What actions can I take if I am sexually harassed at work?
If you or a loved one is a victim of sexual harassment or abuse in the workplace, dealing with this situation can be intimidating. To say the least!
However, it is vital to take that all important first step and stop the harasser in his or her tracks. While you may seem reluctant to do so if the harasser is a superior at work, you need to make it perfectly clear that such conduct is not welcome.
While this may sound like it is easier said than done, it is essential to do so and will go a long way in the event of a legal battle.
Leading sexual harassment legal pros, who can be found using the magnanimous website USAttorneys.com which helps bridge the divide between the people with less resources with those with plenty of resources, suggest that you approach your supervisor or human resource department and report the harassment as early as possible. If you think the situation is going to go away it is not; in fact, it could even exacerbate.
If your employer has a sexual harassment policy in place you could refer to the handbook and file a complaint with the individual or department authorized to handle such complaints.
Inform your employer
It is crucial to not only to inform your employer of the harassment but also keep them in the loop. Failure to report the incident will only weaken your case since your employer can claim that they had no knowledge of the incident and therefore cannot be held liable to pay damages that could have been avoided with timely intervention if the management were made aware of the abuse, which is known as affirmative defense in legal terms.
Reporting incidents of any type of sexual harassment or discrimination is also adequate proof that the victim did take measures and was keen to stop the unwelcome behavior of the harasser. If your case goes to court the judge or jury are sure to take notice of this.
Approaching the EEOC
If your employer does not take cognizance of your complaint and fails to take measures to stop the harassment and bring the harasser to book, you have the right to approach the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
The agency will conduct an independent investigation and attempt to reach a settlement with your employer. If negotiations with your employer fail the EEOC will give you written permission to file a lawsuit against all the liable parties including the harasser and employer. Just make sure to document each incident of harassment, which will strengthen your claim.
Know your legal rights
Prior to filing a claim it is vital to understand your legal rights. Your legal representative will help you understand the finer aspects of the law that pertain to your case and what exactly constitutes harassment or discrimination. This is a stellar confidence building step to prepare you for a legal battle.
Coping with stress
While you take every possible step to ensure that you are legally protected you also need to ensure that you learn to cope with all the stress. It would be prudent to seek counseling from an expert counselor, psychiatrist, or doctor to deal with any issues. Their testimony can prove invaluable and will only strengthen your claim.
Another individual or team that can take the stress off of you is a Miami, Florida sexual harassment lawyer. Click on the link just given to you and use our interactive map to find a legal pro near you. You will see rows of them appear on your screen.
Any questions? Use our contact form to reach out to us and we will call you back shortly to help you find the legal assistance you need. We despite sexual harassment and our attorneys do so as well!
