Dealing with sexual harassment at work is one of the most difficult and traumatizing experiences anyone can go through. We’ve seen how it affects people—not just professionally, but emotionally and mentally too.
And if you’re reading this, chances are you or someone you care about is going through it.
Let me walk you through what you need to know and where to turn for help—specifically, how top San Jose attorneys can make a difference.
What Is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment isn’t always obvious. It can be subtle or out in the open.
Sometimes it’s jokes. Other times, it’s someone in power crossing boundaries.
Let’s break it down into two main types:
A. Quid Pro Quo
This is when a boss or manager asks for sexual favors in return for a work-related advantage, be it job hiring, promotion, or even to keep your position.
B. Hostile Work Environment
This involves repeated comments, gestures, or behaviors that make the workplace feel unsafe or uncomfortable. It could be from a coworker, manager, or even a client.
Some examples include:
- Unwanted touching
- Lewd jokes or comments
- Inappropriate pictures or texts
- Threats or retaliation for saying “no”
- Repeated staring or leering
If you’re unsure whether something you experienced counts as harassment, that’s okay. Talking to a lawyer can help clear things up.
Why It’s So Important to Speak to a Lawyer
You might be wondering, “Do I really need a lawyer?”
Here’s why we say YES.
- They know the law inside and out. California has strong laws like the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) that protect you. But you need someone who knows how to use those laws for your case.
- They deal with tough companies and HR teams. It’s hard to fight back on your own—especially if you’re worried about losing your job.
- You might be entitled to compensation. That includes lost wages, emotional stress, and sometimes even punitive damages if the company knew and did nothing.
Hiring a specialized sexual harassment attorney can mean the difference between being silenced and getting justice.
What to Look for in a Sexual Harassment Attorney
When you’re looking for a lawyer, not just anyone will do.
Here’s what I’d recommend keeping an eye out for:
| Criteria | Why It Matters |
| Proven case results | Shows they know how to win and negotiate settlements |
| Great client reviews | Gives you insight into how they treat people |
| Focus on employment law | You want someone who handles harassment cases regularly |
| Confidential and compassionate | These cases are personal—you need someone you can trust |
Top San Jose Sexual Harassment Attorneys: Winer, Burritt, Scott, Jacobs, and Associates
Now, let’s talk about a firm that stands out in San Jose—Winer, Burritt, Scott & Jacobs, LLP.
These folks are known across California for helping people just like you. Their team has more than 60 years of combined experience in employment law and has awarded over $225 million in sexual harassment claims for their clients.
Why We Recommend Them
- They specialize in sexual harassment and discrimination cases.
- They offer free consultations—which means you can talk to them without spending a dime upfront.
- You don’t pay unless they win your case. That’s a big deal.
What To Do If You’re Facing Harassment
If you’re going through this right now, here’s a simple list of steps you can take:
- Document it: Take detailed notes every time something happens. Include dates, times, what was said or done, and any witnesses.
- Report it to HR (only if it feels safe): This step can be tricky. If you’re worried about retaliation, it is best to talk to a lawyer first.
- Contact an attorney: Don’t wait! A good lawyer can guide you on reporting and protecting your rights from day one.
- File a complaint: Your lawyer can help you file with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or California’s Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH).
Final Thoughts
Sexual harassment is hard to talk about. It’s confusing. It’s scary. And it’s deeply unfair.
But I want you to know this: you’re not alone.
You have rights. And experienced attorneys in San Jose—like the team at Winer, Burritt, Scott & Jacobs—are ready to help you fight for those rights.
If you’ve been mistreated at work, you don’t have to stay silent. It counts whether it was one incident or a pattern going on for months. You matter.
Take that first step. Talk to someone who understands the law and is ready to stand beside you.
Need Help?
Reach out to Winer, Burritt, Scott & Jacobs, LLP in San Jose:
(510) 277-3751
www.wmlawyers.com
They offer free, private consultations—and they’ll help you figure out your next move.
FAQs
What if the harassment only happened once?
Even one incident can be enough—especially if it’s something serious like assault or a quid pro quo situation.
What if I don’t have solid proof—just my word?
That’s more common than you might think. Your word does matter, and lawyers know how to build a case based on testimony, patterns, and available evidence (like emails, texts, or witnesses).
What if it was just jokes or comments?
Repeated comments or jokes that make the workplace uncomfortable can count as harassment. It doesn’t have to be physical.
Can I lose my job for reporting?
Retaliation is illegal. Your employer can be held responsible if you’re fired or punished for speaking up.
Can I file a lawsuit while still working at the company?
Yes, you can. And you’re legally protected from retaliation. Some people choose to stay employed during the legal process, while others decide to leave.
How long do I have to file a sexual harassment complaint?
In California, you usually have three years to file a sexual harassment complaint or legal case with the DFEH. However, timelines can vary, so it’s best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.
Can I still take legal action if the harassment happened long ago?
Possibly. It depends on when it happened and how long it took to discover the impact. Some exceptions can extend the time limit, especially in cases involving trauma or fear of retaliation.
How much does it cost to hire a sexual harassment lawyer?
Most sexual harassment attorneys work based on a contingency fee. That means you don’t pay anything unless they win your case. Always ask about fees during the free consultation so there are no surprises.
What kind of compensation could I receive?
It depends on the case, but here are some examples:
- Lost wages if you were fired or demoted
- Medical expenses (like therapy costs)
- Emotional distress damages
- Punitive damages if the employer acted especially badly
Will my case be made public?
Many cases settle out of court and remain confidential. If privacy is important to you, be sure to mention that to your attorney upfront—they’ll do everything they can to protect your identity and keep your information private.
