Employee Rights
Hostile Work Environment
Creating a Safer and Healthier Workplace Environment
No one should have to endure abuse just to keep a paycheck. At Michael Yerzinkyan Law, we represent employees across Southern and Central California who are trapped in a hostile work environment created by harassment, intimidation, or discrimination.
Under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), a hostile work environment is a form of unlawful harassment. It exists when an employee is subjected to unwelcome conduct based on a protected characteristic such as race, sex, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability, or sexual orientation, and that conduct is severe or pervasive enough to alter the conditions of employment and create an abusive atmosphere. A single serious incident or a steady pattern of slurs, threats, offensive jokes, or unwanted advances can qualify. Employers are strictly liable for harassment by supervisors, and they are liable for harassment by coworkers or non-employees when they knew or should have known about it and failed to take immediate corrective action. Our attorneys build a detailed record of the conduct, the employer’s knowledge, and its response.
Employees who prove a hostile work environment may recover a meaningful measure of damages, including lost wages and benefits, compensation for emotional distress, and punitive damages where the employer acted with malice or reckless indifference. Prevailing employees may also recover attorney’s fees and costs, and courts can order injunctive relief to stop the misconduct. Michael Yerzinkyan Law offers a free, confidential consultation so you can protect your rights and your dignity at work.
If you need any help, please feel free to contact us. We will get back to you within 1 business day. Or if you’re in a hurry, just call us now.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What legally qualifies as a hostile work environment?
A hostile work environment exists when unwelcome conduct based on a protected characteristic is severe or pervasive enough to alter your working conditions. Michael Yerzinkyan Law can help evaluate whether your workplace situation meets this legal standard.
Does the conduct have to be sexual in nature to count?
No. Hostile work environment claims can be based on race, age, disability, religion, or other protected characteristics, not just sexual harassment. Michael Yerzinkyan Law can review the specifics of your situation.
What should I do if I'm experiencing a hostile work environment?
Document specific incidents with dates and witnesses, report the conduct through appropriate channels if safe to do so, and consult Michael Yerzinkyan Law to discuss your legal options.
What compensation may be available in a hostile work environment case?
You may be entitled to damages for emotional distress, lost wages, and in some cases punitive damages. Michael Yerzinkyan Law can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.