There’s often a moment when things shift. A joke that crosses the line. A stare that lasts too long. A comment that makes you pause. At first, you might question your reaction—was it really that bad? But over time, the pattern becomes clear. You’re being sexually harassed at work. And now you’re asking yourself: What can I do to stop it?
If you’re in California and you’ve faced sexual harassment on the job, you’re not powerless. You have legal rights under both state and federal law. And yes, you can recover compensation. Depending on your case, the damages in a sexual harassment case may include financial remedies, emotional relief, and even systemic workplace changes.
A skilled sexual harassment attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure that nothing gets left on the table. At King & Siegel LLP, we offer free, 30-minute consultations to help you take the first step.
What Are Damages in a Sexual Harassment Case?
Under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, victims of workplace sexual harassment may be entitled to a wide range of remedies. These aren’t just symbolic victories. They are tangible forms of justice meant to restore dignity, stability, and security.
Common categories of damages in sexual harassment cases include the following:
- Lost wages—including back pay for missed work due to a hostile environment, demotion, or wrongful termination;
- Lost future earnings—if the harassment derailed your career or impacted future promotions or job prospects;
- Medical expenses—therapy, medication, or other emotional or psychological care related to your harassment;
- Pain and suffering—damages for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other emotional harm; and
- Punitive damages—additional damages to punish and deter future misconduct, if your employer acted with malice, fraud, or oppression.
These damages are more than just compensation. They aim to correct the harm and help you move forward. At King & Siegel, we know how to quantify these losses in a way that resonates with judges and juries—because justice should be concrete, not abstract.
What Are the Remedies for Sexual Harassment in California?
Legal remedies for sexual harassment aren’t limited to compensation. While financial recovery matters, so does changing the system that allowed the harassment to happen in the first place.
Potential legal remedies for sexual harassment include the following:
- Reinstatement to your job if your employer fired you or forced you out;
- Changes to workplace policies to prevent future misconduct;
- Mandatory training for staff or supervisors;
- Transfers or reassignments to a safer, more supportive environment; and
- Official findings or apologies that publicly acknowledge wrongdoing.
Legal remedies for sexual harassment may also include court orders or settlement terms that create accountability measures within the company. These are not one-size-fits-all. The best outcomes are tailored to your specific experience and goals. At King & Siegel, our advocates are prepared to listen, strategize, and fight for solutions that don’t just address the wrongs of the past but strive to create a better future.
How Do You Prove Damages in a Sexual Harassment Case?
Proving damages in a sexual harassment case requires a thoughtful combination of evidence and storytelling. Courts often look not only at documentation of harassment but how it affected your life and work overall.
To build a strong claim for damages in a sexual harassment case, you should prepare to present:
- Emails, texts, or messages that show inappropriate behavior;
- A timeline of events and changes to your employment status;
- Performance reviews or promotions that prove your merit before the harassment started;
- Witness statements from coworkers or supervisors; and
- Records of mental health treatment or medical bills.
You don’t have to collect this alone. Our attorneys can work to subpoena documents, help uncover workplace patterns, and present your case precisely and clearly. We’ve recovered tens of millions of dollars for employees like you and are prepared to fight tirelessly for the justice you deserve.
Take the First Step: Contact King & Siegel LLP Today
At King & Siegel, we are proud to solely represent employees—never employers. Our award-winning legal team—composed of graduates from Harvard, Columbia, and NYU—has a track record of positive results and accolades that speak volumes.
Every member of our firm is committed to strategic, compassionate, and effective representation. We are also proud to serve California’s Spanish-speaking community, so if you or someone you care about prefers to speak Spanish, our bilingual staff is here to help.
If you’ve suffered sexual harassment at work, you don’t need to suffer in silence. The law is on your side. Whether you’re just beginning to ask questions or are ready to hold your employer accountable, we’re here to help you pursue the damages and remedies you deserve. Reach out to us now and schedule your free 30-minute consultation.
