Sexual harassment in the workplace is all too common. Victims are afraid to speak up for fear of angering their bosses or losing their job. However, it is unlawful, and victims need to be represented. A sexual harassment lawyer in New Jersey can help you build your case. Sexual harassment can come in many forms, and victims are sometimes unaware it is happening to them. With more people coming out about their sexual orientation and gender preference, harassment cases are increasing. When a company fires someone, refuses to hire, reduces pay, or otherwise discriminates based on gender stereotypes, this is a form of sexual harassment.
How Can a Sexual Harassment Lawyer in New Jersey Help Me?
A sexual harassment lawyer in New Jersey will help you understand your rights. Sexual harassment isn’t always obvious. It can come in many forms, and we may think the person is just being playful. However, derogatory statements, inappropriate jokes, and even hugs fall under the umbrella of sexual harassment. This behavior creates a hostile work environment and should not be tolerated. Read on to review the most common forms of sexual harassment.
Ridicule.
Ridicule involves mocking, teasing, and bullying a person with inappropriate behavior and statements. Rumors fall into this category too.
Offensive Jokes.
Joking is common and a lot of people have an inappropriate sense of humor. However, directing these jokes at someone because of their gender, sexual orientation, or appearance is considered a form of sexual harassment.
Inappropriate touching.
It should go without saying that touching someone for any reason without their consent is sexual harassment. Someone might think it is a harmless hug, but it can be misconstrued as inappropriate.
Rude Comments.
Making rude or inappropriate comments about an employee or co-worker is a form of sexual harassment. Commenting on everything from their clothes to sexual preferences is unlawful.
Sexual Favors.
Using sexual favors in exchange for a promotion or pay raise is sexual harassment. This can also include asking for favors to prevent termination.
Each of these forms of harassment will fall into one of two categories: hostile or quid pro quo. Hostile includes verbal and physical harassment that makes an employee uncomfortable at work. Quid pro quo means “if you do this… I will do this…”, including sexual favors. Both are unlawful and should be reported.
Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity
As well as the above mentioned, many people experience discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. This includes rude comments and gestures about their lifestyle, and it creates a hostile work environment. This is a form of unlawful sexual harassment. How a person identifies should not affect employability. Refusing to hire someone or terminating them because of sexual preference or gender identity is illegal. There are laws in New Jersey to protect individuals from this form of discrimination.
Understanding various forms of sexual harassment can help you protect yourself from it. If you find yourself a victim based on sexual orientation, gender, or gender identity, call Zat Law. At Zat Law, we have the best sexual harassment lawyer in New Jersey.
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