It’s always uncomfortable to come forward when you’ve been sexually harassed at work. Women and men both may face inappropriate situations in the workplace, regardless of their profession or position in a company. If a colleague behaved inappropriately towards you at work, you may have legal repercussions available through an employment law claim.
What Constitutes Sexual Harassment?
When it comes to determining if you have a pursuable sexual harassment claim against an employer, there are three key components a judge will look for in your claim:
- Was the sexual harassment unwelcome? Sexual harassment is only illegal if the behavior is unwanted. Because of this, it’s always important to first communicate to the harassment that you need his or her behavior to stop. This can be done verbally, in writing, or by your actions.
- Is the conduct of a sexual nature? Many behaviors, whether they’re verbal or physical, can be considered sexual. Examples include colleagues commenting on your clothing or hugging/patting you inappropriately.
- Is the conduct severe or pervasive? Sexual harassment does not need to be both, but a valid claim will have one. For example, one colleague’s request for a date does not count as “severe” or pervasive.” If the same colleague repeatedly asks you out over the course of six months while ignoring your declination, you may be eligible for a claim.
- Does the harassment affect your working conditions? Examples of sexual harassment negatively affecting your ability to work include getting fired, receiving poor performance evaluations, receiving a demotion or an assignment to a less desirable team, or creating a hostile work environment.
Get Legal Help For Workplace Sexual Harassment Today
Whether you work for a company of 5 employees or 500, you should consider consulting with an employment law attorney before pursuing a sexual harassment case. Fill out our Free Employment Law Evaluation above to connect with an independent employment law attorney who handles sexual harassment cases in your area. With the help of an attorney, you can determine if you have a pursuable sexual harassment case against your employer and how much you may be entitled to.
The sexual harassment legal evaluation is free. You may be entitled to damages from your employer.
