provide when it comes to maximizing your recovery. If you are successful with your civil suit, it’s possible to recover compensation for economic and non-economic damages:

• You could receive compensation for lost income and benefits if you were wrongfully terminated or if you were forced to leave your job due to a hostile work environment created by sexual harassment.
• It’s possible that the defendant could be forced to pay your legal expenses, effectively eliminating the cost of pursuing your case.
• You also have the right to receive pain and suffering compensation to account for the physical pain and psychological distress the defendant caused.
• Many plaintiffs receive liquidated damages in addition to the economic and non-economic damages they seek in their cases. Your attorney can explain whether this is likely to come into play for your case.

Ultimately, a successful sexual harassment case could potentially yield substantial compensation, but you will need an experienced attorney on your side to have the greatest chance of success with your case. Reach out to the Diefer Law Group as quickly as possible to learn about the legal services we provide and how we can help you win your case.

FAQs

Q: How Much Is a Sexual Harassment Case Worth in Orange County?

A: The potential value of a sexual harassment case in Orange County depends on the details of your case. You may have grounds to claim compensation for lost income and benefits if you lost your job or were forced to quit because of the harassment. You could also seek compensation for other expenses like transportation costs and legal fees. Additionally, it’s possible to recover compensation for pain and suffering.

Q: Will the Defendant Go to Jail for Committing Sexual Harassment?

A: It is possible for a defendant to go to jail for committing sexual harassment if their behavior reaches the point of physical contact or assault. Common penalties for sexual harassment include heavy fines, but if the defendant engaged in sexual assault or threatened the victim, they could face criminal prosecution. It’s also possible for both the specific defendant and the employer to face penalties for sexual harassment in the workplace.

Q: How Long Does It Take to Settle a Sexual Harassment Lawsuit in Orange County?

A: The time it could take to settle a sexual harassment lawsuit in Orange County will depend on various factors. You will need to submit a claim to the EEOC and/or CRD, and once your claim is approved, you can proceed with the civil suit. Many of these cases end with settlement negotiations, and this could take several weeks or a few months to conclude. If litigation is necessary, it will take much longer.

Q: How Is Pain and Suffering Compensation Calculated in Orange County?

A: In Orange County, pain and suffering compensation is usually calculated based on the severity of the harm done to the plaintiff. Their attorney is likely to use their total economic damages as a benchmark, multiplying this amount by a factor that reflects the severity of the experience. In a sexual harassment case, the victim has the right to seek compensation for the mental anguish and emotional distress they suffered because of the defendant’s actions.

Q: Why Should I Hire an Orange County Sexual Harassment Lawyer?

A: You should hire an Orange County sexual harassment lawyer to have the greatest chance of success with your case. The right attorney can provide comprehensive legal support for all aspects of your case, from filing a claim with the EEOC or CRD to determining the full scope of the compensation you can claim and negotiating a settlement with the defendant. You’re more likely to win your case and maximize your recovery with an attorney representing you.

Contact an Experienced Sexual Harassment Attorney Today

The team at the Diefer Law Group has successfully resolved many sexual harassment cases for clients in Orange County and obtained substantial case awards. We know you are likely to have many questions about your case, including what type of compensation you can expect if you are successful. With our help, you can feel more confident, and we will do everything we can to maximize your recovery. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our team.