Minneapolis Sexual Harassment Attorneys
Sexual Harassment
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII) and the Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA) prohibit sexual harassment in the workplace. Sexual Harassment is a form of gender/sex discrimination, and can include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or verbal or physical harassment that is sexual in nature or because of a person’s gender. Under Title VII and the MHRA, sexual harassment can also be the basis of a hostile work environment claim.
To speak to our Minneapolis lawyers about a sexual harassment case, please call (877) 344-4628 for a free consultation.
Examples of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Sexual harassment is illegal if satisfaction of a sexual demand is used as the basis for an employment decision. For example, an employee may have a claim if he or she refuses a supervisor’s sexual demands and is terminated. Even in a situation where the employee does not suffer an adverse employment action, such as discipline or termination, the employee may still have a hostile work environment claim if the conduct is unwelcome and either severe or pervasive.
Conduct that is either severe, such as physical touching, or pervasive, such as persistent sexual comments, may give rise to a hostile work environment claim even if the employee has not suffered actual discipline or termination.
It is important to note that both men and women are protected from sexual harassment, and the conduct does not have to be motivated by sexual desires to qualify. Employees may even suffer sexual harassment from members of their own sex.
Examples of actions that can be considered sexual harassment in the workplace include:
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A supervisor makes sexual demands and threatens to fire or demote an employee if they do not submit to the sexual demand.
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A boss continues to ask an employee out on a date and declares romantic intentions despite the employee’s rejection.
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A boss or co-worker makes negative or threatening comments or other sexually suggestive remarks about an employee’s gender.
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A boss or co-worker makes comments, jokes, or other sexually suggestive remarks about an employee’s clothing, body, or sex life.
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A boss or co-worker touches an employee in inappropriate ways, including hugging, kissing, patting, or deliberately brushing up against them.
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Posters, magazines, pictures, or screensavers that are sexual in nature, derogatory, or hostile toward a particular gender are displayed or circulated around the workplace.
What Should I Do If I’ve Been Sexually Harassed?
Employees who believe they are suffering from sexual harassment should first tell the harasser to stop and report the harassment to their employer. Employment manuals or handbooks typically provide employees with company policies and procedures for addressing sexual harassment.
Employees who tolerate offensive acts in the workplace without reporting the incidents could find themselves in a position where they do not have an actionable sexual harassment claim.
If you have reported sexual harassment to your employer and your employer has not taken steps to investigate and prevent further sexual harassment from occurring, speak with our lawyers so we can help you take action to protect your rights.
Legal Remedies for Sexual Harassment
If you have been a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, it is important to understand that you have legal rights and options to seek justice. At Nichols Kaster, PLLP, our Minneapolis sexual harassment lawyers are dedicated to fighting for the rights of employees who have been subjected to harassment.
When it comes to addressing sexual harassment, there are several legal remedies available:
- Filing a Complaint with the EEOC: The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is a federal agency that investigates claims of workplace discrimination, including sexual harassment. Our attorneys can guide you through the process of filing a complaint and ensure that your rights are protected.
- Pursuing a Lawsuit: If your employer fails to take appropriate action to address the harassment or if the EEOC investigation does not result in a satisfactory outcome, you may have the option to file a lawsuit. Our skilled attorneys will work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf and seek the compensation you deserve.
- Negotiating a Settlement: In some cases, it may be possible to reach a settlement with the employer outside of court. Our attorneys have extensive experience in negotiating fair and favorable settlements that address the harm you have suffered.
It is important to consult with an experienced sexual harassment attorney to understand your rights and determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
How Nichols Kaster Can Help
If you have been a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, it is important to know that you have legal rights and options available to you. Taking legal action against the harasser and your employer can help you seek justice, hold the responsible parties accountable, and potentially obtain compensation for the harm you have suffered.
At Nichols Kaster, PLLP, our team of Minneapolis sexual harassment attorneys is dedicated to fighting for the rights of victims. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and provide compassionate and personalized legal representation to help you navigate the legal process.
When you choose us to handle your sexual harassment case, you can expect:
- Thorough investigation: Our attorneys will conduct a detailed investigation to gather evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.
- Expert legal advice: We will provide you with expert legal advice and guidance throughout the entire process, ensuring that you understand your rights and options.
- Aggressive representation: We will aggressively advocate for you in negotiations, settlement discussions, and, if necessary, in court to achieve the best possible outcome.
- Comprehensive support: Our team will provide you with the support and resources you need to navigate the emotional and legal challenges of your case.
If you have been sexually harassed in the workplace, don't suffer in silence. Contact our Minneapolis sexual harassment attorneys today to schedule a confidential consultation. We are here to help you fight for justice and protect your rights.
To set up your free case consultation with our legal team, please give us a call at (877) 344-4628 or contact us online.
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Our team of passionate, talented professionals work every day on advancing and protecting people's rights. No entity is too big to play fair, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to our firm to discuss the details of your situation.