Morgantown Sexual Harassment Lawyer

Morgantown Sexual Harassment Attorney

Unfortunately, sexual harassment is prevalent in many workplaces, although employees are often reluctant to report it. It can be daunting to report harassment from a coworker or an employer due to fear of retaliation or dismissal. Wherever you work, you have a right to a safe work environment free of sexual harassment. A Morgantown sexual harassment lawyer from Crowe Law, LLC, can help you pursue legal action as a victim of workplace sexual harassment.

Types of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

Sexual harassment can manifest in various ways in the workplace, and some may not realize it’s happening. Some forms of sexual harassment in the workplace can include:

• Inappropriate or lewd comments from a coworker
• Emailing obscene pictures and messages
• Being grabbed or groped
• Sexual jokes
• Exposing oneself
• Negative comments directed toward a person or group because of their gender

No matter how small or seemingly insignificant the offense is, it can create a hostile work environment for everyone involved. Hostile work environments can affect the wellbeing of employees, resulting in decreased productivity, heightened emotional tension, and lack of safety.

It is important to prevent sexual harassment by addressing it when it happens. Bystanders may choose to intervene or offer the harassed coworker a helping hand. You should report the incident to the human resources department or consult with an attorney to decide how to proceed.

While sexual harassment can happen to anyone, it can be especially challenging to speak up about an incident involving a superior. Employees might fear retaliation from their employers and choose not to pursue legal action; however, speaking up can result in the implementation of regulations that make work conditions for everyone.

What Is Quid Pro Quo Harassment?

Quid pro quo harassment is a specific type of workplace sexual harassment in which something is offered or promised by a supervisor in exchange for a sexual favor from an employee. Sexual acts can be coerced by a supervisor by leveraging an employee’s current job or offering them something better, like a promotion or a raise. Quid pro quo harassment cases are subject to specific requirements, but they are just as inclined to legal action.

Sexual Assault vs. Sexual Harassment

There are a few key differences between sexual assault and sexual harassment. Harassment is a broad label that covers unwelcome sexual attention and communication. It typically violates civil laws but does not violate criminal laws. Adversely, incidents of sexual assault violate criminal laws and are often physical. Sexual assault can be:

• Rape or attempted rape
• Forcing someone to perform a sexual act
• Unwanted physical, sexual contact

Both include situations that can leave a victim shaken and traumatized. Remember that you are not alone during your pursuit of justice. A sexual harassment lawyer can be emotionally supportive and compassionate toward your experiences.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Workplace Harassment?

To pursue legal charges for workplace sexual harassment, you must establish liability. The following parties can potentially be held liable:

• Employers
• Supervisors
• Harassers

Harassers are the individuals who committed the offense and are not always supervisors or people of higher rank. Employers may be held liable for the actions of their employees (supervisory and non-supervisory) if they knew about the harassment and neglected to prevent it or take action against it.

How We Fight Sexual Harassment in Court

If you have been the victim of sexual harassment in your workplace, it is beneficial to seek legal representation before pursuing further action. While you need to report incidents of harassment within your workplace, knowing the right steps to take and how to protect yourself is better accomplished with the guidance of a lawyer.

When we take on a sexual harassment case, we look at all the facts of your case. Written evidence, witness testimony, and surveillance footage can all be used to prove the validity and severity of your claim in court. Crowe Law, LLC, can help you build a compelling case and improve your chance of success during court proceedings. We can provide:

• Honest and empathetic discussion about the circumstances of your case
• A comprehensive understanding of harassment laws and court systems
• Aggressive advocacy during any potential court proceedings

FAQs

What Constitutes Sexual Harassment in WV?

In West Virginia, sexual harassment is constituted by unwanted sexual advances or sexual conduct. Repetition is often key to proving sexual harassment in the workplace, but it is not necessary, especially when the behavior is documented or witnessed by others. Consistent incidents of harassment can make it easier to gather proof when you are pursuing legal action.

What Are the Two Types of Sexual Harassment?

The two types of sexual harassment are quid pro quo and hostile work environment. Quid pro quo harassment occurs when an employment decision, such as a promotion or raise, is tied to submission to sexual conduct or advances. Hostile work environment harassment occurs when sexual conduct creates a hostile, intimidating, or abusive work environment that affects employees’ ability to work.

What Should I Do if I Am Being Sexually Harassed at Work?

If you are being sexually harassed at work, be sure to document each incident, including all relevant details, keep a record of any inappropriate conduct, behaviors, and communications, and report the harassment to HR or your supervisor. You may also want to contact an attorney to understand your legal options.

Can I Be Retaliated Against for Reporting Sexual Harassment at Work?

You cannot legally be retaliated against for reporting sexual harassment at work in Morgantown, WV. It is unlawful for an employer to retaliate against an employee in any way for reporting sexual harassment. If you face retaliation, such as demotion, unfair treatment, or termination, you may be able to file a retaliation claim with the help of a lawyer.

Contact Crowe Law, LLC

Following a sexual harassment incident at your workplace, it can seem tiresome to pursue legal action alone. A Morgantown sexual harassment lawyer can help shoulder some of the burden and fight for the justice you deserve. At Crowe Law, LLC, we handle sexual harassment cases with sensitivity and compassion, and we are not afraid to advocate aggressively for you in court. To discuss your unique case, reach out to us today to schedule a consultation.