Every employee, whether an executive, manager or worker, is covered under federal and state laws designed to protect victims of unwanted sexual advances and hostile work environments. Unfortunately, despite a continuing awareness of the emotional and professional impact of sexual harassment, it still persists in the workplace today. Sexual harassment can take both pronounced and subtle forms. This area of the law continues to expand as men bring claims against women, and by employees of the same gender.

If you have been victimized by sexual harassment and are considering a lawsuit, contact The Harman Firm, P.C., Attorneys and Counselors at Law. As an experienced team of employment lawyers and New York City litigators, The Harman Firm, P.C. offers supportive counsel to the victims of harassment.

Sexual Harassment in the New York City Metropolitan Area

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has defined sexual harassment as “unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature” when such behavior affects an individual’s employment or creates an intimidating or offensive workplace environment. While state laws vary, sexual harassment constitutes discrimination under the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

As a result federal and state courts have recognized two forms of sexual harassment claims:

‘Quid Pro Quo’ Claims—Employees may have a claim against their workplace when an authoritative figure requests sexual favors or offensive touching in exchange for benefits and continued employment, promotions, raises and other favors.

Hostile Work Environment Claims—Unlike Quid Pro Quo claims, a hostile work environment results from inappropriate behaviors in the workplace, which may offend and intimidate other workers, denying individuals the respect every individual deserves in the workplace.

Despite intricate federal and state laws that define harassment, identifying and offering proof of sexual harassment can be complicated and may ultimately determine how (or if) an individual pursues their case.  Under the New York City Human Administrative Law, New York courts, for example, have determined that sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual conduct, while the U.S. Supreme Court requires employees to follow specific approaches to confronting sexual harassers, including speaking up and filing a claim with the EEOC.

Retaining an experienced attorney to handle sexual harassment lawsuits is essential to finding compensation for one's injuries, including reinstatement, back pay, damages for emotional distress, implementation of policies and attorney fees. The Harman Firm. offers the experience, support, and dedication you need.

The Harman Firm serves the New York metropolitan area including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Westchester, White Plains, Nassau and Suffolk Counties.