What Is Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
Sexual harassment in the workplace is a form of discrimination that violates both federal and Washington state laws. Unfortunately, it is one of the most widespread and detrimental types of workplace discrimination and remains common in both small and large companies. If you have been the victim of sexual harassment, call Emery | Reddy, PLLC today to speak to an experienced Intake Specialist and to learn how we may be able to help you with your claim.
Some examples of sexual harassment in the workplace include the following:
- Sharing inappropriate photos or videos
- Sending suggestive emails
- Making inappropriate sexual comments
- Repeatedly telling lewd or offensive jokes
- Asking for a sexual favor or date
- Staring or making sexual gestures
- Touching your body, clothing, or hair in any way that makes you uncomfortable
- Sexual assault
Victims and harassers can be any gender identity or sexual orientation. A harasser could be a supervisor, a co-worker, or a client.
What Can I Do If I’m Being Sexually Harassed at Work?
Many victims of sexual harassment don’t report what’s happening because they are afraid of retaliation or being wrongfully terminated. However, the behavior is unlikely to stop unless it is reported or the victim or harasser leaves the company.
If you’ve asked for the behavior to stop and are still being harassed at work, start by contacting a Sexual Harassment attorney. They can help you understand your options, how to stop the harassment, and how to preserve your claims for trial if you choose to pursue legal action, especially if you experience retaliation or wrongful termination for reporting harassment.
Additional Steps
- Consult human resources: Check your employee handbook to learn and understand your company’s policy about sexual harassment and how to report it. Discuss the situation with HR or a trusted individual at work if you feel comfortable.
- Document the harassment: Make record of when it happens, what is said, and who is present or nearby. Keep copies of any inappropriate media sent or shared with you. (Please note that in Washington state, it is illegal to record another person without their consent).
- Seek support: Sexual harassment can take a huge toll on you emotionally. Talk to a therapist or trusted friend or family member to help process what is happening.
Do I Need to Hire a Sexual Harassment Attorney?
If you have tried to work things out with your employer and nothing has been done, then it’s time to consult with an experienced Seattle Sexual Harassment attorney. Employment Law is complicated and can be overwhelming for anyone not familiar with it. Trying to hold a company accountable for bad business practices requires a skilled attorney to navigate the different laws and tactics an employer may use.
Emery | Reddy has decades of experience in Employment Law and an unmatched record of helping Washington state workers get the justice they deserve in labor violations. Call for a Free Case Review to speak to an experienced Intake Specialist and learn more about your rights.
Want More Information?
A whistleblower is someone who reports illegal, unsafe, or unethical practices by a company. It is illegal for employers to retaliate against their employees, and Washington state has laws in place that protect whistleblowers, in particular.
A document review is a comprehensive consultation and analysis of your document’s legal language, context, and impact on your worker’s rights as an employee of Washington state.
While Washington is at an at-will employment state, it is still possible to be unlawfully fired. If you believe you are a victim of wrongful termination, you need an aggressive and experienced legal team to fight for the justice you deserve.
We fight for you
Meet the Team
The Sexual Harassment Attorneys at Emery | Reddy, PLLC are passionate about helping workers with employment law issues and L&I claims. We Help Workers®. It’s our motto and what drives us every day.
We know how companies think, and we understand the tactics they use. Our Sexual Harassment Attorneys use that knowledge coupled with over three decades of experience to help our clients get access to the benefits to which they are legally entitled and hold employers accountable when they break the law.
If you’re struggling with an employment issue, injury, or L&I claim, call us for a Free Case Review with an experienced Intake Specialist to learn more about how Emery | Reddy may be able help you today.
“Working with Tim and his team was an absolute pleasure. They are incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and have their client's best interests at heart. I highly recommend them!”
— Tabitha G.
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