Sexual harassment is a serious issue. If you are the victim of sexual harassment then you can take legal action against the perpetrator. But doing so is not possible without the help of an attorney. In fact, it is essential that you speak with a sexual harassment attorney before you raise the issue at work.
Here’s more on the necessity of hiring a sexual harassment attorney.
Guidance about the Matter
You will need to ascertain if the action against you qualifies as sexual harassment as per the law. If not then the attorney can tell you about your options. If yes then to you have the legal recourse of filing a lawsuit and perhaps go through a trial.
Laws about sexual harassment can differ from state to state. So, ensure that you consult with a local attorney only. Use online searches to find a good local attorney. Location-based searches can help; so use keywords such as sexual harassment attorney Los Angeles. You can then check the websites of law firms to find an experienced sexual harassment attorney for you.
An attorney can clarify if a single incident can also qualify as sexual harassment. You may be even able to file a complaint or charge if you witness promotions of your colleagues in lieu of sexual favors. It could be affecting your work and promotions. So, you may have legal rights here depending on your location.
The attorney will guide you about the next steps to take and how to go about it. The lawyer will advise you on documenting the conversation about the harassment that you have with your employer or supervisors.
Your attorney will monitor and review your employer’s responses. It will help to know if the employer plans to retaliate against you due to the complaint. The attorney will also guide you about the action steps to take if the harassment continues.
Help with Reporting the Issue
There are protocols in place to report cases of sexual harassment to human resources. It may also be required by law that you report the issue to the appropriate supervisor.
The attorney will outline the action steps you need to take in order to report the issue as per the laws in your state or city. The attorney will provide you with all the information you need to relay the matter to your employer. You will also be able to be ready with appropriate responses. Confidence is important when dealing with your employer when you have filed a complaint for sexual harassment. With an attorney by your side, you can have the assurance of the right kind of help.
Assistance with the Lawsuit
First, yourattorney will ensure that no retaliation occurs against you. Oftentimes, victims of sexual harassment are demoted or terminated from their jobs.
Your employer may not even investigate the matter at hand. But it is against the law if the employers do not investigate any registered complaints. If there are any discrepancies then your attorney will plan to take action accordingly.
Before you decide to file the lawsuit, your attorney may recommend registering a complaint with the state’s agency that handles discrimination at work. You may be able to approach a Federal agency too.
Filing a lawsuit can be harrowing as the negotiations can continue for long. You will need to deal with the process. Your attorney will be your ally in this stressful situation. Depending on what turn the negotiations take, you have the option to take the case to trial.
Trial
Court cases for sexual harassment can be really stressful. You will need to relive your harassment in front of many people present in court. You will need to respond to cross-examination and face your employer. Your colleagues can also act as a witness to your employer, which can be stressful to experience. You may also need witnesses of your own; an absence of which can become problematic for you. In such cases, your lawyer may use the documented conversations between you and your employer as evidence. With an attorney by your side, you will be able to withstand the legal process with somewhat ease.
