Workplace dynamics have changed significantly in recent years, and one of the most important changes involves the legal remedies available to victims of sexual harassment. Where men and women who were targeted for harassment previously had few remedies, attitudes have shifted and laws have been passed to protect victims and punish perpetrators. If you’re experiencing sexual harassment, the most effective method of stopping it starts by consulting an attorney.
An experienced sexual harassment attorney will be your best advocate, relying on federal, state and local laws to intervene on your behalf and take action against your perpetrator(s) and those that have enabled a hostile work environment.
Sexual harassment in the workplace can take many different forms. It is described generally as unwanted sexual advances, demands or propositions or an environment that makes you uncomfortable based on your sex or gender combined with either a “tangible personnel action” or behavior that is so severe as to have had an effect on your working conditions. Though this description may seem complex, there is a good chance that you instinctively know that what you are experiencing is wrong. An attorney will be able to confirm your suspicions, as well as provide you with the answers to your questions and concerns.
Many victims of sexual harassment in the workplace are afraid of coming forward. Whether their tormentor is a supervisor, a coworker, or even a non-employee such as a client, your employer is responsible for providing you with a safe workplace. If they know or should have known about what is happening they are required to take appropriate action.
If you think the unwanted attention or actions you’re experiencing are sexual harassment, start by documenting what is happening. Take notes of not only the behavior itself but also when, where, and under what circumstances, and keep any supporting evidence, whether notes, voicemails, texts, or the like. This documentation will help an attorney determine your best path forward. It is a good idea to meet with an attorney before addressing the problem within your organization, as doing so can help avoid or address concerns about retaliation, which is illegal. It is important that you act quickly, as there are time limitations for reporting harassing actions.
Sexual harassment in the workplace is unacceptable and illegal. If you believe that you’re a victim, contacting our sexual harassment attorneys is the best step towards making it stop and getting the justice you deserve.