Brooklyn Sexual Harassment Attorney

Fighting For Those Who Have Experienced Sexual Harassment in the Workplace in the Bronx, New York City, and Tri-State Region

Phillips & Associates, PLLC, is a well-respected Brooklyn sexual harassment law firm committed to defending victims of sexual harassment in the Bronx, New York City, and Tri-State region. We fight to restore our clients with the dignity and compensation they lost as a result of workplace discrimination. At Phillips & Associates, we handle cases on a contingent fee basis, which means that we charge absolutely no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you. 

Contact our sexual harassment lawyer in Brooklyn for a free initial consultation today at (866) 229-9441.

What Is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment includes conduct such as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and sexual comments or unwanted touching of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment is a form of gender discrimination. Even non-sexual conduct, like offensive remarks about a person’s sex, may constitute sexual harassment. Victims and perpetrators can be of any gender, and harassment may occur between members of the same sex.

We handle sexual harassment cases in Brooklyn and the New York City area. Don’t be a victim of sexual harassment. Call Phillips & Associates for a free consultation at (866) 229-9441.

Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

The majority of our sexual harassment cases involve allegations against a supervisor or boss. Despite valiant strides to eliminate gender bias, sexual harassment still pervades the workplace. The EEOC tracks sexual harassment statistics based on the number of complaints it receives each year. In 2010, the EEOC received 32,053 workplace harassment claims, 30,989 of which it resolved. The EEOC recovered over $48.4 million in damages for sexual harassment claims alone.

Although the EEOC reported a “drop” in sexual harassment charges since 2001, studies have shown that over 65 percent of people harassed never report it. The attorneys at Phillips & Associates specialize in sexual harassment in Brooklyn and New York City. Whether its sexual harassment by a co-worker or sexual harassment by a supervisor call us today for a free consultation (866) 530-4330.

Sexual Harassment & the Hostile Work Environment

The most common form of sexual harassment is that which leads to a “hostile work environment.” While minor, isolated incidents of joking or teasing do not rise to the level of sexual harassment, other patterns of gender-based discrimination do. Seemingly innocuous comments about a person’s sex can constitute harassment if they occur with such frequency or severity as to unreasonably interfere with the victim’s work. Whether the workplace habitually tolerates unwelcome comments is a question for the jury. Many employers fail to realize what isolated incidents of inappropriate conduct sound like in court. The same teasing that seemed harmless and lighthearted at work may not be as amusing to a judge or jury. It is thus important to document all incidents of what you perceived to be harassing conduct and ask an attorney whether such conduct contributes to an actionable offense. Phillips & Associates represents victims of sexual harassment in Brooklyn and New York City.

Is Sexual Harassment Illegal in the Workplace? 

According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), sexual harassment is illegal when “it is so frequent or severe that it creates a hostile or offensive work environment” or when it results in “adverse employment decisions” such as firing or demoting the employee based on the acceptance or rejection of sexual favors.

In the city of Brooklyn, state and federal laws protect victims of sexual harassment. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act explicitly prohibits employment discrimination or harassment based on sex. The Equal Pay Act of 1963 prohibits “sex-based discrimination between men and women…who perform jobs that require substantially equal skill, effort, and responsibility under similar working conditions.” State antidiscrimination statutes make it unlawful “to discriminate against an individual in compensation, terms of conditions, or privileges of employment” because of the person’s sex. Even at the city level, New York City’s Human Rights Law strictly prohibits sexual harassment, reaching smaller employers than the Civil Rights Act. The Equal Employment Practices Commission likewise monitors the city’s compliance with equal employment regulations. Our attorneys handle sexual harassment in Brooklyn and the New York City area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do if I Experience Sexual Harassment at Work?

If you experience sexual harassment at work, it's crucial to take immediate steps to protect yourself and your rights. Firstly, document every incident in detail, including dates, times, and witnesses if possible. This documentation will be essential if you choose to take legal action. Report the harassment to your supervisor or human resources department per your company’s policies. If your complaint is not addressed adequately or you face retaliation, contact an attorney familiar with New York and Brooklyn employment laws for guidance.

Seek support from trusted colleagues or professional counseling to help manage the stress and emotional impact of your experience. Remember that the law is on your side, and numerous resources are available to help victims of workplace harassment, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the New York City Commission on Human Rights. Taking action helps address your situation and contributes to a safer workplace for others.

How Can I Prove Sexual Harassment in My Workplace?

Proving sexual harassment can often hinge on thorough documentation and credible evidence. Maintain a detailed record of each incident, including what was said or done, by whom, and any witnesses present. Emails, text messages, and voicemails can serve as substantial proof. Witness testimonies from colleagues who observed the harassment can also strengthen your claim.

Most importantly, report the incidents to your employer following your organization’s formal process. A documented report adds legitimacy to your claim and sets the stage for any legal action. If the harassment persists despite these efforts, pursuing legal action with the assistance of skilled sexual harassment attorneys can help hold the harassers accountable. In Brooklyn, the EEOC and the New York State Division of Human Rights assist claimants with investigations and potential legal proceedings.

Is My Employer Liable for Sexual Harassment Conducted by an Employee?

Yes, an employer can be held liable for sexual harassment conducted by an employee, especially if they failed to take reasonable steps to prevent or address it. Under federal and New York law, including in Brooklyn, employers are responsible for maintaining a work environment free from harassment. If an employer ignores complaints or neglects to enforce policies against harassment, liability can be established.

Additionally, if someone in a supervisory role conducts harassment, employers are more likely to be held directly responsible, as they are expected to supervise and control employee conduct effectively. Documented proof of the employer's prior knowledge and inaction significantly reinforces claims against them. Victims must report harassment promptly and follow up with management if appropriate action is not taken, as this builds a stronger case for holding the employer accountable in legal or administrative proceedings.

What Are My Legal Rights If I Report Sexual Harassment?

If you report sexual harassment, you are protected by law against retaliation from your employer. The law prohibits employers from taking adverse actions such as demotion, termination, or discrimination against employees who report harassment in good faith. Both federal and New York laws uphold these protections, ensuring employees can voice concerns without fear of repercussion.

After a complaint is filed, it is essential to monitor any changes in workplace treatment that could signify retaliatory conduct. Keep records of any such incidents and report them promptly. Should retaliation occur, legal avenues are available to address these actions. Phillips & Associates is committed to defending the rights of individuals facing retaliation and can provide detailed guidance to safeguard your rights and seek appropriate remedies.

Contact Our Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Brooklyn Today

At Phillips & Associates, we understand that sexual harassment cases are difficult. But we also believe that no one should have to tolerate unwelcome sexual advances or other offensive behavior at work. Our team of dedicated Brooklyn sexual harassment attorneys has years of experience defending employees in claims of sexual harassment, sexual discrimination, and gender discrimination. You can trust Phillips & Associates, PLLC, to provide you with the highest quality legal representation and aggressively advocate on your behalf.

Located Next to the New York Stock Exchange

We are conveniently located in the Financial District in downtown Manhattan. We are one block from the New York Stock Exchange on Wall Street. Take the 2 or the 3 or the 4 or the 5 subway train to Wall Street. Walk one block to 45 Broadway. Our address is below.

Contact Phillips & Associates, PLLC today to get started with our Brooklyn sexual harassment attorneys.: