In today’s gig economy, many professionals in Los Angeles work as freelancers, consultants, or on-demand workers. But what happens if you’re sexually harassed — and you’re not a traditional employee?
The good news: Independent contractors in California, including Los Angeles, are protected by state law when it comes to sexual harassment. This guide explains your rights, what to do if you’re harassed, and how to take legal action even if you’re not on the company’s payroll.
Do Independent Contractors Have Protection Against Sexual Harassment in LA?
Yes. Under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) — one of the most progressive anti-harassment laws in the country — independent contractors are protected from:
• Sexual harassment
• Unwanted touching or advances
• Sexually hostile work environments
These rights apply whether you’re a:
• Freelancer
• Gig worker (e.g., Uber, Instacart, DoorDash)
• Creative professional (e.g., writers, artists, consultants)
• Tech contractor or startup team member
Los Angeles adds an extra layer of protection through local city ordinances and enforcement via the Civil + Human Rights and Equity Department (CHRED).
Who Can Be Held Liable for Harassing a Contractor?
In LA, both individuals and companies can be held legally responsible for sexually harassing an independent contractor.
The harasser could be:
• A manager at the company hiring you
• A coworker or team member
• A client or customer
• A vendor or partner
Even if the harasser isn’t an official employee, California law still holds the hiring entity liable if they knew or should have known about the harassment — and failed to take action.
Examples of Sexual Harassment Toward Independent Contractors
• A videographer is repeatedly flirted with and touched by a client who hired them for an event shoot
• A marketing consultant is sent explicit texts from a company executive and is told to “go along” to get more work
• A makeup artist on a film set is propositioned and later excluded from future gigs for saying no
All of these qualify as sexual harassment — even if the victim never filled out a W-2 form.
How to Report Sexual Harassment as a Contractor in Los Angeles
1. Document the Incidents
• Take screenshots of messages or emails
• Record what happened (date, time, location, people involved)
• Save contracts or invoices showing your working relationship
2. File a Complaint with CRD
• Visit: https://calcivilrights.ca.gov
• File under “Sexual Harassment – Independent Contractor”
• Include all supporting evidence
• Deadline: 3 years from the last act of harassment
3. File with Los Angeles CHRED (optional but recommended)
• For LA city-specific protection
• Website: https://civilandhumanrights.lacity.org
Can You Sue for Sexual Harassment as a Contractor in LA?
Yes — if you were harassed while performing contract work in Los Angeles, you can:
• File a civil lawsuit against the person who harassed you
• Sue the hiring company for failing to prevent or stop the harassment
Damages may include:
• Emotional distress
• Lost income or future job opportunities
• Medical costs for therapy or treatment
• Punitive damages (in extreme cases)
You’ll need a Right-to-Sue letter from the CRD before filing a lawsuit.
What If You Were Retaliated Against After Reporting?
Even as a contractor, you’re protected from retaliation. If the company:
• Cancels future gigs
• Bad-mouths you to other clients
• Cuts your contract without cause after your complaint
Then you may also have a retaliation claim, which can increase your compensation.
Why These Rights Matter for Gig Workers in LA
Gig economy workers are vulnerable to exploitation because:
• They often work alone or remotely
• They rely on client ratings or recurring contracts
• They may feel disposable or afraid to speak up
But Los Angeles law treats harassment seriously, no matter your employment classification.
Speak Up and Take Legal Action as a Contractor in LA
Being a contractor shouldn’t mean being powerless. If you’ve experienced sexual harassment in Los Angeles — whether at a gig, on set, in a home, or at a client’s office — you have the right to report, file a complaint, and seek justice.
Document everything. File with the CRD or CHRED. And don’t hesitate to speak with a Los Angeles harassment attorney who knows how to fight for your rights — even without a 9-to-5 job title.
