There are not many things worse than being sexually harassed at your place of employment. Not only is this against the law, but it can make your work life very challenging.

Were You the Victim of Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment is illegal. Retaliation for reporting sexual harassment is also illegal. Workers, regardless of their employment type or industry, have a right to a safe work environment that is free from sexual advances and harassment. Most employers have policies in place that can guide someone to understand what constitutes sexual harassment, as well as steps to take to report it.

It can be difficult to determine if you have been a victim of sexual harassment. For this reason, you may need a qualified attorney on your side that can help you determine what happened and then decide how you should move forward. A lawyer can review your workplace policy, while also considering the details of the incident, deciding if you have a case.

Here are several examples of sexual harassment in the workplace:

  • Sexual favors being requested in return for a promotion, pay raise, or some other perk.
  • Being touched in a sexual manner without your consent.
  • Other employees, including superiors or co-workers, making sexual comments to you or about you.
  • Being dismissed because of a lack of willingness to engage in sexual harassment.

These are just a few examples of sexual harassment. But, sexual harassment can also include any unwelcome advances or references to sexual content. Sexual harassment is not inclusive of racial, religion, or gender harassment. However, these types of harassment are also illegal in the workplace.

While you may be tempted to leave this uncomfortable position, you likely need the income, which can put you in a difficult place. This is why it is important to work with an experienced lawyer, who may be able to fight for the compensation you deserve. While collecting compensation may not help you forget about the problematic work environment, it can help you recover and find employment where you are comfortable.

Don’t Delay in Contacting an Attorney

In the state of Massachusetts, you only have 300 days from the most recent offense to file a claim. In other words, if you wait longer than 300 days, you are unable to file a claim for sexual harassment. For this reason, it is essential to seek legal advice immediately if you feel you have been a victim of sexual harassment.

Your lawyer can also help with reporting sexual harassment to the appropriate party. All cases of harassment should be reported to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Filing a claim requires proof that you have already notified your employer, as well as continued harassment despite warnings.

It can take your lawyer some time to evaluate the details and decide if you have a case, so it is best to begin this process as soon as possible. By contacting the Law Offices of Joel H. Schwartz, P.C., you can be rest assured that you are in good hands.