San Diego
Civil Sexual Harassment Lawyers
Sexual harassment doesn’t just happen at work. It can also occur in medical offices, therapy sessions, landlord-tenant relationships, and other professional or service settings. In California, Civil Code § 51.9 protects individuals from sexual harassment in these non-employment relationships, and Betts Law Group is here to help you enforce that protection.
If you were harassed by someone in a position of power or trust, our California sexual harassment lawyer is here to listen and help you take meaningful legal action.
In California, Civil Code § 51.9 protects individuals from sexual harassment in these non-employment relationships, and Betts Law Group is here to help you enforce that protection. If you were harassed by someone in a position of power or trust, our California sexual harassment lawyer is here to listen and help you take meaningful legal action.
What Is Civil Sexual Harassment Under California Law?
Civil Code § 51.9 applies to harassment that occurs in a wide range of relationships outside the workplace, including:
- Doctor–patient
- Therapist–client
- Landlord–tenant
- Teacher–student
- Coach–athlete
- Business–customer
If someone used their authority, influence, or access to make repeated or severe sexual advances or conduct that caused emotional or financial harm, you may have a claim.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY
Do I Need to File a Police Report for My California Civil Sexual Harassment Case?
Unlike criminal cases, civil lawsuits have a lower burden of proof and are focused on financial accountability, not punishment.
- You may have a case even if:
- You didn’t report the harassment at the time
- No one witnessed it
- It wasn’t physical
- You were afraid to speak up
Power dynamics often silence people. We’re here to help you speak up safely, at your own pace.
What If There Is a Criminal Investigation, Too?
Civil and criminal cases are separate, and you can pursue a civil claim regardless of what happens on the criminal side. Even if charges aren’t filed (or don’t lead to conviction) you still have a right to seek justice through the civil courts.
If there is a related criminal case, we’ll coordinate with the process and provide ongoing support. Attorney Whitney Betts can also advocate for you under Marsy’s Law, ensuring your rights as a survivor are respected.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
A civil sexual harassment lawsuit in California can help you recover:
- Emotional distress and therapy costs
- Lost income or job opportunities
- Reputational or professional harm
- Punitive damages for extreme misconduct
- Injunctive relief (like policy changes or institutional accountability)
We’ll evaluate the full scope of your harm and determine whether not just the individual but also an employer, facility, or institution should be held liable.
Why Betts Law Group?
Attorney Whitney Betts is more than just a skilled litigator. She’s a certified rape crisis counselor who has spent years advocating for survivors of sexual misconduct. She has handled cases involving medical facilities, schools, treatment centers, employers, and professionals in positions of power.
Our team combines:
- Trauma-informed advocacy that prioritizes your emotional safety
- Strategic legal experience navigating both civil harassment law and institutional accountability
- A client-centered process where you stay in control, and we handle the legal burden
We know how hard it is to come forward. That’s why we make it easier to take the first step with no judgment, no pressure, and no upfront costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is civil sexual harassment under California law?
Civil sexual harassment refers to unwelcome sexual conduct that occurs in a business, service, or professional relationship, such as with a doctor, therapist, landlord, teacher, or attorney. These claims fall under California Civil Code § 51.9, which allows survivors to seek financial compensation through a civil lawsuit.
How is civil sexual harassment different from workplace harassment?
Workplace harassment involves employer-employee relationships and is covered under employment law (like FEHA). Civil sexual harassment applies outside of work (in healthcare, housing, education, service relationships, etc.) and involves a breach of trust, power, or professional duty.
What are examples of civil sexual harassment relationships?
Examples include harassment by:
- A therapist or medical provider
- A teacher, coach, or tutor
- A landlord or property manager
- A legal or financial advisor
- A clergy member
- Any professional in a position of trust or authority
Do I need to report the harassment to the police first?
No. A civil case is separate from criminal charges. You can pursue a civil sexual harassment claim even if no police report has been filed. The goal is compensation and accountability—not punishment.
What compensation can I recover in a civil sexual harassment case?
You may be eligible for damages related to:
- Emotional distress
- Therapy and treatment costs
- Lost income or opportunities
- Punitive damages (in severe cases)
- Legal fees and court costs
How long do I have to file a civil sexual harassment claim in California?
In many cases, you have up to 10 years to file a civil claim under California law. However, the deadline can vary based on the relationship, age, and discovery of harm—so it’s important to speak with an attorney to confirm your timeline.
Can I remain anonymous in a civil sexual harassment case?
Often, yes. Many cases can be filed using initials or pseudonyms, and settlements can be kept confidential. Our team takes your privacy seriously and will work to protect your identity throughout the process.
What if the harassment happened years ago?
You may still have a case. California law recognizes that many survivors take time to come forward. Reach out for a confidential consultation to discuss whether the statute of limitations has passed or is still open.
Do I need a lawyer to sue for civil sexual harassment?
These cases are complex and often involve professionals or institutions with legal teams of their own. Having a lawyer on your side ensures your rights are protected, deadlines are met, and the process is handled with care.
Take Back Control on Your Terms
If someone in a position of trust crossed a line, you have legal options. At Betts Law Group, we help people turn painful experiences into purposeful action.