Sexual Harassment

Sexual Abuse Harassment Lawyer California, Child Molestation

At the Blackman Legal Group, we can help victims of sexual harassment, sexual molestation or any kind of inappropriate sexual behavior. In the work place or in schools, sexual harassment can be a terrible experience for an individual, and one that just should not happen. Sexual molestation, when the victim is an adult or a child, can be nothing short of devastating. Particularly the victim, but also friends and family members of the victim, can suffer greatly.

Our attorneys have significant experience in interpreting and construing State and Federal statutes and case law governing sexual harassment and sexual molestation in California and Arizona. We are aware of the sensitive and emotional nature of claims involving inappropriate and violent sexual behavior, and we strive to provide the best possible representation in a dignified and professional manner.

Sexual Harassment, Abuse and Molestation – Overview

Claims for sexual harassment, abuse and molestation stem from unlawful sexual conduct. If you or a loved one has been subjected to unlawful sexual conduct, you do not have to suffer in silence. You can pursue a claim under California civil law for harassment, abuse and/or molestation. Our firm has the expertise to help you confront those responsible for abusing, molesting or harassing you and the resources to help you through the difficult healing process.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is illegal. It is a form of discrimination that has been specifically prohibited under Title VII Sexual Abuse and Molestation. This law covers a range of impermissible conduct including rape, nonconsensual physical touching, and/or sexual activity with a minor by an adult or individual significantly older than the child.

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What You Need to Know If Your Child Is a Victim of Sexual Abuse

Signs and Symptoms of Abuse

Common signs of sexual abuse in children include:

• Reporting sexual abuse by a parent, caregiver or other adult
• Having more knowledge sexually than would be common or appropriate for the child’s age
• Being overly affectionate or playing in a sexual way than would not be common for a child of that age
• Having medical problems including chronic itching, pain in the genitals, venereal disease, difficulty walking
• Personality changes such as becoming insecure, clingy, withdrawn and/or isolated
• Extreme emotional reactions such as depression, self-mutilation, suicide attempts, running away, overdoses, anorexia
• Sudden loss of appetite or compulsive eating
• Regression such as thumb sucking, bed wetting, or sudden interest in previously discarded security type toys such as teddy bears or blankets
• Inability to concentrate
• Lack of trust or fear of someone the child knows well (e.g. babysitter or relative)
• Nightmares
• Fear or worry about removing clothes
• Suddenly drawing sexually explicit pictures
• Trying to be perfect or ultra good; overreacting to criticism
• Running away from home
• Becomes pregnant, particularly if the child is under the age of 14

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Complying with California’s New Reporting Requirements for Employment Related Harassment

Much has been written recently about the changes in California’s sexual harassment reporting requirements. The changes were announced in a recent case decided by the California State Supreme Court, Department of Health Services v. Superior Court.

What Happened?

The case involved Theresa V. McGinnis, who worked for the Department of Health Services (DHS). Ms. McGinnis alleged her supervisor sexually harassed her from early 1996 until late 1997. She did not report the harassment until November 1997, at which point the DHS began disciplinary procedures against her supervisor. Ms. McGinnis then sued her employer (DHS) and her supervisor for sexual harassment and sexual discrimination in violation of California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA).

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The ABC’s of Sexual Harassment Litigation

When you have been the victim of workplace sexual harassment you need to take action quickly in order to preserve your rights. You might know that there are state and federal laws against harassment, but understanding how those laws apply to your situation and where to turn for help can be confusing. The Blackman Legal Group has the experience and expertise to help you with your claim for workplace harassment. We can help you file your claim with the proper agency and, where appropriate, file a civil lawsuit on your behalf. Below, we have provided a glossary of some of the agencies and laws that generally affect claims for workplace harassment. For information on how these laws and agencies affect your claim please contact us.

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Sexual Assault and Child Sexual Abuse – Resources for Help

Whether the victim is an adult or child, sexual crimes are devastating to the victim and his/her family. Unfortunately, the truth is that the person who victimized you or your loved one has probably sexually assaulted someone in the past and will continue to engage in criminal sexual activities unless stopped. The Blackman Legal Group encourages you to report criminal sexual conduct. Such crimes can cause long lasting and severe physical, emotional, psychological and financial trauma.

There is hope. If you or a loved one has been the victim of sexual abuse, you should know that there are resources that can help you in your recovery. The attorneys of the Blackman Legal Group have the experience to assist you in understanding your legal rights and remedies. We encourage you to call us immediately if you or a loved one has been the victim of a sexual assault or sexual abuse. We have resources that can help you start to heal. In addition, we have put together the following list of agencies and programs in an effort to provide you additional resources that might aid you on your road to recovery.

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Sexual Harassment and Abuse Resource Links

California Department of Children and Family Services Website
This website provides information and links to issues related to sexual abuse of children.

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SEXUAL ASSAULT AND HARASSMENT

1 - Verdicts & settlements Blackman
2 - Verdicts & settlements McNicholas