What Should I Do if I am the Victim of Workplace Sexual Harassment or Discrimination?

Contact an experienced Sex Discrimination Lawyer

Sexual harassment or discrimination can be a shameful and stressful experience to manage, especially when it happens in the workplace. It’s likely you are worried about the repercussions of coming forward or when you should consult with an attorney. Legal professionals can not only lend a compassionate hand, but may also be able to help you seek legal action should it be necessary. Here are some steps to take if you have experienced sexual harassment:

  1. Be able to identify sexual harassment. This may be difficult, especially if you are still in disbelief over your experience. Sexual harassment can come in a number of ways, for example:
  • Quid Pro Quo: you are offered perks from someone who is usually a co worker in exchange for sexual favors
  • Hostile Work Environment: inappropriate behavior that is hostile or abusive and of a sexual nature. This may include sexual jokes, unwelcome sexual advances and can occur from any type of coworker such as a superior or peer.
  1. Ask the person to stop his or her behavior. Although this may be difficult, this is usually the fastest way to remedy the situation. Some may find that the harassment does not end. Further action may be needed.
  1. Speak with your supervisor. (Or with your employer’s Human Resources department). You may be able to file an official complaint with them. They will be able to walk you through the company’s harassment policy. Most companies will take steps to remedy the situation by investigating your claim and speaking with your harasser directly. This may result in some form of employee infraction on the part of the accused. 
  1. If you experience retaliation from your employer, file a complaint. A dedicated legal team can help you file a report with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within the appropriate timeframes.
  1. Contact an attorney. They will play a vital role in providing you with the guidance you require no matter where you may be able in the process.

Taking Action

The reality is that many people never come forward to report sexual harassment or discrimination in the workplace. Unfortunately, there are a number of reasons for this. Victims of harassment may worry for fear of retaliation in the workplace, that the harassment will get worse, or despite reporting the harassment they may still have to face their abuser on a daily basis in the workplace. These concerns are all valid. If you have worries or fears that this may happen to you, it’s very well possible that it could. Sexual harassment can bring forth a number of uncertainties. 

Sexual harassment or discrimination in the workplace should always be taken seriously. No one deserves to experience this type of mistreatment while at work. Unfortunately, some employers do not know how to appropriately manage the situation at hand. That’s where a lawyer can intervene. If you need to speak with a lawyer, such as a sex discrimination lawyer from Barry P. Goldberg, it is recommended you do so right away.