Manhattan Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment can occur anytime someone in the workplace crosses the line by making inappropriate sexual commentary, conduct, advances, or innuendo directed at someone else. In many cases, the perpetrator is in a position of authority over the victim, and attempts to leverage that power in order to take advantage of the victim’s discomfort. Sexual harassment can also potentially lead to unlawful retaliation after the victim rejects these sexual advances. If you feel that you have been a victim of sexual harassment at your job, contact the experienced Manhattan sexual harassment attorneys at Phillips & Associates.

Laws in Manhattan Prohibit Sexual Harassment

Federal and New York State laws prohibit sexual harassment, which is considered a form of gender discrimination, as it is conduct of a harassing nature that is based upon the victim’s gender. It doesn’t have to occur in the office or place of work to fall within this prohibition. Additionally, it isn’t always necessarily as blatantly obvious as inappropriate physical contact. It can involve inappropriate innuendo or insulting remarks made in front of co-workers.

All forms of gender discrimination, including sexual harassment, are prohibited under federal law by Title VII of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964. Federal sexual harassment claims fall within the jurisdiction of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Additionally, New York’s Human Rights Law and the New York City Human Rights Law also outlaw sexual harassment, and apply to more employers than the Civil Rights Act, as they apply to companies with fewer employees than their federal counterparts.

Is it Sexual Harassment?

If you have suspicions that you are being sexually harassed, there is a good chance that you are. Inappropriate and suggestive behavior in the workplace can take many different forms, and is always unlawful. This is true whether a supervisor or other co-worker is making decisions relating to employment contingent upon the return of sexual favors or behavior, or is creating a hostile work environment.

Some examples of sexual harassment in a Manhattan workplace may include, but are not limited to:

• A supervisor suggesting that promotion is contingent upon the victim engaging in certain sexual behaviors.
• Inappropriate discussion or questioning regarding an individual’s sexual history.
• Emailing or texting inappropriate comments or otherwise sexually suggestive content.
• Circulation of sexual images, jokes, or videos, whether originated from the sender or some other source.
• Threatening to socially isolate or embarrass the victim if they do not submit to or go along with the perpetrator’s demands.

The EEOC prohibits all forms of sexual harassment. Also, many people are surprised to learn that sexual harassment is not limited to opposite-gendered exchanges. Same gender sexual harassment is also common and actionable.

Experienced Manhattan Sexual Harassment Attorneys

Sexual harassment lawsuits can be difficult for the victims. By providing evidence and testimony, they can feel as though they are reliving these difficult experiences. Additionally, because of the personal nature of the claims, sexual harassment cases can become incredibly contentious and emotional.

Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to hire an experienced Manhattan sexual harassment attorney who can help anticipate any potential evidentiary objections, and who will understand the difficulty of making these allegations relating to your workplace.

While we at Phillips & Associates believe that no one should be subjected to sexual harassment, we are also sensitive to the discomforts relating to pursuing a sexual harassment claim. We are dedicated advocates, and have substantial experience in litigating harassment and discrimination claims on behalf of our clients. If you believe you have been a victim of sexual harassment, fill out and submit our online Contact Us form or call (866) 229-9441 today in order to set up your free and confidential initial consultation.