What to Do After A Sexual Assault in the Workplace?

Under California law, a sexual assault occurs when someone touches the intimate part of another person against that person’s will and for the specific purpose of sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse. Alternatively, sexual assault is any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the person receiving the contact or behavior. If you believe you have been sexually assaulted at work, you should take the following steps as soon as possible.

Seek Medical Attention

Survivors of assault need to see a healthcare professional quickly. Medical professionals can treat the injuries resulting from the assault, such as sexually transmitted diseases, lacerations and bruises, internal bleeding, and other trauma. The medical professionals will also provide the victim with a rape kit. This equipment serves to collect evidence for police purposes and to participate to the extent possible in finding those responsible for your case.

Contact the Police

Sexual assault is a crime, even if it occurs in the workplace. You should report the incident to the police immediately.

Notify Your Employers

If the sexual assault occurred in the workplace, it is important to notify management or human resources as soon as you can about the assault. Filing an incident report at work can markedly improve the atmosphere from now on as you attempt to recover from your silliness.

Reach out for Support

Sexual assault is a crime that wreaks havoc with the victim’s emotions and self-esteem. You may experience depression, anxiety, and other emotional storms. Don’t try to be a stoic loner; take advantage of any comfort offered to you. Once you are no longer in danger, get together with supportive friends and family. 

Seek Mental Help

As noted, a sexual assault strikes at the very core of who you are. If friends and family are not enough to help you deal with depression, anxiety, and potential Post-Traumatic-Stress Disorder, contact a mental healthcare professional to help you cope with the aftermath of your assault. 

Seek Legal Help

After you experience a workplace sexual assault, it is important that you understand your legal rights and how to protect them. A skilled and experienced sexual harassment attorney can help you take the right legal steps for you and your family.

Sexual assault in the workplace is an extreme form of sexual harassment. It simply comprises an extreme example of unwanted or offensive touching. If the individual who assaulted you has a record of sexual harassment which has been tolerated by your employer, you may be able to sue both the rapist and the employer. Your lawyer can review the facts and circumstances of your case and help you decide how to proceed. Some lawyers only sue the employer. Others use a shotgun rather than a rifle and sue anyone who might potentially be liable. Let your experience sexual assault attorney take the wheel and go after the person or persons responsible for the assault. You will be feeling upset and vulnerable for some time.

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