So you have recognized that you are a victim of sexual harassment, but you may be asking yourself what you should do now. Reporting sexual harassment at work can be scary, especially when you are worried that you could be a victim of retaliation. In fact, many people fail to report sexual harassment because they are afraid to be seen as a liar and looked at differently.
However, no matter the consequences you may be afraid to face, it is imperative that you report your sexual harassment claim, in a timely manner.
Here is what to do if you are being sexually harassed at work:
1. Contact an Employment Attorney
While dealing with sexual harassment can be overwhelming, and can leave the victims feeling alone, it is important that they do not wait or do anything rash. There will be all kinds of concerns about what will happen if actions are taken. Since every situation is different, it is critical that an employment attorney is consulted, so they can explore the issues related to each particular situation, and determine the best course of action. Always consider consulting with an attorney before making a report of harassment.
2. Document the Evidence
Carefully documenting the sexual harassment itself is critical. From specific dates and times, to the actions, by documenting and keeping these records, one can better be prepared for potential litigation, giving an employment attorney the opportunity to keep these notes confidential when the time comes. Writing on each sheet, “Privileged & Confidential, Prepared for Legal Counsel” can be helpful in maintaining privilege so others can’t see them. Later, if your lawyer wants to use your notes as evidence, you can waive the privilege.
3. Report the Sexual Harassment
It is critical that the sexual harassment be reported to the proper authorities at the employer, which gives the employer a chance to fix the problem. The employee handbook is a good place to look in order to determine who to report harassment and discrimination concerns to. If whom to report sexual harassment to is not covered in the hand book, report it to the H.R. department or someone in senior management. Of course, if your boss, or even the president of the company is the harasser you can’t report him to himself. Report to someone else in senior management. If the harasser is the president of the company report it to a senior vice president. When deciding when and how to report sexual harassment in the work place, an employment attorney can often give you guidance to avoid the pitfalls.
Specializing in harassment, discrimination, wage and overtime theft, and civil rights litigation for more than 20 years, the employment attorneys at Maduff & Maduff are here to help. Contact us for more information today.