Archives for May 16, 2025

Experiencing sexual harassment at work can be one of the most isolating and painful challenges an employee faces. It’s not just about uncomfortable comments or inappropriate behavior—it’s about power, fear, and the lasting emotional toll it can take on someone just trying to do their job.

If you’ve been harassed at work, you may already feel overwhelmed, scared of retaliation, or unsure of what steps to take. And like so many survivors, you might be asking: What if I can’t afford a lawyer?

You Are Not Alone—and You Do Have Options

First, let me say this: If you are experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace, you are not alone—and you are not powerless. California law protects employees from workplace sexual harassment, regardless of job title, income level, or immigration status. And just as importantly, many employment law firms, including Haeggquist & Eck, represent clients on a contingency fee basis.

Let’s break down what that means.

What Is a Contingency Fee Arrangement?

A contingency fee agreement means that you do not pay your attorney upfront. Instead, your lawyer agrees to represent you in exchange for a percentage of whatever compensation you receive at the end of your case—whether through a settlement or a court judgment.

In simple terms: You only pay if you win.

This model was designed specifically to ensure that justice isn’t only available to people with deep pockets. It levels the playing field. And for survivors of sexual harassment, it offers a path forward that doesn’t require choosing between financial security and holding someone accountable.

How It Works in a Sexual Harassment Case

Here’s a general idea of how a contingency fee arrangement works in California:

• Free Evaluation: Most employment attorneys offer a free, confidential case evaluation to hear your story, assess whether you may have a legal claim, and determine whether the case is a good fit.
• No Upfront Costs: If the attorney agrees to take your case on contingency, you do not pay for their time, investigations, or court filings upfront. They assume the financial risk.
• Percentage-Based Fee: If your case is successful, your attorney will take a previously agreed-upon percentage from your settlement or award. This will be clearly outlined in your written fee agreement.
• If You Don’t Win, You Don’t Pay: If the case does not result in compensation, you will not owe legal fees.

Why Would a Lawyer Take That Risk?

Attorneys who handle employment cases on contingency do so because they believe in standing up for people who have been harmed—and because they believe in your case. Sexual harassment cases are about more than just legal violations; they are about restoring dignity, protecting future workers, and holding bad actors accountable.

By offering contingency-based representation, employment lawyers take on both the legal and financial burdens so that survivors can focus on healing.

Your Case Is Worth Fighting For

Too often, people stay silent because they think they can’t afford to fight back. But you don’t need to suffer in silence, and you don’t have to be wealthy to seek justice.

California has some of the strongest workplace protections in the country. If you’ve been subjected to unwanted sexual advances, inappropriate comments, touching, coercion, or retaliation for speaking up, you may have a claim. And even if you’re unsure whether what happened to you “counts,” an experienced employment attorney can help you figure that out—without judgment and without pressure.

What You Can Do Today

If you’re ready to take the first step, here are a few things you can do:

• Document Everything: Write down what happened in chronological order as best as you can. Include dates, times, what was said or done, and any witnesses.
• Save Evidence: Keep emails, text messages, or photos that support your claim. Do not delete anything even if you think it might make you look bad. Your lawyer is on your side no matter what and must have all the facts to effectively represent you. If you have already deleted items, that’s okay but let your attorney know.
• Report Internally (If Safe): If it feels safe, report the harassment to HR or a supervisor. Send an email saying you would like to report sexual harassment. Keep copies of your report.
• Reach Out to an Attorney: Even if you’re not sure you want to file a lawsuit, talking to a lawyer can help you understand your rights.

Final Thoughts

You should never have to choose between your paycheck and your safety. If you’ve been harassed at work and feel like you can’t afford legal help, know this: Help is available. Contingency-based representation makes justice accessible. You deserve to feel safe, respected, and supported—not just in your personal life, but in your workplace too.

You don’t have to face this alone. And you don’t have to pay to be heard.

At Haeggquist & Eck, when you’re ready to stand up, we’ll stand with you.