Austin Sexual Harassment Attorney
All workers have a right to feel comfortable and safe in their work environment. Sadly, many men and women continue to be subjected to sexual harassment, which can quickly make a workplace feel unsafe and continues to be a serious problem in many workplaces. While the boundaries of what may or may not be prohibited can sometimes be difficult to understand, any worker who has been the victim of sexual harassment in the workplace may have recourse to legal action in order to put an end to their mistreatment and get the justice they deserve.
At The Melton Law Firm, we believe that anyone in Austin who has been the victim of sexual harassment deserves to hold those who engage in this type of deplorable behavior accountable. With the help of a skilled and knowledgeable lawyer, many victims are able to get not only the financial recompenses they deserve, but also the justice and closure they need.
Sexual Harassment Claims
Sadly, there are many different forms that sexual harassment can take. At The Melton Law Firm, we are fully prepared to help clients who have been the victims of:
As the victim of any of these or other forms of sexual harassment, you deserve to have someone on your side who is protecting your rights and ensuring that justice is served.
Contact a Sexual Harassment Lawyer in Austin
Our dedicated legal team at The Melton Law Firm works closely with sexual harassment victims to ensure that their rights and interests under the law receive the protection they deserve. Contact us at (512) 330-0017 if you believe you have been sexually harassed at the workplace and want to find out what kind of action you can take. We can help you explore your options and get through this difficult time.
Austin Sexual Harassment FAQs
What federal protections are in place to protect workers from sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination, and as such is prohibited under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Sexual harassment was found to be a violation of Title VII in the landmark supreme court case Meritor Savings Bank v. Vinson in 1986, and is now enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). According to the EEOC, there are two types of sexual harassment per its definition, that of quid pro quo, in which an employee asks another employee for sexual favors in return for something else, and that of a hostile work environment. The EEOC protects against these forms of harassment as well as any retaliation on the part of your employer for denying advances or making a formal complaint.
What are some common forms of sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment is an unfortunately common occurrence and may manifest in many ways. Quid pro quo is one of the most common types, in which an employer or another employee asks a worker to perform sexual favors in return for promotions, advantageous work assignments, and other work benefits. Other forms include unwanted physical touch, lewd or inappropriate jokes and remarks, or being repeatedly asked out. Sexual harassment is a broad term, so if someone is making you uncomfortable and continuing to do so, this is likely harassment, and there are protections against it which can help you.
How to Prove Harassment in the Workplace
Can I be fired for making a sexual harassment claim?
If you have been fired for making a formal sexual harassment claim, either with the EEOC or internally within your company, this is a form of retaliation and is prohibited by the same laws that prohibit sexual harassment. Legally, you cannot be fired for making a sexual harassment claim. If you make a claim and your employer retaliates in any fashion, including demotions, terminations, or unfair work assignments and treatment, you have cause to file a legal suit against them for their crimes and may be eligible to receive additional compensation for the emotional distress that you have suffered as a result.
