Sexual Harassment: How We Can Help
You have the right to a work environment that is free of bias, intimidation, or hostility. State and federal law prohibits sexual harassment, as well as other illegal harassment, including race, age, disability, national origin, and sexual orientation. Bertelson Law Office, P.A. is committed to protecting all employees from harassment in the workplace.
“Your calm and even presence; your wisdom and knowledge; your persistence; your kindness and support; your perspective; your belief in me; and your tolerance of my emotions have meant everything to me.”
“It was relatively simple to find attorney’s who would represent employers, but as an employee in a hostile work environment, finding representation was not as easy. After speaking to some attorneys that were referred to me, I went to the internet in search of those honored by their peers as “Super Lawyers” and contacted three who declared themselves to work for employees’ rights. All replied in due time, but it was Beth’s office that, after an explanation of my situation, suggested we meet, if only for an initial consultation. Beth’s schedule was accommodating enough that we could meet within 72 hours. From the initial consultation, she was the perfect balance of pragmatic, professional and supportive. Beth presented me with the strengths and weaknesses of my claim. She made no promises of outcomes, only to do her best, and help me do mine in those trying and stressful circumstances. Through-out the process, her communication was timely and responsive (something not to be taken for granted, based on my few previous experiences with attorneys). My questions were answered, my strategic input was welcome and I never questioned her advocacy for my cause. I’m not wealthy, and I found Beth’s fees to be fair, her billing and explanations clear, and her time usage efficient. Without hesitation, I would recommend Beth and her team.”
What Is Workplace Sexual Harassment?
Any number of actions may constitute sexual harassment, including both verbal and physical advances. Some examples may include:
- Contact of a sexual nature including touching, hugging or brushing against a person’s body.
- Explicit or implicit propositions to engage in sexual activity.
- Comments of a sexual nature, including but not limited to: remarks of a sexual nature regarding a person’s body or clothing, sexually explicit statements or questions, sexually explicit stories or jokes, remarks about sexual activity, and/or whistling, ogling or leering looks.
- Exposure to graffiti, pictures, posters of a sexual nature, or other similar materials.
- Restriction of an individual’s movements through physical interference.
- Comments or actions based on gender.
To determine if your situation constitutes sexual harassment under the law, keep a record of any incidents and use it to provide examples when speaking to an attorney about your potential case.
Steps You Can Take If You Are Experiencing Sexual Harassment At Work
- If possible, directly inform the harasser that his/her conduct is unwelcome and must stop. This response could prevent future harassment from the person, as they may not have realized his/her behavior was offensive.
- File a complaint of sexual harassment, use any employer complaint mechanism or grievance system available.
- Document the circumstances, such as the nature of the sexual advances, and the context in which the incidents occurred. Keep track of dates, places, times, witnesses.
- Contact an employment law attorney to review your situation.
Do Not Tolerate Sexual Harassment At Work. Call Us Today.
If you think you may be facing sexual harassment in the workplace, contact Bertelson Law Office, P.A. at 612-278-9832 to discuss what claims you may have.
*THIS MATERIAL IS EDUCATIONAL ONLY. IT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AND SHOULD NOT SUBSTITUTE FOR LEGAL ADVICE.
