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What Is Considered Sexual Harassment?

In California, sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual advance, request for sexual favors, or other verbal, physical, or visual conduct of a sexual nature that disrupts the workplace by creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. Important points to know:

  • Harassment does not have to be motivated by sexual attraction.
  • It can target someone’s gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy status, or gender expression.
  • Same-sex harassment is illegal and protected under the law.
  • Even one serious incident can be enough to qualify as unlawful sexual harassment.

Whether it happens in a corporate office, a retail store, or a tech startup, workers in Santa Barbara deserve a safe, respectful environment free from harassment.

California’s Strong Laws Protecting Workers

California leads the nation in providing some of the strongest protections against workplace sexual harassment. The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) sets strict standards that every employer must follow:

  • Mandatory harassment prevention training for employers with five or more employees.
  • Extended time limit of three years to file a harassment complaint.
  • Automatic employer liability if harassment is committed by supervisors.
  • Anti-retaliation protections for anyone who reports or participates in an investigation.

In Santa Barbara workplaces, whether public or private, employees are safeguarded by these robust laws and deserve swift action when violations occur.

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I cannot recommend Ron Bamieh and Anzac Jacobs highly enough.

I was wrongly accused of a misdemeanor charge. From the very beginning, Ron approached my case with incredible patience, empathy, and professionalism. He took the time to listen, understand my concerns, and explain every step of the legal process in a way that was clear and reass...

—Andrew C.

Exceptional skill and professionalism

Danielle De Smith handled our case against a school district in Ventura County with exceptional skill and professionalism. I initially approached the situation as a fiercely protective mother, ready to fight, but Danielle’s grace, expertise, and strategic approach proved fa...

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We worked with Atty Jacobs to help us with an issue with our loved one and things could have been so much worse if we hadn’t of had his expertise and compassion. When you’re in a situation when you need help with a loved one, not only are you desperate but you’r...

—Eleanor Torres

Bamieh & Smith were awesome and would definitely recommend.

Mr. Anzac Jacob's was one of the best Lawyer I could've been blessed with. Top to bottom , Professional, honest, caring, and he has a great heart. He did his best for me. He never made me feel like he did not care about my situation, without Mr. Jacobs and Mr. Bamieh, I think I w...

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They are very transparent and up front with you regarding your matter. Never having any experience with the matter I hired them for, they explained everything that was happening, would be happening or could happen. Meghan Sherry took on our matter and made us free welcome and nev...

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First time I met Ron he welcomed me with open arms.

His sincerity and willing to help me was shown immediately. Ron stood by my side, showed up for me and checked in on my emotional well being every step of the way. Not only is he a great lawyer but a genuine person who sees good in others and wants to help good people.
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—Brandee Herrera

Professional, honest, and confident

From my initial conversation with Ron and his team, I was put at ease by their professionalism, honesty and confidence. He clearly described the process and what I could expect in the following months. He was thorough in his preparation and in court, he was calm and calculat...

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Grateful for exceptional legal support with a better-than-expected outcome

I am so grateful to my neighbor who recommended this law firm. After being in a terrible accident where I was hit by a car on my bicycle, I wasn’t sure about contacting a lawyer, but after months and months of pain and frustration I decided to give them a call. I’m so...

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I highly recommend this law office.

From the moment I stepped in for my first consultation, I felt welcomed and reassured. The team is professional, compassionate, and truly listens to their clients. I left that first meeting with a sense of relief, knowing I was in capable and trustworthy hands. Thank you for your...

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Amazing firm.

Ron is straight to the point and will give his honest opinion on the case. Very knowledgeable team that will do their best. I am personally impressed on how they handled my case. They gave me light at the end of a tunnel that seemed endless.

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Sexual Harassment by the Numbers

Sexual harassment remains a widespread issue in California:

  • 86% of women report experiencing sexual harassment at work — 5% higher than the national average.
  • 53% of men in California have also experienced workplace harassment, 10% above the national rate.
  • LGBTQ+ employees face harassment at three times the rate of other workers.
  • Each year, 427 sexual harassment complaints are filed with the EEOC in California alone.

Santa Barbara is not immune to these alarming statistics, which highlight the urgent need for awareness and accountability.

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Our Experienced Legal Team

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Founding Attorney, Partner Ron S. Bamieh

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Danielle De Smeth

Managing Attorney, Partner Danielle De Smeth

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Jennifer Yates

Attorney & Partner Jennifer Yates

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Jason D. Frantz

Attorney Jason D. Frantz

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Anzac Jacobs

Attorney Anzac Jacobs

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Thelma Corsa

Attorney Thelma Corsa

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Meghan Sherry

Attorney Meghan Sherry

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Charlotte Krem

Attorney Charlotte Krem

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What to Do If You're Facing Sexual Harassment in Santa Barbara

If you’re experiencing harassment at work, taking the right steps early on can strengthen your case:

  1. Document Everything: Keep detailed notes of every incident, including dates, times, locations, and any witnesses.

  2. Report the Harassment: Follow your company’s internal reporting procedures as soon as possible.

  3. File a Formal Complaint: You can file with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

  4. Seek Emotional Support: Confide in trusted friends, family members, or consider professional counseling.

Remember: You have the right to a workplace free from harassment — and the right to seek help without fear of retaliation.

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Legal Options and Possible Compensation

Victims of sexual harassment in Santa Barbara may be entitled to various forms of legal compensation, including:

  • Lost income and benefits due to harassment or retaliation.
  • Damages for emotional distress and psychological suffering.
  • Punitive damages in cases of extreme misconduct.
  • Job reinstatement or promotions if your career was harmed.
  • Attorney’s fees and court costs.

Every case is different, and an experienced attorney can help you understand the full scope of what you may be entitled to recover.

Why You Need a Santa Barbara Sexual Harassment Lawyer

Facing sexual harassment is emotionally taxing — navigating the legal system shouldn’t be. A skilled employment law attorney can:

  • Assess the strengths and weaknesses of your case.
  • Help you file complaints correctly and on time.
  • Negotiate settlements with your employer.
  • Represent you in hearings, mediation, or court.
  • Ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

At Bamieh & De Smeth, PLC, we are committed to standing by your side with compassion, respect, and relentless advocacy.

Contact Bamieh & De Smeth, PLC Today

Sexual harassment has no place in Santa Barbara workplaces. If you are experiencing harassment, you don’t have to deal with it alone. At Bamieh & De Smeth, PLC, our Santa Barbara sexual harassment lawyers are here to listen, answer your questions, and fight for your rights.

Call us today at (805) 643-5555 for a free, confidential consultation. Let’s work together to protect your future and make your workplace safer for everyone.

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