New Jersey sexual harassment lawyer remains a significant issue in many workplaces, despite increased awareness and media attention. If you’re dealing with sexual harassment in New Jersey, understanding your rights and legal options is crucial. Castronovo & McKinney, LLC is here to guide you through this challenging process and ensure that your rights are protected.

Understanding Sexual Harassment in New Jersey

Sexual harassment is more than just an uncomfortable experience—it’s a form of unlawful sex discrimination under both state and federal laws. In New Jersey, sexual harassment is categorized into two main forms: quid pro quo harassment and hostile work environment.

Quid Pro Quo Harassment

Often referred to as supervisor harassment, quid pro quo harassment involves a person in a position of authority demanding sexual favors in exchange for employment benefits. This could include:

• Promotion: A supervisor offering a promotion in return for sexual advances.
• Salary Increase: Demanding sexual favors in exchange for a raise.
• Job Security: Threatening job loss unless sexual favors are granted.

Hostile Work Environment

A hostile work environment occurs when unwelcome conduct, comments, or displays create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work atmosphere. This can involve:

• Visual Conduct: Staring, leering, or displaying sexually charged images.
• Verbal Conduct: Making derogatory comments, jokes, or slurs of a sexual nature.
• Physical Conduct: Unwanted touching or sexual assault.

Sexual harassment can be perpetrated by anyone in the workplace—supervisors, coworkers, vendors, or clients. Regardless of the perpetrator, the harassment must be severe or pervasive enough to affect your ability to perform your job.

Taking Action: What to Do If You Experience Sexual Harassment

If you find yourself facing sexual harassment, it’s important to take specific steps to protect your rights and strengthen your case. Here’s what you can do:

• Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of offensive comments, conduct, and any related incidents. This includes taking note of dates, times, and witnesses.
• Address the Issue Directly: If you feel safe, tell the offender that their behavior is unacceptable and unwanted. This can sometimes halt further harassment.
• Follow Company Protocol: Report the harassment according to your company’s policy. Use official channels and create written records of your complaints.
• Seek Witnesses: Identify and contact anyone who might have witnessed the harassment or can corroborate your account.

These steps not only help build a stronger case but also protect your legal rights. Castronovo & McKinney, LLC is experienced in handling such cases and will use your documentation to support your claim.

How Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Can Assist You

At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we understand the complexities and sensitivities involved in sexual harassment cases. Our legal team is dedicated to supporting you through every step of the process. Here’s how we can help:

• Confidential Consultation: We offer a confidential space to discuss your case and explore your options.
• Thorough Investigation: Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate your claim, including gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
• Protection Against Retaliation: We ensure that your employer does not retaliate against you for coming forward. Retaliation can include any adverse employment actions such as firing, demotion, or pay cuts.
• Legal Representation: We will represent you throughout the legal process, from filing your claim to potentially going to trial if necessary.

Supporting a Positive Work Environment

While our primary focus is on protecting the rights of individuals who have experienced harassment, we also offer services to businesses. We provide guidance on:

• Developing Sexual Harassment Policies: Creating clear, effective policies to prevent harassment.
• Training and Education: Educating employees and management on recognizing and preventing sexual harassment.
• Handling Claims: Offering legal counsel to address and resolve harassment claims professionally and ethically.

Our goal is to help create a respectful and safe work environment for everyone.

Contact Castronovo & McKinney, LLC

If you’re dealing with sexual harassment in New Jersey, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Castronovo & McKinney, LLC is committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the justice you deserve.

For a confidential consultation, call us at 973.920.7888. We are here to support you every step of the way and help you navigate the complexities of your sexual harassment claim.

Remember, you don’t have to face this alone. Let us stand by your side and fight for your rights.