Did you know? Every year in the U.S., there are more than 433,000 sexual assault or rape cases among people age 12 and older are reported. Even 81% of women and 43% of men also admit that they have faced sexual harassment or an assault at some point.
This data shows how sexual harassment and assault are more common than many think. Besides this, workplace sexual harassment creates an uncomfortable environment that can harm your safety, job, and peace of mind.
Initially, it might be normal to feel scared, confused, or even ashamed. But as a victim, you should remember that you have the right to stand up for yourself. For this, you can report to the supervisors.
If this is not enough, go to https://www.employment-counsel.com/, and take a sexual harassment lawyer’s help to navigate the steps.
Let’s decode what a sexual harassment lawyer can do for your case.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- You have the right to work in an environment free from sexual harassment, and you can report the incident to HR or legal authorities.
- A sexual harassment lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather and analyze evidence, and guide you through the legal process.
- They also help with negotiations and the court, challenging witnesses, and making your case stronger.
- Beyond legal support, your lawyer may help you emotionally by sharing resources like a therapist and group support.
- Acting fast and collecting strong evidence, like written messages and witness statements, can be a master key to proving your case.
Study your rights, options, and the steps that you can take. A work setting that is free from harassment should be set up by employers for their workers.
Review your company’s harassment policy, then talk to your immediate superiors or the Human Resources Department if sexual harassment has occurred in your workplace. In the event, your case is not properly investigated, you could seek legal action.
Both federal and state legislation provide employees with protection against sexual harassment. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act is a constitutional provision that makes workplace sexual harassment illegal. You can take appropriate actions to pursue justice if you know what you are entitled to.
Set up an appointment with an experienced lawyer specializing in sexual harassment as soon as possible if you find yourself being sexually harassed abusively at work.
MPORTANT FACT
“Experts estimate that 75% of harassment victims never file a complaint.”
Solid evidence can strengthen sexual harassment allegations. Thus, record the date, time, and place for each sexual harassment incident.
Proceed to sort through every piece of email, text communication, or social media text that could potentially serve as evidence of the harassment. Ask your coworkers if they witnessed anything that could help your case and if they can testify.
Document the event in association with any follow-up actions, such as speaking to the department of human resources.
The evidence you collect will eventually make the case stronger, allowing the attorney to gain better insight into what happened. You can help bring about justice by assembling evidence ahead of time. Your lawyer will present your story to underscore how the incident affected your daily life.
Before proceeding, you must know the type of harassment in the workplace you are able to file a complaint. Here is a quick view through this infographic attached below.
You can be less preyed upon by the legal process by acquainting yourself with local sexual harassment laws that are relevant to your case. Understanding what you are rightfully entitled to will enable you to make well-informed decisions.
Call a sexual harassment law professional for aid with the complex claim process, including time constraints and documentation. They will help you choose mediation, arbitration, or legal proceedings. Each solution has advantages and disadvantages that will become clear based on your scenario.
Your sexual harassment lawyer can instruct you on which behavior exhibited by your harasser qualifies as a crime. For instance, if it is proven that you were physically harmed, the harasser can also face a sentence for battery.
Organize and follow your experiences and communications pertaining to your case in detail. Such preparation can go a long way toward solidifying your case as you go forward.
Negotiations and court proceedings require effective accompaniment from an individual after you have communicated with a sexual harassment attorney and determined the best course of action.
Your lawyer runs as a champion for your rights by preparing you for negotiations, considering what you should expect and what you should do.
If an evidentiary hearing is held, your lawyer will generally examine and challenge witnesses and highlight the statements and evidence that favor you the most. It may be challenging, but your attorney will explain all procedures and seek the best solution to your problem.
Your lawyer will fight passionately for your interests in settlement or at trial.
More than just being a judicial representative, lawyers can act as your intellectual support and provide you with the appropriate resources to help you cope with the situation.
Your lawyer acknowledged that the process could be heavy on your emotions. When they listen to you and validate your experiences, it will help lessen your burden.
They will give you a list of the names of psychologists, support societies, and various therapy options to build your emotional strength while undergoing the recovery process.
You should have your lawyer carry out the legal functions so that you can focus on recovering from the distressing event.
Investing in a lawyer can give you the confidence to stand up for your rights and talk about sexual harassment issues in your workplace.
Ans: You have the right to file a complaint with your HR department or manager. In case they don’t fix the problem. you can file a charge or take legal action.
Ans: Lawyers who handle sexual harassment cases often charge after you win or settle the case. It’s usually 30% to 40% of the settlement money.
Ans: The evidence can include emails, text messages, or notes that show unwanted advances. Along with witness statements from coworkers can be helpful too.
Ans: The time depends on how complex the case is. Some cases can be settled in a few months if everything is clear. Other cases may take a year or more if they go to court.
