Sexual Harassment in The Workplace
Sexual harassment in the workplace is illegal under federal, state and local laws. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 forbids sexual harassment and discrimination on the basis of sex. Although this applies to employers with more than 15 employees, New York City and New York State laws protect workers from sexual harassment at smaller businesses. Facing sexual harassment at the workplace can be an extremely difficult and embarrassing experience, so it is important to know your legal rights to help navigate the situation successfully.
Discrimination and Sexual Harassment, Workers’ Rights
Leeds Brown Law, P.C. provides the services of experienced sexual harassment lawyers to workers in the greater metropolitan areas around New York City, including Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester and Rockland County. If you are experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace, your rights are being violated. Talking with a sexual harassment lawyer from Leeds Brown Law, P.C. can be helpful when figuring out how to deal with the situation, so make an appointment for a free consultation as soon as possible.
All workers have the right to be free from sexual harassment and discrimination at the workplace, but violations still happen. There are several prominent forms of sexual harassment that may occur, and it is important to know where the courts draw this line. There is quid pro quo harassment, and there is also the hostile work environment.
Hostile Environment, or Quid Pro Quo?
Workers experiencing sexual harassment on the job may suffer from a hostile work environment or another type of harassment called quid pro quo. Both forms of sexual harassment are illegal.For example, if the perpetrator of the harassment is in a position of power or authority to you, and suggests or demands sexual favors as a condition for employment or a more favorable work environment, this is called quid pro quo sexual harassment.
This could also take other forms. For example, the person violating your rights might demand sexual activities in order to prevent some kind of punishment or retaliation, which is also illegal. These offenders are often in a position of powerand oftenthrive in an environment where their victims are isolated from others and remain unaware of their legal rights. If you feel you are victim of sexual harassment in New York and are facing any kind of quid pro quo sexual harassment at work contact a New York lawyer immediately.
The relationship between the perpetrator and the victim also plays a role in determining where this line is drawn. For example, a situation where a co-worker asks you out on a date might not qualify as sexual harassment. However, if this behavior gets more sexually explicit or persists even after you refuse, it could constitute a hostile work environment. This will especially be the case if you complain to your employer and nothing is done to stop the person from persisting in making sexually explicit comments and/or suggestive remarks.
The hostile work environment is partially created by the employer, supervisor or manager because this position provides the person with the power to correct these situations. A hostile work environment often interferes with your productivity and demoralize you. However, there are laws that protect workers from being subjected to sexual harassment or a hostile work environment. Assert your legal rights by speaking with an experienced sexual harassment lawyer about your situation.
Leeds Brown Law, P.C., Sexual Harassment Lawyer in New York
Sexual harassment lawyers in NYC, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester and Rockland County can help victims recover punitive damages, lost wages, benefits, and damages for pain and suffering. These cases may involve powerful employers with legal resources to fight against you, so it is important to work with an experienced legal team. Leeds Brown Law has a long history of winning sexual harassment cases against prominent employers in New York. Our team of sexual harassment lawyers can help you to create a winning legal strategy. We also provide invaluable emotional support while you endure this difficult period in your life. Contact Leeds Brown Law, P.C. for a free legal consultation. We Believe You.
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