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Sexual harassment includes requests for sexual favors, unwanted sexual advances, and various disparaging insults or sexual remarks and intrusions. The three general types of sexual harassment are categorized as:

• Verbal/written: This category includes (but is not limited to) verbal sexual comments whether delivered as “complementary” or insulting, emails/texts sent to or about you, written or printed notes left in personal or common areas, and online posts whether they’re meant for your eyes or not.
• Visual: Displaying pictures or posters of a sexual nature, showing sexual texts or photos, watching pornographic material, drawing sexual or violent images, and gesturing lewdly are all examples of non-verbal, visual forms of harassment.
• Physical: Before crossing into assault, physical sexual harassment could mean unwanted touching like hugs or shoulder rubs, close hovering in your personal space, and/or playing music that is sexually suggestive or derogatory.

These forms of sexual misconduct can often overlap or “intersect” with other forms of harassment based on gender identity, race, religion, disability, cultural heritage or immigration status, age discrimination, and sexual orientation.

Another unique form of harassment is known as “quid pro quo” or “this for that” ultimatums and insinuations — these occur when an authority figure (a boss, teacher, guardian, religious leader, cop, or doctor) demands sexual compliance in exchange for something you want, need, or rightfully deserve.

Your first priority is to get to a safe place where you feel protected. Next, calling a loved one for support or a survivor hotline can provide immediate comfort, reassurance, and crucial guidance. After that, you may need:

• Medical care if you’ve been assaulted for treatment of physical wounds, preventative medications for possible sexually-transmitted infections, and evidence gathering.
• Legal advocacy to reassure you of your rights to allow or refuse exams/questioning, actions you can take to protect yourself (like restraining orders), and advice on what may be important evidence to preserve should you choose to pursue a lawsuit later.
• Professional counseling whether psychological, religious, or group-oriented — it’s important to stay connected with others, but also essential that your boundaries are maintained. Trained therapists, counselors, and designated confidantes understand how to respect your privacy and comfort levels while providing support and oversight for your safety.

There are people within reach who are waiting to help you, including here at The Pride Law Firm. We’ve dedicated our careers and our callings to standing beside the injured and wronged to help them seek justice.

If you're uncertain about whether your experience qualifies as sexual assault or harassment, it's essential to seek guidance from a knowledgeable legal professional. Our San Diego sexual harassment attorneys can help you understand your rights, evaluate your situation, and determine the appropriate steps to take.

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a sexual assault lawsuit varies depending on the circumstances of the case. For example, those over 18 years of age may file a claim within 10 years of the assault, or 3 years from realizing injury due to the assault (such as an STD diagnosis, or experiencing PTSD symptoms).

It’s essential to consult with a local San Diego sexual harassment lawyer promptly to ensure you understand the specific time limits that apply to your situation.

If you've experienced sexual assault or harassment in the workplace, you have several legal options available to you. These may include filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), pursuing a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator and/or your employer, and seeking other forms of legal recourse.

An experienced sexual harassment attorney in San Diego can help you explore these options and determine the best course of action.