What Should You Do If You’re a Victim of Sexual Harassment at Work?
Jan. 21, 2025
Sexual harassment at work is a serious issue that many employees face. Employment law provides protection for workers who are subjected to such behavior. If you're a victim of sexual harassment, it's important to know what steps you can take to address the situation and protect your rights.
As a law firm with years of experience, here at Duwel Law, we represent clients throughout Dayton, Ohio. Discover the key actions you should take if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, offering guidance on how to handle the matter with the full support of employment law.
Know What Constitutes Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is defined under both state and federal law as unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature that creates a hostile or intimidating work environment. This behavior can take many forms, from inappropriate comments and jokes to physical actions or requests for sexual favors.
Ohio law aligns with federal employment law on this matter, protecting employees from any form of harassment in the workplace.
It’s important to recognize that sexual harassment doesn't always involve physical contact. Verbal harassment, including offensive jokes or repeated unwelcome advances, can also create a hostile work environment. Any behavior that makes you feel uncomfortable, threatened, or humiliated based on sex, gender, or sexuality could be considered harassment.
Document the Harassment
Once you recognize that you're experiencing sexual harassment, the next step is to document everything. Here are some types of documentation that could prove helpful:
Detailed Records of Each Incident: Record the date, time, location, and description of any incident of sexual harassment you experience.
Communication Between You and the Harasser: Write down any conversations, emails, or text messages that contain inappropriate comments or actions.
Support From Witnesses: If there were any witnesses, take note of their names and contact information.
Documenting the harassment will help you present a clear case if you decide to take further action. Ohio law and employment law in general give weight to these records when investigating claims. In addition, it can provide evidence to support your claims should you need to report the issue to your employer or pursue legal action.
Report the Harassment to Your Employer
Once you’ve documented the harassment, your next step should be to report the incident to your employer.
Ohio law requires that employers take appropriate action when they become aware of harassment in the workplace. Many employers have a policy in place for handling complaints about harassment. This may involve reporting the issue to a designated HR representative or manager.
If you're unsure how to proceed, start by reviewing your company’s employee handbook, which should outline the process for reporting harassment. If no formal policy exists, you should still report the harassment in writing to someone with authority at your company. It’s important to make sure that your complaint is documented so that your employer is aware of the situation.
By reporting the harassment, you're providing your employer an opportunity to address the issue. Ohio employment law requires that employers take prompt action to investigate complaints and resolve them in a manner that prevents further harassment.
Know Your Rights Under Employment Law
In Ohio, sexual harassment is prohibited under both federal and state employment laws:
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): The EEOC enforces federal laws prohibiting workplace harassment, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This law protects employees from sexual harassment based on sex, and it applies to all employers with 15 or more employees.
Ohio Civil Rights Act (OCRA): OCRA also prohibits discrimination and harassment in the workplace. It covers a broad range of conduct, protecting employees from harassment based on their sex, gender, or other protected characteristics.
Both Ohio law and federal employment law provide avenues for victims of sexual harassment to seek justice. If an employer fails to address the harassment, you have the right to file a claim with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission or the EEOC. These agencies will investigate your complaint and, if necessary, take legal action against your employer.
Additionally, both Ohio law and federal employment law protect you from retaliation. This means your employer can’t punish you or discriminate against you for reporting sexual harassment or participating in an investigation related to the claim.
Consider Filing a Legal Claim
If your employer doesn’t take appropriate action or if the harassment continues despite your report, you may decide to pursue a legal claim.
In Ohio, victims of sexual harassment can file complaints with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) or the EEOC. These agencies investigate claims of discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment in the workplace.
It’s important to file your claim within the time limits set by law. According to eeoc.gov, under federal law, you must file a complaint with the EEOC within 180 days of the harassment. According to civ.ohio.gov, you have up to two years to file a complaint with the OCRC, which may give you additional time to pursue your case.
Keep in mind that seeking legal action is a critical decision, and consulting with an attorney who understands Ohio employment law is highly recommended.
An attorney can help guide you through the process of filing a claim, gathering evidence, and advocating for your rights. In many cases, it may be possible to resolve the issue through negotiation or mediation, but your lawyer will help you understand whether litigation is necessary.
Seek Support from a Qualified Employment Law Firm
Handling sexual harassment in the workplace can be emotionally and mentally taxing. Having the right support can make a significant difference in how you approach the situation. That’s where experienced employment law professionals come in.
If you’re considering taking legal action or simply need guidance on your options, contacting a law firm that understands Ohio employment law is an important step. An attorney experienced in employment law can provide advice tailored to your situation, explaining your rights and helping you make informed decisions.
At this point, you may be wondering how Duwel Law can help. Our firm is equipped to assist clients who have been victims of workplace harassment, offering personalized legal support from start to finish.
Whether you're dealing with sexual harassment or other types of discrimination, we provide compassionate and knowledgeable guidance that prioritizes your well-being and legal rights. We take the time to review your case thoroughly and advocate for your best interests, all while making the process as smooth as possible.
Taking Action and Moving Forward
Sexual harassment is a serious matter that no one should have to endure, especially in the workplace. If you're a victim, it's important to take action and exercise your rights under Ohio employment law. Document the harassment, report it to your employer, and seek support if necessary. In some cases, pursuing legal action may be required to pursue justice.
No one should have to endure harassment in their place of employment. You have the right to work in an environment that respects your dignity and safety. If your employer fails to take the necessary steps to stop harassment or retaliates against you for coming forward, it’s crucial to seek the guidance of an experienced law firm.
Our firm is here to help you through the process, providing legal advice and helping protect your rights every step of the way.
Contact Us to Get Started
Here at Duwel Law, our attorneys understand how difficult and upsetting it can be to confront sexual harassment. With the right legal support, you can take the necessary steps to hold those responsible accountable and reclaim your peace of mind.
We serve clients throughout Dayton, Ohio, as well as Montgomery County, Miami County, Greene County, Darke County, and Warren County. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.