How a Lawyer Can Help You Deal With Workplace Harassment

Workplace harassment is a serious issue that affects an individual’s physical and mental health, dignity, work performance, and career prospects. Workplace harassment takes various forms, like

• Bullying
• Sexual harassment
• Retaliation
• Discrimination

Victims of workplace harassment will feel scared, helpless, and angry. Also, you may get confused about what you can do to stop workplace harassment and get justice. 

If you have been in such a situation, you must consider reaching out to law firms like Haeggquist & ECK LLP. They can help you with your legal options. Read on to find out how a lawyer can help victims of workplace harassment.

Advising you on your legal options and rights

Employment laws are complex and differ based on your location. A lawyer can clearly explain the employment laws, which will help you know your rights.

They can advise you on how to proceed legally, whether you need to file a complaint against your organization, report to the police, or file a civil case.

Awareness of their rights enables victims to reach out to sources for help. It gives them courage to know that the law is on their side and allows them to easily address the workplace harassment issue effectively.

Collecting evidence and preparing your case

A lawyer can support you by collecting and securing evidence of workplace harassment, such as messages, emails, witnesses, recordings, or medical reports. You must gather as much evidence as possible.

For instance, when someone sends you an offensive text message, you should take a screenshot and add it to your office cloud account. Even when they delete the message later, you can prove that the incident happened.

Moreover, a lawyer can suggest that you prepare and submit your complaint to the relevant authorities and also represent you in any legal proceedings or hearings that follow.

Negotiating compensation or pursuing litigation

If you want to avoid a stressful and lengthy legal issue, then you need to consult a lawyer who can negotiate a reasonable and fair settlement with the harasser or your employer. Basically, a settlement covers compensation for your suffering, damages, or losses. You can also request an apology, the termination of the harasser, or an alteration in work conditions. When you decide to proceed to court, an attorney can support you in filing a lawsuit and also fight for your legal rights and justice.

Moreover, the lawyer can also handle the litigation in workplace harassment cases easily. Pursuing litigation means that you file a case in court against the employer or harasser. This may help you hold the employer or harasser accountable for their actions, stop future harassment, and also increase awareness about the issue.

Providing guidance and emotional support

The advantage of hiring a lawyer is that they can also offer guidance and emotional assistance throughout the whole process of handling workplace harassment. They will take care of the entire legal analysis. Generally, a lawyer listens to your issues, answers your queries, and reassures you of your legal rights.

Additionally, a lawyer can refer you to other organizations or professionals that may support you in dealing with the stress and emotional trauma of workplace harassment.

Final Thoughts

To sum up, workplace harassment has negative consequences for your career and well-being. If you are experiencing workplace harassment, you shouldn’t tolerate or remain silent about the abuse. Speak up and publicly shame the harasser. This process might seem difficult, especially if the abuser happens to be a superior or someone close to the boss. Regardless of their status, it is essential to let your voice be heard.

Also, don’t forget to seek assistance from a lawyer who can help you bring the responsible parties to justice and prevent them from harming others.