<P> California law and the FEHA also allow for the imposition of punitive damages when a corporate defendant's officers, directors or managing agents engage in harassment, discrimination, or retaliation, or when such persons approve or consciously disregard prohibited conduct by lower - level employees in violation of the rights or safety of the plaintiff or others . </P> <P> The California Court of Appeals opinion in the landmark sexual harassment case of Weeks . v. Baker & McKenzie is a good example of how the FEHA works to protect employees in California . Settlements in FEHA cases can actually be quite complex and require complex negotiations . </P> <P> Whether seeking an investigation under FEHA or a suit in court, the process usually begins with the victim filing a complaint of discrimination with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing . </P>

Compared to the federal fair housing act california's fair employment and housing act contains