Sexual Harassment In The Workplace
Instances of sexual harassment represent serious challenges for victims. In addition to the shame and discomfort you feel from the instances of harassment, you are facing a potentially difficult legal battle ahead. You need to know your rights and understand the options available to you. Working with an experienced employment law attorney is the most important step you can take after this type of tragic workplace situation.
At the Law Office of Neil S. Hyman, LLC, in Maryland, we represent employees who have been victimized by sexual harassment. Lead attorney Neil Hyman has more than 20 years of experience representing employees in all types of workplace issues. Since our legal team represents employers in numerous issues, our team understands both sides of the legal process. This helps us provide a balanced, efficient approach.
Representing Sexual Harassment Victims
The most common examples of workplace harassment are the quid pro quo and the hostile working environment.
Quid Pro Quo
Quid pro quo is basically “this for that.” In the context of workplace sexual harassment, it usually plays out when a manager or any other superior offers you a raise, a promotion or other employment benefits in exchange for sexual favors. Your success in your career should not rest on your willingness to compromise yourself with your superiors at work.
Hostile Working Environment
As the name suggests, a hostile working environment occurs when sexual comments, digital communications or other forms of communication are inherently sexual in tone and pervasive in a way that makes you uncomfortable coming into work. Instances of inappropriate touch, innuendo and any other sexual behavior can make a working environment difficult to deal with, and you shouldn’t have to.
Balanced, Focused Representation
Victims of sexual harassment face unique challenges. While there is nothing we can do to reverse the pain you have experienced, we can help you obtain justice and compensation. You have rights in the workplace, and we can work with your employer to come to a fair and appropriate settlement for you. If that doesn’t work, we can take your claim to court and get you the compensation you deserve.
When we are representing victims of sexual harassment, our goal is to find an equitable solution as efficiently as possible. Whether through settlement negotiations or a courtroom trial, we will get the results you need.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Harassment
Do you have questions after experiencing sexual harassment? Our attorneys can answer your questions.
If I have been sexually harassed at work, what should I do?
Document everything. Keep records of dates, times, what was said or done and who was involved or present as witnesses. Preserve any relevant emails, text messages, notes, photos or other physical documentation. Report the harassment per your company’s policies. You have a right to expect your employer to investigate and take corrective action.
What if my employer doesn’t do anything to stop the sexual harassment?
Continue to document everything, including your employer’s response (or lack of a response) to your complaint. You can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MMCR). You should also speak to an attorney to learn about your rights after an employer fails to respond appropriately to a sexual harassment complaint.
Do I need to provide evidence for a sexual harassment case?
Yes. When filing a sexual harassment case, all of the evidence you have proving the existence of workplace harassment can strengthen your case. Some types of evidence you may need to gather include:
- Emails or texts including unwelcome advances, inappropriate remarks or offensive behavior
- Photographs of objects left on your desk or in your locker or inappropriate notes
- Written statements from other employees who have seen incidents of harassment
- Audio or video recordings of verbal remarks or inappropriate actions
- Physical evidence such as inappropriate gifts
Gather as much evidence as you can and work with an experienced attorney to gather the rest.
How long do I have to report sexual harassment in the workplace?
In Maryland, if you experience sexual harassment at work, you typically have 300 days from the date of the last incident of harassment to file a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or 180 days with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MMCR). Failing to file a claim within the statute of limitations can prevent you from holding harassers accountable for their actions and seeking compensation.
Contact Us
Talk with a lawyer from our firm to learn more about your rights and options. Call 301-664-4848 or email our office to schedule a consultation.