Several state and federal laws protect workers from sexual harassment. Sadly, laws themselves aren’t enough to prevent workplace sexual harassment, though they do offer workers legal recourse when they’ve been harassed at work.
Every worker needs to know that they have a right to a work environment free of sexual harassment. If their rights are violated, they can sue an employer for the harm they’ve experienced.
When Is it Sexual Harassment?
According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, “teasing, offhand comments, and isolated incidents” are not illegal. However, harassment becomes illegal when it’s extreme or frequent enough to create a hostile work environment, termination, or demotion.
Common Examples of Workplace Sexual Harassment
Workplace sexual harassment takes many forms, and it can include overt or repeated subtle words or actions. Some of the most common examples include:
- Unwelcome sexual advances
- Requests for sexual favors
- Verbal harassment of a sexual nature
- Physical harassment of a sexual nature
- Inappropriate comments about someone’s appearance
One of the most important factors determining whether words or actions are considered sexual harassment is how the person on the receiving end interprets them. In other words, it doesn’t matter whether the harasser thinks what they’ve said or done is inappropriate or not; it matters how those words or actions are seen by the person who suffered because of them.
When Can You Sue for Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
If you’ve been sexually harassed in your workplace, then you have the right to voice that to your employer’s leadership, file charges with a governmental agency, or file a lawsuit against your employer.
There are both state and federal laws concerning sexual harassment, and it helps to speak to an experienced workplace sexual harassment lawyer to make sure you understand your rights and hold your employer accountable for any damages you’ve experienced, whether emotional, physical, or financial.
How an Attorney Can Help
Attorneys who know sexual harassment law will be able to evaluate your case, help you explore your legal options, and represent you in a lawsuit if you decide to take legal action against your employer.
There are several benefits to having a legal advocate on your side:
- They’ll know the law, and they can advise you on what to do and what not to do as you prepare to take legal action.
- They will handle all the technical aspects of filing a lawsuit, so you can focus on your health and well-being.
- Having an experienced lawyer maximizes your chances of getting a satisfactory result in a sexual harassment lawsuit.
Contact the Team at Fieger Law Today
The Detroit employment law attorneys at Fieger Law help workers nationwide stand up for their rights. We have years of experience in these cases, and we can help you determine your options for taking legal action against your employer.
If you or someone you care about has been sexually harassed at work, know that the law is on your side—and so is Fieger Law. Contact our team today to schedule a free consultation.
