Protecting Your Rights: How a Sexual Harassment Lawyer in New Jersey Can Help You
NJ sexual harassment lawyer in the workplace remains a serious and pervasive issue despite growing awareness and media coverage. Both state and federal laws recognize sexual harassment as a form of unlawful sex discrimination, manifesting primarily through quid pro quo harassment and hostile work environments. If you are facing such challenges in New Jersey, the experienced team at Castronovo & McKinney, LLC is here to provide the support and legal guidance you need.
Understanding Sexual Harassment in New Jersey
Sexual harassment can take various forms, each with its own legal implications and nuances. In New Jersey, sexual harassment is categorized mainly into two types:
Quid Pro Quo Harassment
This form of harassment, also known as supervisor harassment, involves a person in a position of authority demanding sexual favors as a condition of employment or in exchange for employment benefits such as raises, bonuses, or promotions. Essentially, it’s a situation where employment decisions are linked directly to an employee’s response to sexual advances.
Hostile Work Environment
In contrast, hostile work environment harassment involves a pattern of unwelcome behavior that creates a work environment that is intimidating, hostile, or offensive. This type of harassment can be perpetrated by anyone in the workplace—supervisors, coworkers, vendors, clients, or customers. For it to qualify as harassment, the behavior must be severe or pervasive enough to interfere with an employee’s ability to perform their job.
Forms of Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment encompasses a range of behaviors that fall under unwanted sexual advances. Specific conduct that may be considered harassment includes:
Visual Conduct: This includes staring, leering, or displaying sexually charged objects, pictures, posters, or cartoons.
Verbal Conduct: Making derogatory comments, sexual gestures, slurs, jokes, or commentaries of a sexual nature.
Physical Conduct: Unwanted touching, groping, or sexual assault.
In addition to these, actions such as offering employment benefits in exchange for sexual favors or retaliating against employees who refuse sexual advances also constitute harassment.
How Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Can Support You
At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we understand that coming forward about sexual harassment can be daunting. Victims often fear retaliation or damage to their professional reputation. Our experienced attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and your reputation while guiding you through the legal process.
Here’s how our legal team can assist you:
Personalized Attention: We take the time to understand the specifics of your situation. Every case is unique, and we’ll help you explore all your options to find the best course of action.
Evidence Collection: We’ll guide you on documenting offensive comments and conduct. Creating a detailed record is crucial for building a strong case.
Addressing the Offender: We may recommend addressing the harassment directly with the offender, making it clear that their behavior is unwelcome.
Official Complaints: Establishing a record of your attempts to resolve the issue through company channels is vital. This can include using company email to document your complaint officially.
Reporting Procedures: We’ll assist you in reporting the harassment according to your company’s policy, ensuring that the complaint is handled appropriately.
Legal Protections Against Retaliation
It’s important to know that your employer cannot legally retaliate against you for complaining about sexual harassment. Any adverse employment action, such as firing, demotion, or reassignment, in response to your complaint can be challenged legally. We’ll work to ensure that your rights are upheld and that you are not subjected to retaliation.
Supporting Businesses with Sexual Harassment Policies
Beyond representing employees, Castronovo & McKinney, LLC also provides valuable services to businesses. We offer guidance on:
Defending Against Claims: If your business faces sexual harassment claims, our attorneys can help you mount a robust defense.
Policy Development: We assist businesses in establishing effective sexual harassment policies and reporting procedures to foster a respectful work environment.
Why Choose Us?
Choosing the right legal representation is crucial when dealing with sexual harassment claims. At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we bring a wealth of experience in employment law and a strong commitment to advocating for your rights. Our goal is to create positive and respectful workplaces for both employees and employers.
If you are facing sexual harassment or need assistance with establishing workplace policies, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us today at 973.920.7888 for a confidential consultation. Let us help you navigate this challenging situation and work towards a resolution that protects your rights and your future.