Sexual Harassment Attorneys in Mullica Hill
New Jersey and federal employment laws function to protect people from discrimination and harassment in many different circumstances. Unfortunately, people continue to face offensive behavior at the hands of employers, supervisors, and colleagues. When these behaviors are sexual in nature, one could reasonably feel as though their work environment is hostile, intimidating, or abusive. If you have been the victim of sexual harassment, there are actions you may take in order to protect your rights and hold those offenders accountable. If you are an employer and you allow this behavior to continue, you could be held liable for the consequences. It is important to stop sexual harassment in its tracks. Speaking with an attorney that can investigate the matter is a good first step. Contact The Vigilante Law Firm, P.C. for a consultation.
What is sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment comes in many forms. Some are overt, while others are less direct. Generally speaking, there are two types of sexual harassment claims we handle: quid pro quo and hostile environment sexual harassment.
- Quid pro quo sexual harassment: Requests or the insinuation of a request for sexual favors in exchange for better employment conditions or to avoid adverse employment actions such as demotion or dismissal is one type of sexual harassment. This is called quid pro quo from the Latin for “something for something”.
- Hostile environment sexual harassment: Hostile environment sexual harassment can take many forms. It can take the form of verbal harassment—sexual jokes, sexual or gender-based humor, sexual propositioning, suggestive talk, sexual insinuations, or compliments. Hostile environment sexual harassment can be non-verbal as well, including undesired staring, obscene materials, insulting noises, obscene motions or actions.
Sexual harassment and New Jersey’s Law Against Discrimination
New Jersey has implemented laws in order to protect residents against harassment and discrimination based on a variety of reasons. New Jersey’s Law Against Discrimination (LAD) details what is considered sexual harassment and what can be done when someone faces this offensive and intrusive behavior in the workplace. New Jersey does not have a threshold of age when covering the rights of workers. Businesses of all sizes are held equally accountable for their actions, including state and local municipalities. According to LAD, sexual harassment includes:
- Unwanted sexual advances
- Asking for sexual favors in exchange for a job, promotion, job benefit
- Attempting to make sexual demands a condition of employment
- Other verbal and physical behavior of a sexual or sexist nature
Action in the face of sexual harassment
The LAD details what can be done when facing sexual harassment. In New Jersey, the LAD allows for a victim of sexual harassment to file a complaint with the Division of Civil Rights (DCR) in order to hold someone accountable in state court. There are many steps in the process and having representation is highly recommended.
Contact a Gloucester County attorney who works for your interests
The Vigilante Law Firm, P.C. has served the people of New Jersey with quality legal services for over 25 years. Our firm has experience representing employees who face sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace and employers who need to stop sexual harassment from continuing. We are ready to assess your case and guide you through your options. If your case goes to court, we will passionately advocate on your behalf and seek justice for your legal matter. Contact The Vigilante Law Firm, P.C. for a consultation.