What to Expect During a Sexual Harassment Investigation in Los Angeles
If you’ve reported sexual harassment at work in Los Angeles, your next question is likely: What happens
now?
Whether your complaint was made to your employer, the California Civil Rights Department (CRD), or
the Los Angeles Civil + Human Rights and Equity Department (CHRED), the investigation process
follows a standard set of steps—designed to determine whether harassment occurred, and whether legal or
disciplinary action is appropriate.
This guide explains what you can expect, what rights you have, and how to protect yourself during
every stage of a harassment investigation in LA.
Who Conducts Sexual Harassment Investigations in Los Angeles?
Investigations may be handled by:
• Your company’s HR department or legal team
• An external investigator hired by your employer
• A state agency (CRD)
• A local agency (CHRED, if the complaint involves LA City employers or businesses)
Regardless of who leads the process, California and Los Angeles law require the investigation to be:
• Prompt
• Thorough
• Impartial
Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Harassment Investigation in LA
✅ Step 1: Initial Complaint Review
Once you file your complaint (internally or with CRD/CHRED):
• An intake team reviews the basic facts
• They determine if the complaint qualifies under harassment law
• You may be contacted for clarification or additional information
✅ Step 2: Notification of Parties
The alleged harasser and your employer (if external) will be notified. They’ll be informed that:
• A complaint has been filed
• An investigation is underway
• Retaliation is strictly prohibited
✅ Step 3: Interviews and Evidence Collection
The investigator will:
• Interview you, the accused, and any witnesses
• Review emails, texts, photos, videos, HR records, etc.
• Analyze past complaints or patterns of behavior
You may be asked to:
• Recount specific incidents
• Provide a timeline of events
• Turn over supporting documentation
Tip: Stay calm, factual, and focused on what happened—not what you think the intent was.
✅ Step 4: Interim Protections
Your employer (or the agency) may take temporary steps to protect you during the investigation,
including:
• Reassigning the harasser
• Changing your schedule or work location (with your consent)
• Offering remote work options
If you’re punished during this phase (cut shifts, isolation, verbal abuse), report it immediately as possible
retaliation.
✅ Step 5: Findings and Outcome
Once all evidence is reviewed:
• A report is written with findings of fact
• The investigator determines if policy or law was violated
• The employer or agency decides on next steps (discipline, training, settlement, etc.)
You will typically receive a summary of the findings, although full reports may be confidential.
What Are Possible Outcomes of the Investigation?
• Substantiated: Harassment is confirmed. The employer may issue a warning, terminate the
harasser, or offer a settlement.
• Unsubstantiated: Not enough evidence to confirm harassment, but this doesn’t mean it didn’t
happen.
• Inconclusive: Conflicting evidence, no clear result. You may still pursue a civil lawsuit.
If your employer fails to act after a substantiated finding, you may have grounds to sue under California
law.
How Long Do Investigations Take in Los Angeles?
Typical timeline: 4 to 12 weeks, depending on:
• Complexity of the complaint
• Number of witnesses
• Availability of evidence
• Whether the case is internal or agency-led
CRD or CHRED investigations may take longer—especially if there’s a backlog.
Do You Need a Lawyer During the Investigation?
You’re not required to have a lawyer, but it’s strongly recommended if:
• You were fired or demoted after complaining
• You’re afraid of retaliation
• The harassment was severe or repeated
• The employer has hired outside legal counsel
An attorney can help you:
• Prepare your statements
• Submit evidence
• Negotiate interim protections or settlements
• Request a Right-to-Sue letter if needed
Common Questions About Harassment Investigations in LA
❓ Can I be fired for participating in an investigation?
No. That would be illegal retaliation under both California and Los Angeles law.
❓ Is everything I say confidential?
Your identity and complaint details are protected as much as possible—but the accused will typically
learn who made the claim.
❓ What if I’m not satisfied with the outcome?
You can:
• File a CRD or CHRED complaint
• Request a Right-to-Sue letter
• Speak to an employment attorney
Knowledge Is Power During an LA Investigation
Sexual harassment investigations in Los Angeles can feel intimidating—but they’re also a critical tool for
justice.
Document everything, speak clearly, and don’t let fear stop you from standing up. If you need help, legal
and civil rights agencies in LA are ready to support you.
