Sexual harassment takes form in all different ways. In fact, one in three women between the ages of 18 and 34 has been harassed in the workplace, according to the Huffington Post article.
The most common types of sexual harassment experienced in a workplace include:
- Gender Harassment. This occurs when a coworker or employer makes a derogatory comment or uses inappropriate language.
- Sexual Bribery: If a coworker or employer offers something in exchange for a sexual favor this would be sexual harassment. Even if the sexual act was consensual or never happened, the offer of a quid pro quo is a form of sexual harassment.
- Sexual Coercion: This is similar to sexual bribery but instead of a reward the harasser offers only punishment if you do not cooperate. This could include being taken off of assignments, moved to a different office, reduce number of vacation or sick days, or any number of other punishments.
- Inappropriate Jokes: Comments or jokes to you or others or about you or someone else that are sexual in nature is considered sexual harassment.
- Inappropriate Touching: Any unwanted or uninvited touching, sexual touching, or assault.
- Inappropriate Behavior: Inappropriate behavior would be any sexual behavior not appropriate for the workplace such as phone calls, texts, emails insistently inquiring about a date, comments about your looks, or anything similar.
The biggest take away is that ignoring the problem will not make it go away. It is natural to want to put your head in the sand and ignore the problem because we do not like to create confrontation. However, victims of sexual harassment will only find peace in the workplace once they speak up against their abuser and seek the proper remedies. Ignoring a harasser only provides the perpetrator with a sense of security that they can continue their behavior with you and potentially with others as well.
It does not matter if you are a female or male, no one has the right to subject you to inappropriate language or actions in the workplace by the workers, clients, or superiors.
At Bautista LeRoy LLC, we have extensive experience investigating and prosecuting sexual harassment claims. When you hire our firm, we will advance all costs associated with representing the client. If we do not win your case, the firm takes on the losses of the litigation costs. In fact, we only get compensated when we win the case. Simple as that. Give us a call at or contact us online.
Summary
There have been many reports of sexual harassment in different workspaces. These always start with uncomfortable jokes and careless moments. No employee should tolerate this kind of behavior and speak up if they feel harassed by their boss or colleagues. The attorneys of Bautista LeRoy LLC have long been protecting vulnerable individuals in sexual harassment cases.
Sexual harassment can happen in many ways, but all of these can create a harmful environment:
- Gender harassment
- Sexual bribery
- Sexual coercion
- Sexual jokes or comments
- Unwanted touching
- Persistent inappropriate behavior
Here are the things that you can do:
- Prioritize your safety
- Document what happened
- Review your workplace policies
- Report the incident
- Seek support
- File a formal complaint
- Consult an attorney
After experiencing sexual harassment inside your workplace, find legal support to protect yourself and others. You can always count on the legal team of Bautista LeRoy LLC. Call us at 816-221-0382 or visit www.bautistaleroy.com to start the legal process.
What can an attorney who specializes in sexual harassment do for you?
An attorney can protect the victims of sexual harassment or abuse and help them with:
- Legal Advice and Strategy
- Documentation and Evidence
- Reporting and Filing
- Negotiation
- Litigation
- Retaliation Protection
What pieces of evidence can support a victim's statement about sexual harassment or abuse?
- Messages
- Emails
- Witness statements
- Photos
- Work records
- Personal notes
Should I report the incident to my employer?
Some companies require internal reports. But speaking with an attorney first will help you understand whether reporting internally is wise or if legal paths are safer.
Will the process of a sexual harassment and abuse case remain confidential?
Attorneys take these matters with strict privacy. The conversation between them and their clients will be protected. Attorneys will take legal strategies that aim to shield the victim's reputation.
Can victims still file a case if it happened years ago?
The law allows them to file a claim within the statute of limitations, which varies in every state. There are also situations where legal deadlines are extended, especially if the victim was receiving threats or just afraid to report. A capable attorney can review the details if legal action is still possible.
