Sexual Harassment Laws

Sexual Harassment Laws

Federal and state laws protect workers from the demeaning and harmful work environment created by sexual harassment. Whether your situation involves a hostile environment or demands for sexual favors in exchange for job benefits or promotions, a knowledgeable and experienced sexual harassment attorney in Cincinnati can help guide you toward a resolution. Workplace sexual harassment rarely ends without direct action. Connect with attorneys who handle sexual harassment cases if you have faced mistreatment at work.

We handle sexual harassment inquiries from across different industries and workplace settings. Many of our clients are professional employees and executives who work as teachers, doctors, nurses, attorneys, stockbrokers, flight attendants, and managers at businesses of all sizes. These workers have trusted us with sensitive matters involving workplace harassment.

Some people mistakenly believe that any “harassment” at work is automatically illegal. The law only prohibits harassment based on sex, race, disability, age, or another protected status. Not all unpleasant or challenging situations meet the legal definition. Sexual harassment, as the most common form of workplace discriminatory harassment, must relate to your sex, gender, or gender stereotypes to qualify under the law. If you feel harassed, consult a sexual harassment attorney in Cincinnati before reacting or resigning, so you do not compromise your position or legal options.

Sexual harassment usually falls into two main categories: quid pro quo and hostile work environment. Quid pro quo happens when a person in a position of authority requests sexual favors in exchange for employment benefits. Hostile work environment claims involve unwelcome sexual conduct that interferes with job performance or creates an intimidating, offensive, or abusive atmosphere. Both can form the basis for legal claims when the conduct meets the standards in state or federal law.

Most employers have policies to help prevent and respond to workplace sexual harassment. When reporting harassment, follow your workplace’s procedures. Our firm regularly receives calls from employees who have not reported the situation to HR or company leadership. We generally advise employees to use the reporting channels laid out in the employee handbook, posted policies, or company websites. If your company has no written policy, report your concerns to a supervisor you trust.

What Should I Do If I Believe I'm Being Sexually Harassed at Work? Read Our Infographic

What to Expect During the Legal Process

Navigating a sexual harassment claim can feel complex and stressful, but our step-by-step guidance makes the process more manageable. After you contact our team, we review your circumstances and explain your options in plain language. You will receive honest advice about possible outcomes, the types of evidence that can support your claim, and the steps that may follow. Each phase, from the first consultation through to resolution, brings its own considerations and decisions. We work with you to gather important documents, keep track of timelines, and prepare for communications with others involved in your case.

Legal claims often require patience. Timelines may change depending on whether your claim proceeds under federal or state law. We clarify those deadlines early, so you can make informed choices and avoid missteps that could affect your claim. Our approach lays out each step as you move forward, helping you prepare for submitting complaints, responding to your employer, or considering a settlement. By outlining the path ahead and the issues that can affect outcomes, we help you move forward with confidence.

If you face workplace sexual harassment, get guidance from a Cincinnati sexual harassment attorney. Contact us online or call (513) 650-6270 today.

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    Sexual Harassment Laws

    The law requires employees to give their employer a chance to address harassment by following the company's reporting procedures. The employer then must investigate and work to stop the harassment. If the employer does not respond or resolve the problem, the law may hold the employer accountable. If you have reported sexual harassment and the situation continues, contacting an experienced Cincinnati sexual harassment lawyer can help you decide your next steps.

    Federal and state law both protect employees from retaliation after reporting sexual harassment. Retaliation includes termination, demotion, pay reduction, negative reviews, or actions that discourage someone from filing a complaint. Knowing your rights helps you take appropriate action if your employer retaliates because you reported harassment. Creating a clear record and documenting your communications helps you if you choose to pursue a claim.

    Each situation is unique. Sometimes, litigation brings closure, but there are alternative ways to resolve workplace sexual harassment. Employees may negotiate the transfer or removal of the person causing the harassment or evaluate exit options like a fair severance agreement. The Cincinnati sexual harassment lawyers at Robert A. Klingler Co., LPA, draw on years of experience representing clients through these choices, offering strategic advice that fits your goals and concerns.

    Statutes of limitation set strict timeframes for taking action after harassment occurs. If you miss these deadlines, you may lose the right to seek a remedy. The filing window changes based on whether you file under state or federal law. Acting quickly gives you a better chance to preserve your interests and collect the documentation needed to support your claim.

    For more information about sexual harassment, please go to our employee rights and information center.

    Understanding Your Rights Under State & Federal Law

    Federal and state laws grant employees strong protection against sexual harassment at work. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes it unlawful for most employers to allow harassment based on sex or gender. State laws, including those in Ohio, provide similar and sometimes broader protection. In Ohio, laws also empower state agencies to investigate workplace harassment. Employees can choose to bring claims under state or federal law, depending on their circumstances. Working with legal counsel helps determine which avenue suits your needs best. With guidance, you can review your case in light of the particular laws, rules, and procedures that may apply.

    Choosing the right legal strategy involves reviewing your employer’s size, when you reported the harassment, and what evidence you preserved. Most individuals do not need to face these challenges alone. When you have someone in your corner, you take every available step to protect your rights, reduce stress, and navigate the process with confidence.

    Workplace sexual harassment is unacceptable. Speak with a Cincinnati sexual harassment lawyer today. Contact us online or call (513) 650-6270 for guidance.

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