Sexual harassment in the workplace is not only a violation of personal dignity but also a breach of federal and state laws. Employees who face sexual harassment should know that they have legal rights to a safe, harassment-free workplace. However, despite these protections, many workers still face unwanted advances, inappropriate behavior, and a hostile work environment that interferes with their career and well-being. If you’re experiencing sexual harassment at work, an employment lawyer can help you understand your rights and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and seek justice.
At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we specialize in sexual harassment claims, and our experienced team of employment lawyers is dedicated to supporting employees in asserting their rights. In this article, we will explain what constitutes sexual harassment, the steps you can take to fight it, and how an employment lawyer can help you achieve the best possible outcome.
What is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment in the workplace is unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, sexual harassment is illegal, and employers are required to take action to prevent and address it. Sexual harassment can take many forms, including:
- Quid Pro Quo Harassment: This occurs when an employer or supervisor offers job benefits (such as promotions or raises) in exchange for sexual favors, or threatens negative consequences (such as termination) for refusing to comply.
- Hostile Work Environment: This happens when the workplace is filled with sexual advances, comments, gestures, or materials that make it difficult or impossible for an employee to perform their job. A hostile work environment can include verbal harassment, physical harassment, or the display of sexually explicit material.
- Sexual Comments or Jokes: Unwanted comments, jokes, or offensive remarks of a sexual nature can contribute to a sexually hostile environment, making employees feel uncomfortable, disrespected, or unsafe.
- Unwanted Physical Contact: Physical harassment can include unwanted touching, groping, or physical advances that make the employee feel violated or intimidated.
- Gender-Based Harassment: Harassment based on gender or gender identity is also considered sexual harassment. This includes treating someone unfairly because of their gender, making derogatory comments, or excluding them from activities due to their gender identity.
Sexual harassment can occur in any workplace and can be perpetrated by anyone, including supervisors, coworkers, clients, or even customers. It’s important to recognize that harassment doesn’t have to be sexual in nature—any conduct that is unwelcome and based on sex can be classified as sexual harassment if it creates a hostile or abusive environment.
How Can an Employment Lawyer Help with Sexual Harassment Claims?
If you’re facing sexual harassment at work, seeking the help of an experienced employment lawyer is essential. An employment lawyer can assist you in the following ways:
- Assessing Your Claim: An employment lawyer will review the facts of your case, including the specific actions that led to your harassment claim, any evidence you have (such as emails, messages, or witness testimonies), and the timeline of events. They will determine whether your situation qualifies as sexual harassment under the law.
- Guiding You Through the Reporting Process: An attorney can help you understand how to file a formal complaint with your employer, HR department, or government agencies such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). They can also assist with the internal process to ensure your complaint is taken seriously.
- Protecting Your Privacy and Confidentiality: An employment lawyer can guide you on how to protect your privacy and confidentiality during the process. They will ensure that you don’t face retaliation for reporting the harassment, and help you navigate any sensitive issues surrounding the disclosure of your case.
- Negotiating a Settlement: Many sexual harassment cases are resolved through settlement agreements between the employee and employer. Your lawyer will advocate for you during the settlement negotiations to ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages, which can include lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages.
- Litigating Your Case: If a settlement is not possible, your lawyer will represent you in court. They will file a lawsuit against your employer, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and fight for your rights before a judge or jury. An experienced attorney will help ensure that you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.
Why Choose Castronovo & McKinney for Your Sexual Harassment Claim?
At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we are committed to protecting employees’ rights and ensuring that they are not subjected to harassment in the workplace. We understand the emotional and financial toll that sexual harassment can have, and we are dedicated to helping you seek justice and the compensation you deserve. Whether you are dealing with quid pro quo harassment, a hostile work environment, or gender-based harassment, our team is here to help you through every step of the process.
Our firm has a proven track record of success in handling sexual harassment cases. We provide personalized legal representation, and we take a client-focused approach to each case. We understand that each situation is unique, and we tailor our legal strategies to meet the specific needs and goals of our clients.
If you are experiencing sexual harassment at work, don’t wait to take action. The sooner you seek legal help, the stronger your case will be. Contact Castronovo & McKinney today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced employment lawyers. We will review your case, explain your rights, and guide you through the legal process to seek justice.
For help with a sexual harassment claim, contact Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys today. We are here to protect your rights and ensure that you are treated with dignity and respect in the workplace.
Contact Us
Visit our offices in Morristown, NJ or New York, NY, or call us to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced employment lawyers. We are committed to fighting for the rights of employees who face sexual harassment in the workplace.
New Jersey Office
71 Maple Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924
New York Office
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1830, New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781
