Recognizing Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment in the workplace can take many forms. Sexual harassment includes unwelcome conduct such as sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or dates, remarks about an individual’s appearance, remarks or jokes of a sexual nature, and/or other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature. The harasser can be the victim's supervisor, a supervisor in another area, a co-worker, or someone who is not an employee of the employer, such as a client, vendor, or customer.
Unwelcomed touching can be considered sexual harassment, as well as any other physically intrusive behavior of a sexual nature could be considered an illegal form of harassment and should not be tolerated in the workplace.
When verbal comments such as jokes and compliments regarding someone’s body are made to someone who has indicated that they are unwelcome or offensive, the comments may constitute unlawful behavior under anti-discrimination laws. Additionally, if the person making the comments has power over another person's career trajectory, it could rise to legal liability even if they do not have negative intent behind their words.
If you are facing harassment at work, it’s important to take action. You have the right to make it known that the conduct is unwelcome and to report the offending conduct. Our experienced employment lawyers will help you navigate these sensitive situations and ensure that your rights are upheld.
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