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, for example. Although this applies to employers with more than 15 employees, local and state laws protect workers from sexual harassment at smaller businesses. Facing sexual harassment at the workplace can be an extremely difficult experience, so it is important to have legal support to help you navigate the situation successfully.
Discrimination and Sexual Harassment, Workers’ Rights
Leeds Brown Law provides the services of experienced sexual harassment lawyers to workers in the greater metropolitan areas around New York City and the surrounding counties. If you are experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace, your rights are being violated. Talking with a sexual harassment lawyer can be helpful when you are still 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, for example.
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, but it is important to recognize which one applies to your situation. For example, if the perpetrator of the harassment is in a position of power or authority and makes giving sexual favors a condition for employment, this is called quid pro quo harassment.
This could also take other forms. For example, the person in authority 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 power, and they also thrive in an environment where their victims are isolated from others and remain unaware of their legal rights. Get a consultation with a sexual harassment lawyer in NYC if you are facing any kind of quid pro quo harassment at work.
The power 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 and persists even after you refuse, it could constitute a hostile work environment. This will also be the case if you complain to the employer and nothing is done to stop the person from persisting in making sexually explicit comments and suggestive remarks.
The hostile work environment is partially created by the employer, supervisor or manager because this position provides the person holding it with the power to correct these situations. A hostile work environment is designed to interfere with your productivity and demoralize you. However, there are laws that protect workers from sexual harassment in the form of a hostile work environment. Assert your legal rights by speaking with an experienced sexual harassment lawyer about your situation.
Leeds Brown Law, Sexual Harassment Lawyer in NYC
Sexual harassment lawyers in NYC help victims recover punitive damages, lost wages and benefits, and more. These cases may involve powerful employers with legal resources to fight against you, so it is important to work with an experienced legal team. We have 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 for a free legal consultation.
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