Cherry Hill Sexual Harassment Lawyer

When you head into the workplace, you expect to be able to do your job. But what happens when you are the subject of sexual harassment? These words and actions can make an impact on your mental health, career, and quality of life.

What are your options? You could report the incident, but sometimes, your employer may not take the appropriate action to stop the harassment.

In these cases, you have legal rights, and there are resources available to assist you. Let your voice be heard and hold these individuals accountable for their harassment. With the help of an experienced Cherry Hill sexual harassment lawyer, you can get justice and ensure a safer workplace for everyone. If you would like to know more about your options, contact the Folkman Law team.

Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

Any type of unwelcome or inappropriate behavior of a sexual nature that creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive work environment is sexual harassment. This can take many forms, from physical actions to verbal words. While most people think that only supervisors are responsible, clients, coworkers, and third-party vendors can also be sexual perpetrators.

Sexual harassment can fall into two categories: quid pro quo or hostile work environment.

With quid pro quo, this happens when someone in a position of power asks for sexual favors. This is done in exchange for a promotion, favorable work assignments, or other job-related benefits. In many cases, if the individual refuses to comply, that can lead to negative consequences, like a demotion or job termination.

On the other hand, any behavior that creates an intimidating or offensive work environment falls into the hostile workplace category. While this harassment does not require a direct threat to employment status, it can still affect workers’ morale. Often, workers will be subjected to persistent inappropriate comments, jokes, or physical advances.

Are There Any Legal Protections That Protect Individuals From Being Sexually Harassed?

In Cherry Hill, victims of sexual harassment are protected under several federal and state employment laws, such as:

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: This federal law prohibits discrimination based on sex, including sexual harassment. Title VII covers businesses with 15 or more employees. Along with that, it protects against harassment and discrimination in hiring, promotion, pay, and other employment terms. Under Title VII, employers are required to take steps to prevent and correct harassing behavior.
• New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD): On a state level, New Jersey has additional protections for employees under the NJLAD. This law prohibits discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, and other protected characteristics. The law covers all employers, no matter the size of the business.
• New Jersey Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA): Additionally, the CEPA protects employees from retaliation if they report illegal or unethical workplace practices, including harassment.

If you have been the target of unwanted sexually-oriented treatment in the workplace, you have options. Reach out to our Cherry Hill sexual harassment lawyer to find out more.

What To Do If You Are Facing Sexual Harassment

If you are experiencing sexual harassment. You might feel alone. However, there are steps to take to protect your rights in your NJ workplace. These include:

• Document all the incidents: You will want to keep a detailed record of each incident, including dates, times, places, and the individuals involved. Make sure to include any witnesses to the behavior and a description of what occurred. If you were sent any text messages, emails, or social media messages with harassing content, save them to a personal account.
• Report the behavior: Most companies have procedures for reporting sexual harassment. You can find these requirements in an employee handbook. You might have to notify your supervisor, human resources department, or another official. You will want to follow this process so that you can demonstrate that the employer was made aware of the behavior.
• Seek support: Harassment can have emotional and psychological effects. You will want to consider getting support from friends, family, or a counselor.
• Consult a lawyer: An experienced Cherry Hill sexual harassment attorney can provide guidance on how to proceed and represent you in negotiations or legal proceedings.

Why You Need a Cherry Hill Sexual Harassment Lawyer

These cases can be extremely complex, and sometimes, the employer will try to dispute the facts of the claim. For this reason, you will want to have an experienced sexual harassment lawyer in Cherry Hill assist you. They can be beneficial for a variety of reasons, such as:

• Case evaluation: During an initial consultation, your sexual harassment attorney will assess the strength of your case. They can advise you on the best course of action. With that, you will know your rights and options.
• Gathering evidence: A lawyer can help collect and organize evidence to support your claim, including witness statements, company policies, and other documents that show the harassment.
• Negotiating with the employer: In some cases, employers may be willing to settle outside of court. Your Cherry Hill sexual harassment lawyer will negotiate with the employer or their representatives on your behalf to seek fair compensation for your damages.
• Representing you in court: If settlement negotiations do not yield satisfactory results, your lawyer can file a lawsuit on your behalf. They will build a strong case for you and advocate for your rights in a Camden County courtroom.

What Type of Compensation Is Available to Victims of Sexual Harassment in NJ?

Similar to a personal injury lawsuit, these cases allow you to pursue compensation from those who may have wronged you. In these situations, it could be against the perpetrators of the harassment and your company if they failed to protect you. Some of the available compensation may include:

• Lost wages: If harassment caused you to leave your job or prevented you from working effectively, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages.
• Medical expenses: Some victims require counseling or therapy due to the trauma they experienced, and you may seek compensation to cover these expenses.
• Emotional distress: Often, victims may seek compensation for the mental anguish and suffering caused by the harassment.

Reach out to a sexual harassment lawyer in Cherry Hill to discover whether you qualify for compensation.

Holding Harassers Accountable

When sexual harassment occurs, it doesn’t just affect one person, but it can make an impact on the entire workforce. Taking legal action against harassment isn’t just about seeking justice for yourself. You can take the steps to stop future incidents.

When harassers and negligent employers face consequences, it sends a message that this behavior won’t be tolerated. Holding these parties accountable helps to promote a safer workplace culture. In turn, that can benefit current and future employees.