Why Work With Mesidor PLLC?
At Mesidor PLLC, we provide support for employees who are pursuing justice in the workplace. Led by the example of Marjorie Mesidor, our emotionally intelligent lawyers provide personal attention to each aspect of your case. We are passionate about bringing victims of harassment fair compensation and have secured over $87 million for our clients.
We seek to make ourselves obsolete by providing legal resources and promoting fair employment practices. Beyond representing employees in claims, we support this mission by using social media for employee rights education and operating a non-profit fellowship program for future employment attorneys.
An Overview of Workplace Harassment
Harassment is a type of employment discrimination involving unwelcome conduct from others at work. Harassment must be based on a protected characteristic, such as sex, race, gender, or disability. In the United States, 41% of black workers report experiencing discrimination or unfair treatment by an employer, while 31% of federal harassment claims are based on sex.
Whether a supervisor is requesting sexual favors, you are consistently receiving offensive remarks about your use of disability accommodations, or co-workers continue to touch your hair after being asked to stop, there are many ways in which harassment can occur. Common examples of workplace harassment include:
- Offensive comments, jokes, or slurs
- Emails or other digital messages are used to humiliate or intimidate
- Unwanted physical contact
- Spreading malicious rumors
- Retaliation against an employee for reporting harassment
Understanding the Two Types of Harassment
The two types of workplace harassment cases are “hostile work environment” cases and “quid pro quo” cases. A Hamptons workplace harassment attorney can explain which type of harassment you have experienced and can tailor your claim to reflect your personal experience.
“Hostile work environment” claims can be filed when harassment interferes with your ability to comfortably complete your work. While 15% of workers consider their work environment toxic, this does not constitute workplace discrimination unless the reason for the negative work environment was based on a protected characteristic.
“Quid pro quo” harassment is a common type of sexual harassment that many workers experience. A quid pro quo case involves an employee with more authority, such as a supervisor, who demands sexual favors in exchange for benefits such as a raise or promotion. Sexual favors may also be demanded to avoid negative actions, such as firing, demotion, or poor scheduling.
If you have suffered from sexual harassment at work, there is support from the community in the Hamptons. Organizations such as The Retreat and ECLI-VIBES offer 24/7 hotlines, counseling, and forensic exams for victims of sexual harassment and assault.
Damages in a Workplace Harassment Case
Workplace harassment laws protect your ability to receive compensation after experiencing harassment. A claim can bring remedies for your damages, such as lost wages and benefits, reinstatement, and emotional pain. A lawyer can evaluate your case to make sure your claim pursues a full recovery for all your damages.
Hire a Workplace Harassment Lawyer
A Hamptons workplace harassment lawyer can help you navigate the workplace harassment laws to file a strong claim. To do this, a lawyer can determine who is at fault for the harassment. Claims can be filed directly against the harasser or against your employer for failing to address the issue. A lawyer can explain what your options are, helping you feel empowered throughout the claims process.
When addressing harassment, it is important to work with an empathetic, trauma-informed lawyer. A lawyer can work to understand your personal experience, advocate on your behalf, and gather evidence that supports your story. Without a lawyer you can trust, the claims process can become stressful and make it difficult to get the justice you deserve.
FAQs
How Much Is a Workplace Harassment Claim Worth?
How much a workplace harassment claim is worth depends on the specific damages you have suffered, the employer’s actions, and the employer’s size. Compensation should cover the damages you have faced, such as lost wages and benefits or emotional suffering. If the employer was purposefully harassing you or demonstrated extreme negligence, they may have to pay punitive damages, which vary depending on the severity of the case and the company’s size.
Can You File a Claim for Workplace Discrimination in New York?
Yes, you can file a claim for workplace discrimination if the harassment is based on a protected characteristic, such as race, sex, religion, age, or disability. If you hire a workplace harassment lawyer, they can explain whether your work environment meets the requirements to file a claim. A workplace discrimination claim can help you pursue remedies for your damages while also holding your employer accountable for failing to address harassment.
Is it Worth Filing a Claim for Harassment?
Yes, filing a harassment claim is generally worth it as it can lead to compensation for your damages. Compensation can cover your lost wages, lost benefits, and medical expenses for mental health treatment. Beyond making up for your damages, filing a claim can lead to punitive damages to punish an employer for their misconduct, and remedies such as reinstatement or changes in company policies.
Can You File a Claim if Your Harasser Is a Coworker?
Yes, you can file a claim if your harasser is a coworker, not just a supervisor or manager. If another coworker is harassing you, report the event to HR or a supervisor. If an internal report fails to resolve the issue, you should speak with a lawyer about filing a claim against your coworker. You may also be able to file a claim against your employer if they failed to address the harassment you experienced from a coworker.
Speak With a Skilled Hamptons Workplace Harassment Attorney Today
Workplace harassment deserves to be taken seriously, yet many employers fail to properly address misconduct or are involved in the harassment. Contact Mesidor PLLC to learn how we can help you uphold a safe and dignified work environment.