No matter your role or the sector of employment in New Jersey, you deserve a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. If you believe you have suffered sexual harassment at work and are wondering what you can do next to take proper legal steps, your best resource is an experienced employment attorney. Law firms like Sattiraju & Tharney have worked for employees for years and have a capable legal team to aid with various concerns. In this post, we have enlisted what you can do to address sexual harassment.
Understanding sexual harassment
First and foremost, you need to know what constitutes sexual harassment in the state. If your supervisor asks for sexual favors for a promotion, it is a case of quid pro quo harassment. On the other hand, if you were subjected to jokes, comments, or unwelcome advances, it is a case of a hostile work environment. There is plenty of free information on the internet, and it is wise to do some initial research.
Keep records
Just saying that you were sexually harassed is not enough. You need evidence. Depending on the circumstances, you might want to have clear records of different incidents and use a diary to keep a tab of location, dates, and timings. You may also want to check whether there were witnesses, such as your colleagues, who can be resourceful as you take further action.
Report the matter
Employers must have a policy in place to address matters concerning sexual harassment. There are protocols that you can follow to report the case and ensure you do that in writing. Also, you should keep a copy of your complaint and everything else related to the procedure. In the ideal situation, your employer will take appropriate steps to provide justice.
Meet an attorney
As stated above, you need to see an attorney to know about filing a sexual harassment complaint. They will tell you whether you have done enough to inform your employer and whether the action taken by the employer is adequate. If the company didn’t do its part, you can file a complaint with the DCR or the EEOC, for which your attorney will help. You have to file the complaint within 300 days if you decide to file the sexual harassment complaint with the EEOC.
It is also wise to cooperate with the investigations. Your company may come up with a team to look into the allegations, and you should be as vocal and honest as possible.
