The conversation around sexual assault and harassment has grown exponentially. From Hollywood to Washington D.C., it seems that more people in powerful positions are being accused of this misbehavior. The #MeToo and #TimesUp movements have catapulted the demand for assailants to be held responsible more publicly in order to deter this kind of behavior in the future.
This conversation isn’t happening because there is more sexual harassment. Instead, people are feeling more safe and secure in finding someone to help them address the issue. People are finding the strength to stand up when they are feeling mistreated. Los Angeles sexual harassment attorneys can help you find your strength against those who are mistreating you.
A common assumption about sexual assault or harassment is that it is only between a man and a woman. We know that this is not always the case. In 2017 the world was shocked by the accusations of Kevin Spacey assaulting a young man. He has since been accused of three other sexual assault cases. Brendan Fraser, a famous actor who spoke out during the peak of the #metoo movement, discussed how he was sexually harassed by a man in a powerful position. He stated that the incident created an onset of anxiety and depression, which is common for those subject to these unwanted behaviors.
Another assumption about sexual harassment is that it must be physical. In January 2018, a survey found that 81% of women and 43% of men have experienced some kind of harassment or assault in their lifetime. The most common sexual harassment was verbal and not physical. For example, “cat-calling” is when a stranger shouts lewd or lascivious words to a passerby. It can also be saying inappropriate things about the way someone is dressed or how they should act.
A more pressing issue is cyber sexual harassment. This is when someone uses electronic means to send your sexually subjective material without your permission or consent. Verbal or cyber sexual harassment can lead to physical sexual harassment if the victim continues to ignore the comments. If you feel that you are or have experienced physical, verbal, or cyber sexual harassment inquiry to the Los Angeles sexual harassment attorney.
Remember, sexual harassment does not have to be an overt physical move such as groping or touching. It can be more subtle.
Is someone emailing or messaging your crude pictures without your permission or consent? Has someone prevented you from leaving an area? Does someone keep persisting that you go out with them even though you have told them no? Do you feel as if your career is dependent on keeping quiet about a sexual act? Do you feel as if your career is in jeopardy if you don’t concede to a sexual act? These are all forms of sexual harassment.
Do not let your life fall into anxiety and depression due to something that is not your fault. Find the strength to contact The Kaufman Law Firm by clicking here or calling us at 310-981-3404. Our sexual harassment attorneys in Los Angeles will strengthen your voice and ensure that this doesn’t happen to you or others again.