Sexual Abuse While Working at Carl’s Jr. in California

If you experienced sexual abuse, assault, or harassment while working at a Carl’s Jr. in California, please know that what happened to you matters — and that help is available. Our compassionate legal team is here to listen confidentially and help you understand your rights.

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Compassionate support, on your terms

Standing up to a large restaurant employer can feel intimidating, especially when you depend on the job. You do not have to face that alone. At Wilshire Law Firm, a legal professional will listen to your story with care, answer your questions honestly, and help you understand what steps you may want to take — with no pressure and no obligation. We represent clients confidentially and are available 24/7.

Holding Carl’s Jr. and Its Franchise Operators Accountable

Employer responsibility for a safe workplace

Whether a location is operated by the corporate parent or an independent franchisee, employers in California have a duty to protect their workers from sexual abuse and harassment. That duty includes taking complaints seriously, supervising employees in positions of authority, and removing known threats. When a company looks the other way or allows misconduct to continue, that failure can be the foundation of a civil claim. We investigate who was responsible and pursue every accountable party on your behalf.

Hostile Work Environments and Retaliation

When speaking up leads to punishment

Sexual abuse at work often exists alongside a broader hostile environment — repeated sexual comments, unwanted advances, or demeaning treatment. California law also protects workers from retaliation for reporting misconduct, such as being demoted, having hours cut, or being pushed out after making a complaint. If you were punished for speaking up, that retaliation may itself be part of your claim. A confidential case review can help you understand how these protections apply.

Your Rights and Deadlines Under California Law (CCP § 340.1 and § 340.16)

Protecting your right to come forward

How long you have to file depends on your age when the abuse occurred. Survivors who were minors are covered by California Code of Civil Procedure § 340.1, which imposes no deadline for childhood sexual assault committed on or after January 1, 2024, and provides extended time for earlier abuse (generally until age 40 or five years from discovering the injury). Because exceptions may apply, we recommend speaking with a legal professional as soon as you’re ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file a claim against Carl’s Jr. for workplace sexual abuse in California?

You may be able to. Depending on the facts, the corporate employer, a franchise operator, and individuals involved may be held responsible. A free, confidential case review can help you understand your specific options.

I was retaliated against after I complained. Does that matter?

Yes. California law protects employees from retaliation for reporting sexual harassment or abuse, and that retaliation may strengthen your case.

Is everything I share kept private?

Yes. We handle these matters with great sensitivity and represent clients confidentially. You control what you share and when.

What will it cost me?

Nothing upfront. Consultations and case reviews are free, and we work on contingency — there are no fees unless you get paid.

How long do I have to take action?

It depends on your circumstances and age at the time. California provides extended deadlines for childhood sexual abuse under § 340.1 and separate time limits for adults under § 340.16. A legal professional can confirm what applies to you.

Speak With Wilshire Law Firm — Free, Confidential Case Review

Reaching out costs nothing and commits you to nothing. Wilshire Law Firm’s nationally recognized team is here to listen with compassion, protect your privacy, and help you understand your options. We’re available 24/7, case reviews are free, and there are no fees unless you get paid.

Call us anytime or request your free, confidential case review online.

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