No one should feel unsafe or disrespected in their workplace. Sexual harassment and assault go beyond inappropriate behavior—they disrupt lives, destroy trust, and create environments where people feel powerless. These actions can affect your confidence, your career, and your well-being. If you’re dealing with such misconduct, you have the right to stand up for yourself and pursue justice, regardless of who the perpetrator is or the power they hold. Solomon Law Firm, PLLC, is here to help.
What Constitutes Sexual Harassment or Assault?
Sexual harassment and assault in the workplace involve behavior that crosses professional boundaries and creates a hostile environment. Sexual harassment includes unwelcome comments, jokes, gestures, or advances of a sexual nature. It can also involve more direct actions, such as pressuring someone for dates or making inappropriate physical contact. These actions don’t have to be overtly aggressive to qualify as harassment—they just need to make the recipient feel uncomfortable or threatened.
Sexual assault, on the other hand, involves physical acts or attempts of a sexual nature without consent. This can include groping, coercion, or more severe violations. Assault is a criminal offense and goes beyond workplace policy violations.
It’s important to remember that harassment and assault can happen in any workplace setting, from corporate offices to warehouses. Regardless of the circumstances, you have the right to work in an environment free from fear or intimidation.
Power Dynamics and Workplace Disparities
Power dynamics often play a significant role in workplace sexual harassment and assault cases. When someone in a position of authority—such as a high-level executive, manager, or influential figure—abuses their power, it can leave victims feeling trapped. Overt threats, fear of retaliation, damaged reputation, or career setbacks can prevent employees from speaking out against harassment or assault.
Examples of power disparities include an executive targeting an entry-level employee, an executive producer harassing an actor, or a senior officer exploiting their authority over subordinates in the military. The imbalance in status often emboldens perpetrators to manipulate situations to their advantage, making victims feel their complaints will go unheard or dismissed.
No one should feel powerless against abuse, no matter the perpetrator’s level of influence. You have legal options to protect your rights and hold wrongdoers accountable, regardless of their position.
Legal Remedies Under Title VII and the EEOC
You should never have to tolerate sexual harassment in your workplace. Such behavior is not just unacceptable—it’s illegal. Many workplace sexual harassment cases fall under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment, in the workplace. Employers are legally required to prevent and address workplace harassment.
If you’ve experienced sexual harassment, the next steps depend on your employment situation. Federal employees must act quickly by contacting a federal employment counselor within 45 days of the incident. Private-sector employees begin by filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), which investigates the claim and may issue a Right to Sue letter if further action is required.
If the EEOC dismisses your claim or fails to resolve the issue, it’s time to consult a sexual harassment and assault attorney. At Solomon Law Firm, we understand the complexities of both federal and private-sector claims. We’ll ensure your case is handled efficiently and advocate for your rights.
Tort-Based Claims for Sexual Harassment and Assault
In addition to Title VII and EEOC claims, victims of workplace sexual harassment and assault may have tort-based causes of action that allow them to seek damages in civil court. These claims provide additional legal options and compensation beyond what employment law offers.
These are some of the tort-based claims that may be pursued in cases of workplace sexual harassment and assault:
- Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): When a perpetrator’s behavior is extreme and outrageous, causing severe emotional distress, victims may bring an IIED claim. This can be particularly relevant in cases of repeated harassment, intimidation, or coercion.
- Battery: Any unwanted physical contact—such as groping, forced touching, or other non-consensual acts—can constitute battery. Unlike harassment claims, battery does not require proof of intent to harass; it only requires proof of intentional, harmful, or offensive contact.
- Assault: If a perpetrator places a victim in immediate fear of harmful or offensive contact, even if the physical act does not occur, they may be liable for assault. Threats of sexual violence or aggressive sexual advances can qualify as assault.
- False Imprisonment: If an aggressor physically restrains or restricts the movement of a victim—for example, cornering them in an office or blocking them from leaving a space—this may give rise to a false imprisonment claim.
- Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Claims: Under federal law, victims of sexual violence may have legal recourse through VAWA, which provides civil remedies for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
- Punitive Damages: Damages meant to penalize, are determined based on the total net worth of the defendant(s).
These tort-based claims allow victims to seek compensatory damages for emotional distress, pain and suffering, and even punitive damages to punish egregious conduct. Unlike Title VII claims, which are often limited to workplace-related damages, tort claims provide broader legal options to increase compensation.
How We Handle Sexual Harassment and Assault Cases
At Solomon Law Firm, we approach sexual harassment and assault cases with compassion and determination. We understand the courage it takes to come forward, especially when facing power disparities or fear of retaliation. Our team works closely with you to assess your case, explain your rights, and outline your options for pursuing justice.
Our firm has significant experience handling cases involving high-profile defendants. These cases demand a strategic approach to ensure powerful perpetrators are held accountable while safeguarding your privacy and dignity. We are dedicated to pursuing justice, no matter the perpetrator’s position or resources. From gathering evidence to advocating for you in negotiations or court, we focus on protecting your rights and achieving a fair resolution.
Contact an Experienced Sexual Harassment and Assault Lawyer
No one should endure sexual harassment or assault in the workplace. At Solomon Law Firm, we stand by your side to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected. Whether you’re facing misconduct from a coworker or a high-profile individual, we’re here to help you seek justice and regain control of your future. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward accountability and resolution.