Everyone deserves to work in a safe and respectful environment, but unfortunately, workplace harassment is still a widespread issue. Around 21% of individuals globally report being affected by harassment or violence at work. Despite laws and policies aimed at preventing such behavior, such cases continue to rise, often due to employers' inconsistent enforcement of anti-harassment measures.

It's essential to understand that harassment can happen to anyone, regardless of their background. However, individuals in protected classes (such as those based on race, sex, religion, age, or disability) are often the targets of such behavior. Harassment can lead to emotional and psychological stress, impacting your ability to perform at work.

If you're experiencing workplace harassment based on a protected class, you have a right to action and file a complaint. If you’re unsure how to begin, a qualified workplace harassment lawyer can provide guidance and support.

What Is Workplace Harassment?

Workplace harassment encompasses unwelcome behavior—whether verbal, physical, or visual—that targets employees based on their characteristics like gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, national origin, disability, and more. Harassment can take many forms, including offensive jokes, derogatory comments, slurs, insults, physical assaults, threats, intimidation, retaliation, and displaying offensive materials.

One of the most common forms of harassment is sexual harassment, which involves unwanted sexual advances or requests for sexual favors. If you are experiencing any type of harassment, it’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable harassment lawyer to understand your legal options and take the appropriate steps.

Key Workplace Harassment Laws

Fortunately, various federal laws are in place to protect employees from workplace harassment, including:

• The Civil Rights Act
• The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)
• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

These laws protect workers from discrimination and harassment based on specific characteristics. However, the applicability of these laws depends on the size of the employer. For example, the Civil Rights Act and ADA apply to employers with at least 15 employees, while the ADEA applies to employers with 20 or more employees.

In addition, for employees in Connecticut, the Connecticut Fair Employment Practices Act also prohibits harassment and discrimination based on various protected classes, and it applies to employers with at least 1 employee.

A legal professional skilled in employment law can help determine what options are available based on your specific circumstances.

Steps to Take if You Are a Victim of Harassment

If you find yourself facing workplace harassment, there are important steps to follow to protect your rights and strengthen your case. Although the appropriate steps may vary depending on the circumstances of your particular situation, and it is important to consult with an employment lawyer to obtain advice that is specific to your situation, the following steps are examples of actions that may be important for individuals experiencing harassment at work:

Step 1: Document the Harassment

A critical step in filing a harassment complaint is to document incidents of harassment. Record the date, time, location, and specific details of each harassment episode, including what was said or done. Collect any physical evidence, such as emails, texts, or photos, and identify potential witnesses who observed the behavior. This documentation will serve as a crucial part of your case if you decide to take legal action.

Step 2: Review Company Policies and Reporting Procedures

Every employer should have a clear anti-harassment policy in place. Take the time to review your company’s procedures for reporting harassment, including whom to contact and how to file a formal complaint. If the policy is unclear or you’re unsure how to proceed, a workplace harassment attorney can assist you in understanding the next steps.

Step 3: Report the Harassment Internally

Employees experiencing harassment at work can report the harassment internally through the company’s internal process for reporting harassment. This typically involves meeting with the appropriate person or department, such as HR. Providing a detailed account of the harassment, including dates and descriptions. Submitting any supporting evidence, such as documentation or witness statements.

By following the internal reporting process, you establish a record that you attempted to resolve the issue with your employer.

Step 4: File an External Complaint

In addition to filing a complaint internally with your employer, employees experiencing workplace discrimination and harassment based on protected characteristics have a right to file a complaint with an external agency. Federal agencies like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) handle workplace harassment cases, and many states also have local agencies that address these issues. In Connecticut, employees claiming violations of the Connecticut Fair Employment Practices Act can file complaints with the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities.

Different laws have different deadlines for filing complaints with governmental agencies, and in court. It is important to consult with an employment lawyer to ensure that you protect your rights and file complaints within the required timeframes.

Step 5: Take Further Legal Action if Necessary

Absent a resolution with your employer or through a governmental agency, many of the statutes prohibiting workplace harassment and discrimination based on protected characteristics allow individuals to file lawsuits in court. However, since there are rules and deadlines associated with these processes, it is important to consult with an employment attorney to provide you with advice about your particular situation, and to help you navigate the legal system and ensure that your case is handled properly.

Why You Need a Workplace Harassment Lawyer

Workplace harassment cases can be complex and emotionally challenging, leaving you feeling alone and vulnerable. However, you do not need to face this alone. Having legal advocacy throughout the process ensures that your rights are protected. Our skilled employment and workplace discrimination attorneys at Madsen, Prestley & Parenteau, LLC will assist you through every step, from documenting incidents to filing complaints and taking legal action.

Contact Madsen, Prestley & Parenteau, LLC; Dedicated Connecticut Workplace Harassment Attorneys

If you believe your rights have been violated or you’re facing retaliation for speaking out about workplace harassment, Madsen, Prestley & Parenteau, LLC is here to guide you through the process.

With a strong track record of advocating for employee rights for over two decades, our firm is committed to ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are upheld. Our compassionate attorneys understand the complexities of workplace harassment cases and will help you pursue your legal rights in pursuit of a remedy for the violation of your rights. Don’t wait to take action to safeguard your future and preserve your rights; call 860-246-2466 or schedule your consultation online today.