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Sexual Harassment Cases in New Jersey
At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we are highly skilled in representing individuals who have experienced workplace harassment throughout New Jersey. While every employee has the fundamental right to work in an environment free from harassment, sexual harassment—such as unwanted sexual comments, advances, or behavior—remains an unfortunate reality in many workplaces.
Our firm is unwavering in its commitment to fighting workplace harassment in all forms, ensuring that employees are fully informed of their rights and legal options. Known for providing reliable legal guidance and strong advocacy, we are dedicated to protecting the interests of our clients.
If you believe you’ve encountered sexual harassment at work, our experienced legal team is here to help. Contact us at either our Roseland or Manhattan offices to schedule a consultation with an attorney who specializes in New Jersey sexual harassment law.
Sexual Harassment Definition in New Jersey
Sexual harassment remains a serious issue in workplaces, despite growing awareness and efforts to address it. Under both state and federal laws, it is considered illegal sex discrimination. There are two main types of sexual harassment recognized under New Jersey law:
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Quid Pro Quo Harassment: This type often involves a supervisor or someone in a position of power, where sexual favors are demanded in exchange for employment-related benefits, such as raises, promotions, or job security.
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Hostile Work Environment: This occurs when an individual is subjected to continuous unwelcome sexual behavior, comments, or displays. This can come from anyone in the workplace, including supervisors, coworkers, clients, vendors, or customers, and can significantly impact an employee’s ability to perform their job.
Sexual harassment encompasses any unwanted sexual behavior or conduct, whether visual, verbal, or physical. Some common examples include:
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Visual: Staring, leering, displaying sexual objects, pictures, or cartoons.
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Verbal: Making derogatory comments, telling sexual jokes, using slurs, or making inappropriate remarks.
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Physical: Engaging in unwanted touching or even sexual assault.
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Other: Offering job benefits in exchange for sexual favors or retaliating against an employee for rejecting sexual advances (e.g., firing, demotion, or other adverse actions).
Sexual harassment can affect anyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, identity, or job position. If you are facing harassment in your workplace, our legal team at NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC is ready to protect your rights and provide the support you need.
Fear of Moving Forward with Your Sexual Harassment Lawsuit in NJ
Taking legal action in a sexual harassment case can feel overwhelming, and it’s normal to have concerns about the process. Here are some common fears people face when considering a sexual harassment lawsuit:
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Retaliation Fear: Concerns about facing negative consequences from the harasser or employer, such as job loss, demotion, or further harassment.
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Privacy Worries: Anxiety about personal details of the case becoming public or being shared with colleagues, friends, or family.
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Emotional Impact: The stress and emotional toll of the legal process can exacerbate existing psychological issues like anxiety, depression, or trauma caused by the harassment.
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Career Concerns: Apprehension about how pursuing a lawsuit might affect your professional reputation, job prospects, or future career opportunities.
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Financial Burden: Worries about the cost of legal fees, the financial strain of a prolonged legal battle, and the uncertainty of the lawsuit’s outcome.
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Legal Complexity: The complexity of understanding the legal process, the intricacies of harassment law, and the various steps involved in pursuing a case.
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Credibility Issues: Fears about not being believed, facing victim-blaming, or the challenge of proving harassment if there is limited or conflicting evidence.
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Personal Life Disruption: Legal proceedings can be emotionally and time-consuming, causing stress and strain on your personal relationships and everyday life.
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Cultural Stigma: In some communities, there may be a stigma associated with being a victim of sexual harassment, adding additional pressure.
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Settlement vs. Trial: Deciding whether to pursue a quicker, less stressful settlement or to go through the longer, more public process of a trial.
These fears and concerns are valid, and they highlight the need for legal professionals who not only possess the expertise to navigate complex harassment laws but who also understand and are sensitive to the emotional and psychological challenges that clients face. At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we are here to guide you through every step of the process with care and professionalism, ensuring your rights are protected while addressing your concerns.
Choose NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC for Your Sexual Harassment Case
At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we understand the hesitation that many victims of sexual harassment feel, particularly due to concerns about retaliation or damage to their reputation. Our experienced attorneys are here to protect your rights, your professional reputation, and your career every step of the way.
When you choose us as your legal team, we take the time to fully understand your unique situation and walk you through all available legal options. We recognize that navigating a sexual harassment lawsuit can be challenging, but our unwavering support ensures you don’t face it alone.
To strengthen your case, here are several important steps you can take:
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Documenting Incidents: Keep a detailed record of any inappropriate comments, behaviors, or actions that constitute harassment. This will provide essential evidence for your case.
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Direct Confrontation: If you feel safe doing so, directly inform the harasser that their behavior or comments are unwelcome. This can be done verbally or in writing, serving as a clear indication of the issue.
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Record of Resolution Attempts: Keep a log of any actions you take to address the harassment, such as reporting it to supervisors or HR, or communicating with the harasser through company emails or written correspondence. These efforts can serve as tangible evidence of your attempts to resolve the situation.
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Adhering to Company Protocols: Follow your employer’s official procedures for reporting harassment. Ensuring your complaint is formally acknowledged within the organization is an important step in creating a documented trail of your concerns.
At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we are committed to providing you with the compassionate and skilled legal representation you need to move forward with confidence. Let us help you protect your rights and pursue justice.
