Unfortunately, sexual harassment runs rampant in the workplace. Statistics from 2019 showed that between 25 and 85 percent of women experienced some form of sexual harassment at work. What’s perhaps most sobering about these numbers is that in 2016, the EEOC learned that only 75% of those who experience unwanted sexual advances notify a supervisor. Fear of retaliation is usually cited as the reason for this.
Below, we take a look at the most common examples of sexual harassment in the workplace and what your rights are if you experience any of them.
Types of Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment can come in many forms, but all of it constitues inappropriate and unwanted behavior. As outlined under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, there are two main types of sexual harassment:
- Quid pro quo harassment, which is when someone in a supervisory role requests sexual favors in exchange for job actions. Common examples include telling someone they’ll get a raise if they sleep with them, or that they’ll be fired if they don’t.
- Hostile work environment, which is when an employee is subjected to unwelcome sexual advances, both verbal and physical, that they end up creating a hostile work environment.
It’s important to note that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act only applies to companies that employ 15 or more staff members.
Sexual Harassment Examples
The most common examples of sexual harassment include:
- Inappropriate sexual jokes
- Spreading sexual rumors about a employee
- Spreading nude or sexual photos of people around the office
- Making continuous compliments/statements about an employee’s appearance
- Asking an employee about their sex life
- Sending sexually explicit and/or suggestive text messages or emails to an employee
- Repeatedly touching an employee, including hugging them or resting a hand on their back
Basis for a Sexual Harassment Claim
In order to move forward with a sexual harassment claim in a hostile work environment, you must prove that the offender’s actions were not only offensive to you but would be considered offensive to anyone who worked there under the same circumstances.
It’s important to trust your gut if you suspect that you’re a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace. Your best defense is hiring an experienced employment law attorney to investigate the details of your claim to determine whether or not you have a case. Don’t allow this kind of treatment to go on if it’s making you uncomfortable. Contact the attorneys at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered for a consultation.
Contact A Moorestown Employment Lawyer To Discuss Your Workplace Sexual Harassment Case Today
Workplace sexual harassment or any other wrongdoing can be devastating, particularly if it prevents you from working. That is why you should speak with a knowledgeable employment lawyer about your situation and get guidance throughout the legal process. The experienced employment attorneys at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered represent clients in Moorestown, Mt. Laurel, Cherry Hill, Voorhees and all across New Jersey. Call (856) 235-0220 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a consultation about your work injury case. Our main office is located at 68 East Main Street, Moorestown, NJ 08057.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.