Harassment Lawyer in Brooklyn

Holding Wrongful Parties Accountable for Improper Workplace Actions

We’ve all had difficult and stressful jobs in our careers. This is really just par for the course. However, there are times when workplace difficulties go beyond typical stressors. If you’re facing offensive, intimidating, abusive, or otherwise inappropriate actions at your job, there’s a chance that your employer may be in violation of state and federal law. Speaking with a harassment lawyer in Brooklyn is a good place to start for understanding your rights and options.

At The Law Office of Vincent Miletti, Esq., we understand the serious consequences that can come from unchecked harassment in the workplace. No one should have to go through this. You deserve a workplace where you can do your job, earn a living, and do so without feeling uncomfortable in any way. If you feel like you’re being harassed in the workplace, don’t hesitate to contact our law firm to schedule a free initial strategy session.

What Constitutes Harassment in the Workplace?

Many people immediately think of sexual harassment when they hear the term “harassment in the workplace.” While inappropriate sexual behavior certainly qualifies, the definition of harassment is actually much broader. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) states that harassment is any type of unwelcome conduct based on the following:

• Race
• Color
• Sex (e.g., pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity)
• Religion
• Older age
• Genetic information
• Disability
• National origin

These are all protected statuses under federal law. This type of harassment violates federal statutes when either (1) enduring the harassment becomes a condition of employment or (2) a hostile work environment is created. Unfortunately, these cases are not always as clear-cut as they may seem. This is why it never hurts to speak with a harassment lawyer in Brooklyn.

What Should You Do if You’re Facing Workplace Harassment?

If you are being treated inappropriately in the workplace, your first inclination may be to contact an attorney. This isn’t a bad idea since they can provide guidance, but you typically can’t jump right into a lawsuit. You’ll want to start by reporting the harassment. If a coworker is engaged in inappropriate behavior, you can speak with your supervisor. If it’s a higher-ranking employee harassing you, you can reach out to their superior or human resources.

This is an important step because it makes the company aware of what’s going on. This provides them an opportunity to correct what’s happening and avoid liability. However, the company may already hold some liability if it’s a manager that’s harassing an employee. Similarly, liability could be established if the company does nothing to rectify the issue. No matter what, you should start documenting everything from this point on.

What Damages Are Available in Workplace Harassment Cases?

Speaking with a harassment lawyer in Brooklyn is the best way to determine if you’re entitled to compensation. This can vary based on the circumstances of your situation, but your geographic location can also play a role. For instance, New York state law does not allow for punitive damages in a hostile work environment case — even though New York City law does have such provisions.

Regardless of your situation, you may be entitled to the following:

• Lost income
• Lost future income or reinstatement
• Emotional harm
• Attorney fees
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Punitive damages

These damages and potentially others may be available in cases where an employer is found liable for workplace harassment. However, it’s important to remember that there are legitimate defenses for such accusations. For instance, the employer may not be liable if they prove the employee did not take advantage of preventative or corrective opportunities.

There are other defenses to such accusations as well, so it’s important to speak with a Brooklyn harassment attorney before making any major decisions.

Contact a Harassment Lawyer in Brooklyn Today

The workplace should be a safe environment for everyone to perform their jobs. It’s not right for anyone to feel unwelcome, targeted, or embarrassed so that they can earn a living. If you’ve found yourself in such a situation, you may have legal remedies available to you. While speaking to a supervisor is typically the right place to start, doing so may not be possible or productive. This is when you should seek out legal assistance.

At The Law Office of Vincent Miletti, Esq., our legal team has spent well over a decade handling employment law issues. We’ve seen what workplace harassment can do to good people, and we’ve seen successful brands irreparably damaged by not taking such claims seriously. If you’re dealing with such a legal issue, speaking with a harassment lawyer in Brooklyn may be in your best interest. Call us today at 314-648-2586 to book a free consultation with our team.