Making Sure the Law Is On Your Side

If you were ever sexually harassed at your workplace, you know how frustrating, distressing, and embarrassing the situation can be. Nevertheless, the most important thing is knowing what you should do when it happens. It's also good to know what the workplace sexual harassment law says about sexual assaults so you can take the right steps against the harasser. Unfortunately, most people do nothing about their workplace sexual harassment claims because they don't know their rights or what this form of harassment entails. Some of the things that constitute workplace sexual harassment include unwanted touching, conversations about sex, following someone around, sending someone sexually explicit materials, rape, or even threatening someone when they reject sexual advances. If someone has sexually assaulted you, here's what you should do.

Determine Whether the Action Qualifies as a Sexual Assault

Usually, what the workplace sexual harassment law says about sexual assaults may vary from one state or country to another. If you indeed feel you were sexually harassed, you should assess the situation to determine if it's worth filing a claim. This is important because although you may feel offended, the claim might not meet the legal threshold required. For instance, if someone says you look beautiful in that dress, it may not qualify as sexual assault because it could be interpreted as a compliment. But if someone says they will punish you if you don't accept their sexual advances, then you can sue them in court. You could also sue someone if their action or comments are incredibly pervasive.

Take Notes of Everything That Happened

Verbal complaints will not help you a lot, even if someone really attempted to harass you sexually. You need to document anything you think was a sexual assault. Ensure you note the day, date, and time that incident happened. Write the name of the harasser and describe their actions on paper, or even take a video if you can. If some people witnessed the incident, get some statements from them and record what they said about it. It's also good to note whether it's the first workplace sexual harassment you are experiencing or if you have experienced it before.

Contact a Workplace Sexual Harassment Law Professional

If a fellow employee or staff member harasses you, you should report the matter to the employer. And although the employer should take such allegations seriously and investigate the issue promptly, this doesn't always happen. The employer may deliberately not take any step against the harasser, especially if they are related or just for other personal reasons. In this case, you should hire a professional in workplace sexual harassment law to help you. The lawyer will investigate the matter and help you seek legal justice. They will guide you on what you should do or avoid to maintain the validity of your claim and get the justice you deserve. 

Contact a local workplace sexual harassment lawyer for more information.