Workplace discrimination is not something that you should endure. It is important to take action, no matter who is on the other side. Sexual harassment cases, unfortunately, are reported frequently in Virginia, and probably more incidents are never reported because employees are worried about the consequences. Understanding what constitutes sexual harassment and taking action in time are key steps, and for that, you could benefit from hiring a Virginia employment attorney. Below are some key aspects worth knowing.
Understanding sexual harassment
In simple terms, sexual harassment can be classified into two categories – quid pro quo & a hostile work environment. For the initiated, “quid pro quo” means asking for favors in return for something. For instance, if your supervisor has promised a promotion or better pay if you go out on a date, it is a case of quid pro quo sexual harassment. On the contrary, when someone is subjected to lewd comments or is made to feel vulnerable at work, it could be a case of creating a hostile work environment.
Deadline for filing sexual harassment claims
If you want to file a complaint against your employer or supervisor, you must initially follow the company protocols. You must file a written complaint and wait for your employer to act on that. If your employer retaliates against you or doesn’t take action, you have 180 days to file a discrimination charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). If you want to file a charge with the state agency of Virginia, you have 300 days to do so.
What remedies can you expect?
There are several remedies that one can expect from the case, including back pay, compensatory damages, punitive damages, and lost future earnings. If you were wrongfully fired from the job, you could expect to get reinstated.
Get an employment attorney
Just because someone passed a comment about your shape or asked you out on a date, it doesn’t always mean you have a valid sexual harassment case. You must consider hiring an employment attorney who will explain the legal ambit of your claim and the options you can consider. Your lawyer is also in charge of investigating your claim, helping with evidence and paperwork, and taking care of other key aspects like representing you before the commission.
Call an employment attorney today to know more, and don’t ignore any form of sexual harassment at work. You deserve to be treated with respect at work!
