How to Report Workplace Sexual Harassment in Los Angeles: Step-by-Step Legal Process (2025)
Sexual harassment in the workplace can be intimidating, confusing, and deeply personal. But in Los Angeles, employees are empowered by strong legal protections — both at the state and city level — that allow you to report misconduct safely and effectively.
This 2025 guide walks you through the exact steps to report sexual harassment at work in Los Angeles, from building your case to filing official complaints and understanding your rights along the way.
Why Reporting Sexual Harassment Matters in Los Angeles
Reporting isn’t just a formality — it’s your first line of legal protection. When you report harassment:
• You create a formal record of the abuse
• You give your employer an opportunity to correct the problem
• You preserve your right to take legal action later, if necessary
Under both California FEHA and Los Angeles’ Civil + Human Rights Ordinance, employers are legally required to respond to complaints and protect you from retaliation.
Step 1: Recognize Harassment Under Los Angeles Law
Before reporting, make sure the behavior fits the legal definition of sexual harassment. In LA, this includes:
• Unwanted sexual advances or comments
• Suggestive emails, texts, or images
• Physical contact like touching or groping
• Leering, catcalling, or sexual jokes
• Offering promotions or perks in exchange for sexual favors
Even one serious incident — or a pattern of repeated, offensive behavior — can qualify.
Step 2: Document the Harassment Immediately
Documentation is your strongest weapon. Here’s what to do:
• Write down every incident: date, time, location, who was involved, what was said or done
• Save screenshots of messages, emails, or photos
• Note if anyone witnessed the behavior
• Keep a private record (on your phone, personal email, or journal — not your work computer)
The more detailed your documentation, the easier it is to support your claim.
Step 3: Report Internally to HR or Management
If it’s safe to do so, report the harassment to:
• Your HR department
• Your direct supervisor
• A manager in another department
What to include in your report:
• A clear statement of what happened
• Dates, names, and evidence
• A request for a formal investigation
Pro tip: Submit the report in writing (email is best), and keep a copy for yourself.
Step 4: File an External Complaint if Needed
If your company:
• Ignores your complaint
• Retaliates against you
• Fails to stop the harassment
Then file with one of these official agencies:
| Agency | What It Does | File Online | Deadline |
| California Civil Rights Department (CRD) | Enforces CA anti-harassment law (formerly DFEH). | calcivilrights.ca.gov | 3 yrs to file |
| EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) | Federal claims under Title VII | eeoc.gov | 300 days |
| Los Angeles CHRED | City-specific cases, outreach | civilandhumanrights.lacity.org |
Step 5: Understand the Investigation Process
Once you report:
• The employer or agency will conduct an investigation
• This may include interviews, document review, and follow-up meetings
• If found valid, you may be offered mediation or a right-to-sue letter
Stay involved and keep tracking any new incidents — especially retaliation.
Step 6: Know Your Retaliation Protections in LA
It is illegal to be punished for reporting sexual harassment. Retaliation includes:
• Being fired, demoted, or denied hours
• Excluded from meetings or promotions
• Intimidated by coworkers or management
If retaliation occurs, report it separately. It can be the basis for a wrongful termination or retaliation lawsuit.
Where to File a Sexual Harassment Complaint in Los Angeles
1. California Civil Rights Department (CRD)
Website: calcivilrights.ca.gov
Phone: 800-884-1684
2. EEOC Los Angeles District Office
Website: eeoc.gov
Phone: 800-669-4000
3. Los Angeles CHRED (Civil + Human Rights and Equity Department)
Website: civilandhumanrights.lacity.org
Phone: (213) 978-1845
What Happens After You File a Report?
Investigation is launched (internal or agency-based)
• If violations are confirmed, employer may face:
• Corrective action
• Financial penalties
• Court orders
If unresolved or mishandled, you can request a Right-to-Sue letter and proceed with a civil lawsuit.
What If HR Ignores Your Sexual Harassment Complaint?
Don’t wait. You can:
• Escalate to upper management
• File directly with CRD or CHRED
• Call a Los Angeles employment lawyer to explore legal action
Employers that ignore harassment risk being held legally and financially liable.
Empowerment Through the Legal Process
If you’ve been sexually harassed at work in Los Angeles, you have rights — and you have options. The key is taking action:
• Recognize and document the behavior
• Report it through proper channels
• Protect yourself against retaliation
With strong laws on your side and multiple agencies ready to help, you don’t have to face it alone.
