Experiencing behaviors in the workplace that a reasonable person finds emotionally distressing is harassment. Co-workers or employers may use targeted behavior against you because of your religion. Take these steps to protect against workplace harassment in Orange County.
Document the Harassing Behavior
Let the person harassing you know their behavior is inappropriate if you feel safe doing so. Keep a written account of the harassment you experience due to your religious beliefs. Documentation should begin immediately and include the following details:
- Date and time of the incident
- An account of the harassing actions by a coworker or employer
- Names and contact information of eyewitnesses to the behavior
Retain any emails you exchange with an employer or co-worker that contain evidence of harassment. These may include off-handed comments, evaluations, demotions, or actions by an employer directed at you as a form of harassment. Sadly, many harassers do not recognize their behaviors as wrong or unacceptable, but will stop when you directly address the behavior.
Follow Company Reporting Procedures
State law requires employers to develop effective programs that combat harassment in the workplace. An investigation into a report of harassment based on religion should be fair. An employer or department responsible for investigating should act immediately to stop further incidents.
Newer laws now allow employers to file a temporary restraining order to protect you from harassment. The law prevents the harasser from further intimidating you in any way. An employer’s failure to act may require you to take legal action against them or the person harassing you.
File a Complaint With a Governmental Agency
California’s strict anti-harassment and discrimination laws may provide more protection than federal laws. However, you may want to file a discrimination complaint with a state and federal agency when an employer in California fails to end religious harassment. In most cases, state departments will file a claim for you with a federal agency when the harassment violates state and federal law.
Before filing a complaint, discuss religious harassment with an Orange County harassment lawyer. Determining the strength of your claim provides insight into your legal options. First, filing a complaint with the California Department of Civil Rights is recommended.
The Civil Rights Department (DRD) may take legal action for you. You may also have the right to forego the complaint process and take a claim to court. You must request a Right to Sue notice from them to do so.
Remain Aware of Time Limits for Filing a Complaint or Legal Action for Harassment
Strict time limits apply to how long you can legally act against someone for religious harassment. Each governmental agency determines the deadlines for filing a complaint or legal action. Waiting to discuss your claim with an employee rights advocate in California can prevent you from seeking compensation for your damages.
Determine Your Damages Resulting From Religious Harassment in California
A thorough evaluation of your damages is critical. Recovering the costs of finding new employment can help financially sustain you when you are unable to remain in your current workplace.
Reclaiming lost benefits, emotional costs, and other damages to you may be possible through legal action. A free case evaluation can help you determine the most beneficial way forward to combat religious harassment in the workplace in California.