Sexual Harassment Attorney Columbus Ohio
Protecting Your Rights in the Workplace
What is workplace sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination involving unwelcome and inappropriate sexual advances in the workplace. This conduct often interferes with an employee’s ability to complete their work and creates an unsafe work environment. Under both federal and Ohio law, sexual harassment may involve verbal comments, physical actions, written communication, visual materials, and even jokes or gestures. Additionally, the person responsible does not have to be your supervisor, but may be a manager, subordinate, coworker, or even a third party, such as a client or customer.
Both men and women can be victims of sexual harassment or discrimination, and it can also occur between individuals of the same or different genders. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, emotional distress, and even work demotions or loss of opportunities.
If you believe you are experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace, contact Willis Spangler Associates in Columbus, Ohio, today. Our team of experienced attorneys understands the emotional toll discrimination can take and will provide both the support and legal advice you need during this difficult time.
Types of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
There are two main categories of sexual harassment in the workplace. The first is quid pro quo harassment, which is when employment benefits, such as promotions or raises, are based on submitting to unwelcome sexual advances. This form of sexual harassment often involves someone in a position of authority who is abusing their power.
The second category of sexual harassment is hostile work environment harassment. This happens when sexual misconduct or discrimination is so common or offensive that it creates an abusive or hostile environment. While this often involves repetitive behavior, it can also be a singular instance if severe enough.
Specific examples of sexual harassment in the workplace include inappropriate touching, sexually explicit messages, comments about appearance, or offensive jokes. Even conduct not directed at a specific individual can contribute to a hostile environment if it still affects an individual at work.
How to Report Harassment
Many companies have internal policies outlining exactly how to report sexual harassment or discrimination. They may involve notifying a supervisor, the human resources department, or another specific employee. If the perpetrator of this sexual harassment is your supervisor, there may be alternative reporting options.
If you feel fearful, unsafe, or even just uncomfortable reporting sexual harassment or discrimination internally, contact an experienced employment attorney. Likewise, if you have faced retaliation for reporting sexual harassment, reach out to Willis Spangler Associates today. Our lawyers will guide you through every step of the legal process, starting with filing a report with your employer and investigating any possible retaliation, such as a demotion, termination, or form of discrimination.
Employment Law Protections in Ohio
Both federal and Ohio law prohibit sexual harassment in the workplace. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and Ohio employment law provide protections for any employee subject to unlawful behavior. These sexual harassment laws apply throughout Columbus and across Ohio.
These protections also apply to hiring, firing, promotions, pay, and other terms of employment. In Columbus, Ohio, an employee may pursue claims through administrative agencies and/or the court systems, depending on the specifics of the sexual harassment or discrimination case.
Knowing which legal avenues to take for your sexual harassment claim, as well as keeping track of deadlines, procedural requirements, and other legal matters, can be exhausting and overwhelming. That is why our trusted team of local Ohio attorneys is here to help you throughout the entire process, ensuring every employee obtains the outcome they deserve following sexual harassment at work.
How Sexual Harassment Lawyers Can Help
Sexual harassment lawyers play a critical role in helping victims understand their rights as employees and seek accountability. Our experienced Columbus law office can evaluate whether your situation meets the legal definition of sexual harassment or discrimination and advise you on the best next steps.
Additionally, at Willis Spangler Associates, our attorneys will gather evidence, communicate with your employers, and pursue your case through negotiation or litigation. We have decades of combined experience in sexual harassment, discrimination, and employment law and are dedicated to protecting workers in Columbus and across Ohio.
What to Expect During the Legal Process
Every employment law and sexual harassment case in Ohio is different but follows a similar process. After a first complimentary consultation, one of our Columbus attorneys will help you file a complaint with the appropriate agency or court. This may involve submitting documentation and participating in an investigation.
Some sexual harassment and discrimination cases may be resolved through settlements, while others go on to litigation. Regardless, our law office will explain your options as an Ohio employee, manage deadlines, and advocate on your behalf. Having a clear understanding of the process at all times can dramatically reduce stress and empower you to move on with confidence and optimism.
When to Consult an Attorney
If you are experiencing sexual harassment, discrimination, or retaliation at work, you should contact an Ohio attorney as soon as possible. Even if you are unsure how the law applies to your specific situation or have already filed an internal sexual harassment report, our team can help obtain and preserve evidence, ensure compliance with filing deadlines, and provide peace of mind.
While seeking legal counsel early on is highly recommended in a sexual harassment or discrimination claim, our team at Willis Spangler Associates is here to help workers in Columbus and across Ohio with any step of the legal process.
Call the Wrongful Death Attorneys at Willis Spangler Associates Today
If you have suffered sexual harassment or discrimination in the workplace, contact our attorneys at Willis Spangler Associates today. Our law firm proudly serves employees in Columbus and throughout Ohio, providing trusted representation when it matters most.
Call our law office at 614-586-7900 or fill out the form below to schedule a complimentary consultation. We will review your sexual harassment or discrimination case, explain your options, and help you take the next step forward.
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