Workplace harassment can create a toxic environment, leading to emotional distress and impacting your ability to do your job. But when does workplace harassment cross the line into illegal behavior? Recognizing the signs and understanding your legal rights are the first steps toward protecting yourself.
What Is Workplace Harassment?
Workplace harassment happens when an employee is subjected to unwelcome behavior due to their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. This behavior becomes illegal when:
- It creates a hostile work environment, or
- Enduring the offensive conduct becomes a condition of continued employment.
Hostile Work Environment Harassment
A hostile work environment occurs when harassment is so severe or pervasive that it interferes with your job performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work setting. Examples include:
- Offensive jokes or slurs
- Physical assaults or threats
- Intimidation, insults, or ridicule
- Inappropriate images or objects displayed in the workplace
Quid Pro Quo Harassment
This type of harassment happens when employment decisions, such as promotions or job security, are contingent on your acceptance of unwelcome sexual advances or other inappropriate demands.
Does It Have to Be Repeated to Be Illegal?
While harassment is often illegal due to its repeated nature, a single severe incident—like an assault—can also cross the legal line.
Steps to Take If You’re Harassed
If you’re experiencing workplace harassment, here’s what to do:
- Document the Behavior: Keep detailed records of the harassment, including dates, times, locations, and witnesses.
- Report the Harassment: Notify your supervisor or HR department about the situation. Make sure to follow your company’s reporting procedures.
- File an EEOC Complaint: If your employer doesn’t resolve the issue, consider filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
When to Consult an Employment Lawyer
If your employer retaliates or fails to address the harassment, speaking with an experienced wrongful termination and harassment attorney can make all the difference. An attorney can:
- Explain your rights
- Guide you through the legal process
- Help you pursue compensation for damages like lost wages and emotional distress
Don’t Tolerate Workplace Harassment
No one should have to endure harassment at work. If you believe the behavior you’re experiencing is illegal, don’t wait—take action to protect your rights.
Contact Granovsky & Sundaresh today. eel free to call us in New York City (646.524.6001) or Cleveland, Ohio (216.600.7994) or contact us any time. Our experienced employment attorneys specialize in workplace harassment and wrongful termination cases. We’re here to fight for you and hold employers accountable.