If you’re like most employees, you want to go to work, do your job well, and go home without incident at the end of the day. Unfortunately, however, you may be unable to do so if you experience sexual harassment while on the job. If you believe you have experienced sexual harassment at your workplace, it’s critical to understand that you have a number of rights and legal protections. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the importance of connecting with a sexual harassment attorney in Gloucester County, NJ to help you understand your rights and fight for the justice you deserve.
What Constitutes Sexual Harassment Under New Jersey Law?
Generally, there are two different types of sexual harassment employees can face in the workplace. The first is referred to as quid pro quo harassment. This occurs when a higher-up, whether it’s your supervisor, manager, or a division leader, implies that any aspect of your employment is dependent upon whether or not you agree to their sexual advances. This can include threatening to fire or demote you, holding a raise or promotion over your head, or even offering special perks or benefits in exchange for your willingness to engage in sexual activities.
The other form of sexual harassment you can face occurs when someone creates a hostile work environment. This form of harassment is not limited to your higher-ups, but can come from anyone involved in your company, from coworkers and contractors to vendors and clients. Generally, anytime there are repeated sexual comments, jokes, inappropriate touching, or intimidation that makes it difficult or uncomfortable for you to do your job, it can be considered sexual harassment.
Common examples include comments about your physical appearance, asking inappropriate questions, uncomfortable physical contact, or even retaliation after rejecting sexual advances.
Do I Have Legal Rights If I Experience Sexual Harassment at Work?
While experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace can feel isolating, it’s critical to understand that there are several laws in place that protect your rights in the workplace. Under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, you’ll find that it is illegal for employers, regardless of how many employees they have, to tolerate sexual harassment of any kind in the workplace. Additionally, this makes it
Federally, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits sexual harassment in the workplace in organizations with 15 or more employees. As such, you are able to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission if you experience harassment in the workplace.
At the Vigilante Law Firm, P.C., we believe no one should be afraid to go to work. That is why our team takes pride in representing and fighting for those who have faced harassment in the workplace. If you are the victim of sexually-charged harassment, do not hesitate to contact our team today to learn how we can fight for you during these overwhelming and stressful times.
