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Sexual Harassment

CHARLESTON SEXUAL HARASSMENT ATTORNEY

Advocating for Your Rights with Compassionate Expertise

Every employee has the right to work in a safe environment. No one should have to tolerate any type of sexual harassment, whether it is done openly or out of the presence of others. 

If you have been subjected to unprofessional actions or attitudes that have caused you embarrassment or uneasiness, your employment rights are being violated.

Turn to a legal team that focuses on holding violators of the law accountable. At Rod Smith Law PLLC, we are committed to helping victims of mistreatment and sexual harassment in the workplace. 

Let our legal team defend your rights.

Contact our Charleston sexual harassment attorneys at Rod Smith Law for a free consultation about your case. Call (304) 406-7076 or contact us online.

Identifying Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

Sexual harassment can take many forms. It can come from co-workers, supervisors, managers, and others in the workplace. Employees may be harassed by members of the opposite sex as well as members of their own sex. These behaviors can interfere with the harassed employee’s work performance and can make the workplace intimidating, offensive, and hostile.

Sexual harassment behaviors can include any unwanted physical or verbal actions such as:

  • Sexual advances
  • Requests for sexual favors
  • Crude sexual remarks
  • Inappropriate texts, emails, or videos
  • Inappropriate touching or brushing up against a person
  • Lewd jokes
  • Sexual innuendos
  • Comments about a person’s body
  • Sexually suggestive photos, language, cartoons, or other material
  • Sexist company policies that discriminate, such as denying promotions or raises due to gender
  • Direct or implied threats or bribes for sexual activity, also known as Quid Pro Quo harassment

Understanding Hostile Work Environment & Quid Pro Quo

There are two common types of sexual harassment that occur in a employee’s workplace:

  • Quid pro quo harassment
  • Hostile work environment

Harassment resulting in a hostile work environment occurs when an employee is facing constant sexual joking, innuendos, or inappropriate behaviors even after it has been asked to stop. This type of behavior has negative effects on job performance.

Our sexual harassment lawyers in Charleston and Morgantown are here to help defend your rights in your workplace. Contact Rod Smith Law PLLC for a free consultation about your case. Be sure to check out our sexual harassment checklist to better prepare you for your case.

Learn more about the types of sexual harassment by reading our blog!

Quid Pro Quo Harassment

Quid pro quo, which is Latin for "something for something," refers to an exchange of goods, services, or favors in which one transfer is contingent upon the other. Quid pro quo sexual harassment occurs when a person in a position of authority, such as a supervisor or manager, seeks sexual favors from an employee in exchange for job benefits, promotions, raises, or other favorable treatment in the workplace. This type of harassment is often linked to employment benefits and can create a hostile work environment for the affected individuals. Quid pro quo harassment is illegal under state and federal law.

Protecting Against Retaliation in Harassment Claims

We understand that you may feel too intimidated to stand up for your rights or that your harasser or employer may retaliate against you if you try to make it stop. However, sexual harassment should not be tolerated in the workplace and you are protected.

Any form of retaliation against you for making a claim of sexual harassment is unlawful. Such adverse actions can include your employer treating you differently, scheduling you to work alongside the harasser, not immediately investigating your complaints, a reduction in your pay, or termination.

If your claim is successful, you may be awarded lost wages, punitive damages, and human loss type damages such as emotional distress, embarrassment, and loss of indignity.

Commonly Asked Questions

What should I do if I experience sexual harassment at work in Charleston?

If you experience sexual harassment in the workplace in Charleston, it’s vital to contact a sexual harassment lawyer as soon as possible. Speaking with a lawyer who specializes in these cases can help you understand your rights, properly document the incidents, and decide on the best course of action. Their expertise ensures your concerns are handled effectively, and your rights are protected throughout the process.

What are the potential outcomes of a sexual harassment claim?

The outcomes of a sexual harassment claim can vary based on the specifics of the case. If successful, you may receive compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages. Additionally, the employer may be required to implement changes to their policies and training to prevent future harassment. In some cases, the harasser may face disciplinary action or termination.

What should I expect during a consultation with a sexual harassment lawyer?

During a consultation with a sexual harassment lawyer, you’ll discuss the details of your situation in a confidential setting. The lawyer will ask about what occurred, including dates, times, locations, and any evidence you may have, such as emails, texts, or witness statements. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions about your rights, legal options, and next steps. It’s helpful to share any related documents, such as workplace policies or prior complaints. At Rod Smith Law, we can come to you or do the initial consultation remotely.  And, there are no costs, ever, to consult with us and learn about your options.

Contact Our Charleston Sexual Harassment Lawyer Today

If you have been subjected to sexual harassment in the workplace, Rod Smith Law PLLC is ready to protect you. We have helped many West Virginia employees hold their employers accountable and recover compensation. Specific time limits apply for sexual harassment claims, so speak with one of our sexual harassment attorneys in Charleston and Morgantown as early as possible.

Contact our Charleston sexual harassment lawyers today at (304) 406-7076 for a free consultation. Don’t let employers keep behaving this way.

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