Sexual harassment can a good job can turn a workplace into a toxic and unproductive environment. Usually, it goes unreported because victims may not be sure of what qualifies as workplace harassment and what they should do when they experience it. 

Why Many Victims Prefer to Suffer in Silence

Usually, it is hard for victims to confront their harassers. Sometimes, this can be an effective way to stop sexual harassment. When a victim can tell the harasser that their jokes are offensive, the discussion is not appropriate, or their behavior is not comfortable, the harasser may be embarrassed and stop. 

But, other times, sexual harassment victims tolerate the behavior as they fear repercussions for reporting it. Many of them just hope that it will go away on its own, but only to see the behavior escalates and continues. 

Actions Victims can Take

Federal and state laws prohibit sexual harassment. According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or EEOC, sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other physical or verbal harassment of a sexual nature. Victims of sexual harassment should work with a Sexual Harassment Lawyer in Queens to get help in stopping the inappropriate conduct and get the compensation they deserve. 

If you believe you have been sexually harassed at work, you must bring your complaint to the right person. If your company has a detailed procedure for handling your claim, you should follow it. If this procedure does not exist, bring your complaint to your immediate supervisor, the immediate superior of your supervisor, or HR. 

If you cannot resolve your complaint by using the internal procedures of your company, you must file an administrative charge with the EEOC or the human rights or civil rights enforcement agency of your state. The agency will investigate your claim and try to resolve by negotiating with your employer. If it fails to resolve your complaint and determines your claim is valid, it will issue a “right to sue” letter, which permits you to bring your case to court. 

If you suffered any injuries because of sexual harassment, you can file a civil lawsuit. A successful suit will grant remedies such as reinstatement, if you lost your job, damages for emotional distress, back pay, and more. 

Victims of sexual harassment in the workplace should take some steps to stop the issue and protect their right to a legal remedy. Sexual harassment cases are quite complex and employers may have a team of attorneys on their side. As a victim, you need to speak with a skilled lawyer to discuss the facts of your situation and make sure your rights are protected. 

Paul Petersen