Choosing a Sexual Harassment Lawyer
If you find yourself in the difficult position of filing a sexual harassment claim, you should contact a sexual harassment lawyers immediately. You should always contact your Human Resources department if you think you have been harassed, but you should also consult an attorney at this point. That way, if HR doesn’t respond appropriately, or the situation persists or escalates, you’re ready to take the next step.
There are two types of sexual harassment: quid-pro-quo (or this-for-that) and hostile environment. Quid pro quo is the exchange of sexual favors for a benefit, such as B. to be hired or promoted. In this situation, the victim can sue, regardless of whether they agree to the scheme or not. Other employees who are aware of the situation can also sue, as sexual favoritism is against the law.
A hostile environment is an environment in which an employee feels uncomfortable because of the words or actions of an employer or colleague, usually of a sexual nature. The classic example is jokes or comments of a sexual nature. Any employee who is offended can report sexual harassment. This means that if two employees tell jokes, but a third employee who overhears them feels offended, they can still sue. Offensive comments or actions that reflect an employee’s race, sexual orientation, gender, or religion are also considered a hostile environment and are punishable by law.
In addition to notifying your company’s human resources department and consulting an attorney, you should document the situation. Keep track of the times and details of each event and keep copies of any offensive emails or pictures. This will help present your case and help your attorney make a decision about your case.
A lawyer can also help determine whether other unlawful acts, such as discrimination, have taken place alongside the harassment. This is fairly common and can strengthen your case and qualify you for additional comparisons.
When it comes to choosing your lawyer, if possible, get a referral from someone you trust. Even if you don’t have a referral, speak to several different attorneys before making your decision. Select those who advertise their experience in the field of sexual harassment, not just employment law.
Ask how much experience each attorney has with cases like yours and what the outcomes have been. You should feel completely comfortable talking to your attorney, including about the sexual details of the case. So if you don’t have a relationship with a particular lawyer, he or she is not the best choice for you.
A sexual harassment attorney has the experience and expertise to determine if you have a valid claim, whether or not other illegal acts have occurred, and how best to present your case for maximum redress. It’s not easy or pleasant, but if you were a victim, you deserve compensation. Let your lawyer help you with this.