Have you or someone you know been a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace? Have you silently put up with degrading treatment from a workplace associate out of fear of the consequences of reporting?
If so, seek professional legal assistance from an attorney who is experienced and well-versed in effectively handling sexual harassment cases. A Washington, DC sexual harassment lawyer at Solomon Law Firm, PLLC can provide competent and comprehensive legal representation to achieve the best possible outcome.
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Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
As an employee, you do not have to tolerate any type of sexual harassing behavior. Sexual harassment violates federal law and is a type of employment discrimination. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects employees from this form of discrimination.
The harasser may be the victim’s senior or otherwise in a position of power, giving the victim concerns about job security. However, employers are expected to provide a work environment that is free of such offensive behavior. If it is reported, they are expected to act quickly. Any employee who reports harassment in the workplace is also protected against retaliation from their employer under sexual harassment law.
Behaviors that constitute sexual harassment include:
- Unwanted sexual advances
- Requests for sexual favors
- Verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature
- Actual sexual assault or rape
- “Quid Pro Quo,” hinging employment benefits on sexual favors
- Displaying sexually suggestive images in the workplace
- Spreading suggestive rumors about an employee
- Unwelcome letters, calls, emails, and other suggestive materials
An offhand remark, teasing, or an isolated incident does not usually constitute sexual harassment. However, frequent or severe sexually offensive behavior needs to be addressed. This behavior can create a hostile work environment for the employee, interfering with work obligations and affecting the employee’s mental health.
Suing for Sexual Harassment
If you have experienced sexual harassment at work, it may be hard to know what to do next. Federal employees are required to contact a federal employment counselor within 45 days of the complained of discrimination. Failure to meet this deadline may prove fatal to an otherwise meritorious action. It is therefore imperative when taking on your Agency and the Federal Government to speak with an attorney in a time-efficient manner, it is best to speak with an attorney with extensive experience in federal employment law.
If you work in the private sector, the first step involves filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC will examine the details of your case and attempt to determine a remedy. At this point, they will also issue you a Right to Sue letter.
If the EEOC dismisses your claim or is otherwise ineffective, reach out to an attorney as soon as possible. Our lawyers can provide the legal advice you need on pursuing your case further and defend your rights in court.
Have you been subjected to sexual harassment in your workplace? Reach out to our employment law office in the District of Columbia at 866-8-FedLaw (866) 833-3529.