Facing Sexual Harassment or Discrimination in the Workplace? Here is What You Should Do!

Workplace sexual harassment is illegal in many states, but it still happens to many people in many different forms despite the laws. Inappropriate touching, lewd comments, offensive jokes, or an employer promising a promotion in exchange for sexual favors are all different forms of sexual harassment. But sometimes, sexual harassment can also come in the form of teasing people based on their sex, gender identity, ethnicity, race, disability, etc. Many people don’t know how to deal with it and become targets of abuse and harassment in the workplace. So, if you have been a victim of sexual harassment from a coworker, a supervisor, or a customer, you should be prepared to take action against it. It is recommended to consult with an experienced sexual harassment lawyer in Manhattan, NY, for preparing to take legal action.

Here is what you should do to deal with sexual harassment in the workplace:

• Confront the harasser

If you have been sexually harassed by a coworker, employer, manager or supervisor, etc., and you have decided to take action, make sure to confront the harasser. It is best to follow the company procedures for reporting them. 

• Consult a sexual harassment lawyer

It is best to consult a sexual harassment lawyer in Manhattan, NY, for legal advice regarding the best legal options to proceed with a sexual harassment lawsuit. Your attorney will let you know about your legal rights and help you prepare a valid case.

• File a written complaint

Your attorney may advise you to file a written complaint following your company policies if you haven’t filed one already. You should keep a copy of the written complaint as evidence for legal action if the management does not take appropriate action to address the complaint. 

• Collect evidence

If the management does not address your complaint and fails to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace, it is best to collect evidence of harassment as much as possible. Your attorney will advise you regarding the kind of evidence that might help make your case stronger.

• File a sexual harassment lawsuit

If you have been a victim of sexual harassment, it is crucial to take legal action within a year. The lawsuit needs to be filed within the specified time limit of either 180 days or 300 days, based on your state legislation. Your attorney will guide you throughout the process of filing the lawsuit and seeking justice.

If you are a victim of workplace sexual harassment, consult a sexual harassment lawyer in Manhattan, NY, for legal advice.

Don’t be a Victim of Sexual Harassment, Fight for your Rights

 While hiring a female employee, the employer ensures that her safety will be their topmost priority. The employee joins the firm and strives towards the betterment of the organization. Despite all the efforts, some coworkers and supervisors want her to act according to them. They send her late night text messages or pass sexually charged comments or invite her to meetings that would somehow turn into dates. The person who wants to earn money for her living does not say anything. After all, taking action might make her lose her job. Instead of being a victim of the circumstances, fighting for your rights with the assistance of a sexual harassment lawyer in NY.

Following are the types of inappropriate conduct:

Following is the list of actions that can make the employee feel intimidated, distracted, or uncomfortable at work:

1. Continuous compliments on the appearance of the employee.
2. Discussing attractiveness in front of others
3. Talking about private life in front of the employee
4. Sending sexually suggestive text messages and emails
5. Hugging, touching or grabbing private part of the body
6. Spreading rumors about the employee.

Things to Consider when talking about Sexual Harassment 

• Sexual harassment knows no gender: It is a common case when a male harasses a female at the workplace. There are instances when a female employee sexually harasses a male employee. Forms of harassment, including male to male and female to female, are also illegal. Harassment is not only based on sexual desire but sometimes takes place due to the victim’s gender.
• Harassment from clients or customers: It is not right if a coworker or a supervisor sexually harasses an employee. The employers must take strict actions against those who have committed this heinous act.

No one will help you if you don’t stand up for yourself and fight back. If you feel helpless and want to get justice, then it is better to discuss your case with New York Sexual Harassment Lawyer and work in a safe and healthy work environment.