New Jersey sexual harassment lawyer
New Jersey sexual harassment lawyer
Blog Article
Navigating Sexual Harassment Claims in New Jersey: How Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Can Help
NJ sexual harassment lawyer is a significant issue in many workplaces across the country, including New Jersey. Despite growing awareness and media attention, many individuals continue to face this troubling behavior in their professional environments. If you're grappling with a sexual harassment issue, understanding your rights and seeking proper legal support is crucial. Castronovo & McKinney, LLC stands ready to offer expert legal guidance and representation for those affected by sexual harassment.
Defining Sexual Harassment in New Jersey
Sexual harassment is classified as a form of unlawful sex discrimination under both federal and New Jersey state laws. Understanding the nuances of sexual harassment can help victims recognize it and take appropriate action. In general, sexual harassment falls into two main categories:
Quid Pro Quo Harassment
Definition: This form of harassment occurs when a person in a position of authority, such as a supervisor, demands sexual favors in exchange for employment benefits or to avoid negative consequences.
Examples: Asking for sexual favors in return for promotions, raises, or even continued employment.
Hostile Work Environment
Definition: This type involves a pattern of unwelcome and offensive behavior that creates a work environment that is intimidating, hostile, or abusive. This can be carried out by anyone in the workplace—supervisors, coworkers, vendors, or even clients.
Examples: Persistent unwanted comments, sexual gestures, inappropriate touching, or displaying sexually explicit material.
Sexual harassment encompasses various forms of unwanted sexual behavior, including:
Visual Conduct: Staring, leering, or displaying sexually suggestive objects or images.
Verbal Conduct: Making offensive remarks, jokes, or comments of a sexual nature.
Physical Conduct: Unwanted touching, sexual advances, or sexual assault.
Other actions that might qualify as sexual harassment include:
Offering Employment Benefits: Providing or threatening to withhold employment benefits in exchange for sexual favors.
Retaliation: Taking adverse actions against employees who refuse sexual
advances, such as demotion or termination.
It is essential to recognize that sexual harassment can affect anyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or position within the company. If you have experienced harassment at work, the legal team at Castronovo & McKinney, LLC is here to protect your rights and advocate on your behalf.
How Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Can Assist You
At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we understand the complexities and emotional toll of dealing with sexual harassment. Victims often fear retaliation and damage to their reputation, which can make coming forward seem daunting. Our attorneys are dedicated to providing a compassionate yet robust defense of your rights.
Here’s how we can help:
Understanding Your Situation
Personalized Approach: We take the time to listen to your story, understand your specific circumstances, and provide tailored legal advice.
Exploring Options: We will help you evaluate all possible legal actions, ensuring you make informed decisions about how to proceed.
Strengthening Your Case
To build a strong sexual harassment claim, consider taking the following steps:
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of offensive comments, actions, or any form of harassment.
Address the Offender: If safe to do so, communicate directly with the harasser to make it clear that their behavior is unwelcome.
Create a Record: Use official channels like company email to document your complaints and any attempts to address the issue.
Report According to Policy: Follow your company’s procedures for reporting harassment.
Our team will use this evidence to support your case and seek out additional witnesses who can corroborate your claims. We are committed to protecting your rights and reputation throughout the legal process.
Protecting Against Retaliation
Employers are legally prohibited from retaliating against employees who report harassment. If your employer takes adverse actions against you—such as firing, demotion, or reassignment—due to your complaint, they can be held accountable. Our firm will ensure that any retaliation is addressed and that you are protected from further harm.
Supporting a Respectful Workplace
In addition to representing employees, Castronovo & McKinney, LLC also assists businesses in handling sexual harassment claims and developing effective policies. We provide guidance on:
Defending Against Claims: Helping businesses navigate and respond to allegations appropriately.
Policy Development: Assisting companies in creating comprehensive sexual harassment policies and reporting procedures to foster a positive work environment.
Our goal is to help both employees and employers contribute to a respectful and productive workplace.
Contact Castronovo & McKinney, LLC
If you are facing sexual harassment in New Jersey, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Castronovo & McKinney, LLC is dedicated to standing by your side and ensuring that your rights are upheld. For a consultation, call us at 973.920.7888.
Your workplace should be a place of respect and safety. Let us help you achieve that goal and address any issues of sexual harassment with the seriousness they deserve.