Sexual Harassment Attorneys Columbus Ohio

What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is any unwelcome verbal or physical conduct directed at someone on the basis of gender or sex.  Sexual harassment can take many forms including unwanted touching, sexual comments, groping, sexual assault, derogatory jokes, demanding sexual favors in exchange for keeping a job, a promotion or any other term or condition of employment and many others.  The Columbus Ohio sexual harassment lawyers at our firm can answer any questions you have about what constitutes sexual harassment.

What if I am being harassed by someone of the same sex?

This is still sexual harassment, as long as it is based on gender or sex.

What types of sexual harassment exist in the workplace?

Sexual harassment can take many forms, as described above, so always speak with an employment attorney but some examples include: co-worker sexual harassment, harassment by a manager or supervisor, harassment by a manager or supervisor that is considered “quid pro quo,” often manifesting as requesting that you perform sexual favors or sexual acts to keep a job, be promoted, etc.  Other examples include jokes referring to sexual acts or sexual orientation, showing someone pornography or naked photos at work and discussing sex generally, including sexual fantasies or sexual partners.  If the conduct or comments are sexual in nature and it makes you uncomfortable, it could be sexual harassment.

Sexual Harassment & Sexual Assault 

Sexual assault can be a form of sexual harassment.  Sexual assault is any form of physical touching against one’s will.  Sexual assault refers to physical sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the victim’s consent. Some examples are: groping or fondling, forcing someone to perform a sexual act or performing a sexual act on that person against their will, attempted rape, etc.

Sexual assault is often a violation of criminal statutes.  Sexual assault can happen at work and it is important to seek counsel if you are the victim of sexual assault in your workplace.

What should I do if I am being sexually harassed?

• Document what is happening however you can.  You can take notes in a notebook, tell a friend or coworker and keep any proof of the sexual harassment or sexual assault that you may have.  Do NOT delete any proof of the sexual harassment or sexual assault, like text messages, photos, any evidence on social media or any recordings you may have.
• Notify your employer immediately, both orally and in writing.  You can also review the sexual harassment policy to understand how your employer wants you to report concerns related to sexual harassment.
• Keep a record of when you told your employer about the harassment and document what was reported.  It is vital that you be able to prove you told your employer.
• Contact an attorney.

If you experience sexual harassment or sexual assault in the workplace, having an attorney on your side can be of the utmost importance.

Should I quit my job if I am being sexually harassed?

Consult with a Columbus sexual harassment lawyer before you resign.  An attorney that is well versed in sexual harassment law can advise you as to how to handle the situation.  If you quit your job without informing your employer that you have been a victim of sexual harassment, this can sometimes prevent you from collecting damages if you file a lawsuit. Speak with an sexual harassment attorney to determine the best course of action.

What if my employer retaliates against me and terminates me for reporting sexual harassment?

Retaliating against someone for reporting sexual harassment is unlawful. Reporting sexual harassment is considered a “protected activity” and once you engage in it, you are protected by law from retaliation. If your employer has a sexual harassment policy, it should state that retaliation is prohibited.

Contact our Top Rated Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Columbus, Ohio

Based in Columbus, Ohio, our sexual harassment lawyers never back down and will fight for you. Call us at 614.610.9755 today for a free consultation.  We have handled the most egregious situations involving sexual harassment and our goal is to shield you from the stress and anxiety that comes with being sexually harassed or assaulted, while working to obtain the most favorable outcome.