Everyone deserves to have respect and dignity in the workplace. An employee should never feel intimidated, threatened, or objectified while at work. Unfortunately, sexual harassment continues to occur at Alabama workplaces and throughout the United States. Any company should have strict rules that prohibit sexual harassment, and they should enforce these rules. If your employer has failed to enforce their sexual harassment prevention rules, they should be held accountable. You may be wondering whether you have a valid claim and whether you should discuss your situation with an attorney.
Facing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
You were hired for your competence, qualifications, and ability to do your job well. As all of us do, you want to be accepted by your superiors and co-workers in your profession. The last thing any of us wants is to be sexually harassed in the workplace. It is almost impossible to be productive while working with someone who is making sexually-based comments or engaging in unwanted sexual harassment. The vast majority of sexual harassment in the workplace goes unreported because employees are concerned about losing their jobs or experiencing more harassment.
These concerns are entirely understandable and demonstrate the dilemma sexual harassment victims face. On the one hand, they would like to be seen as a professional doing their job. On the other hand, keeping up this appearance while being sexually harassed impacts your job performance and may encourage people to harass others. Thankfully, sexual harassment is illegal in Alabama. You do not have to put up with sexual harassment in the workplace, and your employer does not have the right to retaliate against you for filing a claim against them.
The Best Way to Handle Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Suppose you are concerned about losing your job but would like to stop the sexual harassment. In that case, we recommend discussing your case with one of the experienced employment attorneys at Heninger Garrison Davis. Your consultation will be private, and we will discuss your case and your legal options with you in a confidential setting. Many people who harass their co-workers on the job do it because nobody has ever stood up to them. They may have always gotten away with it and think they can continue doing it without any consequences. You do not have to stand up to the person sexually harassing you alone, however. One of our skilled attorneys will advocate for you throughout the entire process.
The Best Time to Speak to an Attorney
Taking action against sexual harassment can be challenging. Many victims of sexual harassment feel a sense of shame and embarrassment, even though they have done nothing wrong. If you are contemplating filing a sexual harassment charge, but you were not sure whether you should go forward, the best thing you can do is speak to a sexual harassment attorney as soon as possible. One of the skilled employment lawyers at Heninger Garrison Davis will be able to evaluate the incident or incidents you have experienced.
Your attorney will be able to help you understand whether these incidents constitute unlawful sexual harassment. There are time limits or when you can bring sexual harassment lawsuits. If you are wondering when the best time is to discuss your case with a lawyer, it is as soon as you can. You do not want to miss out on your opportunity to bring a claim against your employer. Additionally, an employment attorney can help you begin to keep a record of all of the incidents that continue to happen.
Your attorney can also help you outline all of the ways sexual harassment has affected you. For example, suppose you have anxiety about coming to work. In that case, you are uncomfortable walking alone in your office, or you fear for your safety. These are all signs that unlawful sexual harassment has occurred.
Protect Yourself by Contacting an Attorney
One of the most crucial benefits of hiring an attorney is to protect yourself. One of the skilled employment attorneys at Heninger Garrison Davis can help you protect yourself against further sexual harassment. They will show you how to document the harassment and discuss the incident with your employer. Your attorney can also advise you on the best way to report future harassment with your employer and ensure your complaints are taken seriously. Contact Heninger Garrison Davis today to schedule your initial consultation.
