Regardless of your profile and the other aspects, you deserve to have a workplace that’s free of emotional harm and any form of harassment. Of course, this is not an ideal world, and things can go wrong. There are state and federal laws that prohibit sexual harassment at work, but more often than not, victims fear retaliation and consequences when reporting such matters. It is pertinent that you talk to a sexual harassment lawyer in Austin, TX, at the earliest if you have experienced a hostile work environment. There is a standard procedure that you must follow, and you would expect the company to take action against the perpetrator, but if that didn’t happen, you may have to consider other ways. Here is what you must know about sexual harassment in Texas.
Types of sexual harassment
There are two categories of sexual harassment –
- Hostile work environment: If you have been subjected to comments, jokes, or remarks about your shape, gender, or body, it is probably a case of a hostile work environment. Because such action can impact your work and hamper the environment that you operate in, you have reasons to feel anxious. Remember that such cases are often hard to prove, especially when you don’t have solid evidence, which is why it is essential to meet an attorney.
- Quid pro quo sexual harassment: Besides direct harassment such as sexual assault, an employee may have endured other kinds of behavior. When someone demands a sexual favor in return for another promise, this is a classic example of quid pro quo sexual harassment. For instance, if your supervisor demands that you go out with them to avoid a demotion, you have reasons to take action.
Should you hire an attorney for sexual harassment?
The short answer is yes. In many cases, HR teams take the required action and prevent such action by stopping such behavior, but if that didn’t happen with you, it is best to meet a local lawyer in Austin who specializes in sexual harassment cases. Your lawyer will help with the legal options and guide you in gathering evidence and details that are relevant to justice. If you were fired from the job because you filed a sexual harassment case against someone at work, it is a case of retaliation, and your employer could be held liable for the situation. Lawyers are well aware of the various situations and can ensure you have help.
Get a sexual harassment lawyer now!