Sexual harassment attorneys specialize in handling sexual harassment cases. Federal laws prohibit sexual harassment in the workplace, and often, there are state laws that offer additional protections. An attorney helps the victim and protects their rights while working to put an end to the sexual harassment. While some attorneys practice employment law and handle various work-related issues, there are some attorneys who focus on handling sexual harassment issues.
How Can A Sexual Harassment Attorney Help?
There are many ways in which a sexual harassment attorney can help you with your sexual harassment claim. Here are some ways in which you can be offered help by a lawyer, and some things that you need to go over with your employment law attorney who handles sexual harassment claims.
- Explanation - A sexual harassment attorney is familiar with the applicable laws. Your lawyer will be able to go over the laws that were violated through Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, so you will understand your rights and know what is considered sexual harassment in the workplace. Your attorney will also know if there are applicable state laws for your specific situation and how you can best get a claim underway.
- Options – During your consultation, a sexual harassment lawyer will be able to go over your options. Should you file a private lawsuit against your employer, should you file a complaint with a state agency, or should you file your complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the US Department of Labor. Your lawyer may be able to speak directly with your employer to resolve the issues without filing a claim or advancing the matter to court. Your attorney will make recommendations to you, so you can make an informed decision about pursuing your sexual harassment claim.
- Cost – Benefit Analysis – A sexual harassment attorney will be able to outline the possible compensation you could be entitled to if you were to win your claim. Also, your lawyer will break down the legal fees and any other costs associated with your claim. There are some situations in which filing a claim is a better choice than filing a claim with the EEOC or Department of Labor. Your lawyer will know which option is best in your situation, so you can get a resolution to the workplace sexual harassment matter you have faced.
Finding A Sexual Harassment Attorney
Do not just hire the first sexual harassment attorney you find. Instead, do your research and make sure you hire the right one for your specific job. You want to get a perfect match for your situation, and you want to feel comfortable working with this attorney and telling them about your experience and the harassment you endured. Here are some ideas for finding a sexual harassment attorney for your claim, so you can ensure you are treated fairly, and your rights are protected.
- If you decide to consult with a sexual harassment lawyer, you will want to make sure you find the right one for your situation. You will most likely get your search underway online by looking for employment law attorneys in your area. A quick internet search of workplace sexual harassment attorneys in your city should also provide results.
- You should meet with the prospective sexual harassment attorney before you hire one. You need a face-to-face meeting before you decide whether to hire this lawyer. You want to make sure you feel completely comfortable with the employment law attorney before you hire them. Remember, you will be working together to get a favorable decision and to win your claim.
If you have been the victim of workplace sexual harassment, you should complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to share the details with an attorney in your area. Be sure to provide the required information, so you can get a response from the practice. You want to talk with the attorney and ask some questions, so you can make sure you are getting the right solution for your workplace sexual harassment claim. Also, discuss payment options because some workplace sexual harassment attorneys require a retainer to be paid and then charge an hourly rate while others will take the case on a contingency basis and not be paid until you win your claim. You do have a limited time – 180 days from the incident – to pursue a claim, so do not delay getting the help that you need if you are a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace.