According to the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, there were 1,206 complaints of workplace harassment filed in the state in 2017. Of those complaints, 33.6% were filed by women, 19.8% were filed by men, and 46.6% were filed by both genders. 

Obviously , no one deserves to be the victim of workplace harassment. Unfortunately, it is a reality for many people. Workplace harassment can take many different forms, from sexual harassment to racial discrimination. It can make going to work each day a nightmare. If you are in such a situation, you should  hire a workplace harassment lawyer and be a part of  stopping discrimination in the workplace.

The #MeToo movement has brought the issue of sexual harassment in the workplace to the forefront of public discussion. In Massachusetts, the law prohibits sexual harassment in the workplace and provides protection for employees who experience it.

What is Workplace Sexual Harassment?

Each year, discrimination lawyers in Massachusetts receive thousands of workplace harassment complaints. 

Workplace sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination that occurs when an employee is subjected to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. This type of harassment can create a hostile work environment that interferes with an employee’s ability to do their job.

Sexual harassment is not limited to situations where the harasser is of the opposite sex. It can also occur between employees of the same sex. Additionally, the victim does not have to be the person being directly harassed – anyone who experiences a hostile work environment because of the harassment can bring a claim.

What Protection Does Massachusetts Law Provide?

The Massachusetts Equal Rights Act (MERA) prohibits workplace sexual harassment. MERA is a state law that provides broader protection than federal law. Under MERA, an employer can be held liable for workplace sexual harassment if the employer knew or should have known about the harassment and failed to take reasonable steps to stop it.

An employee who experiences workplace sexual harassment can file a claim with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD). The MCAD is the state agency responsible for investigating claims of discrimination. If the MCAD finds that there is enough evidence to support a claim of discrimination, it will file a lawsuit on behalf of the employee.

What Are the Remedies for Workplace Sexual Harassment?

An employee who wins  a workplace sexual harassment claim can recover damages for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages. In some cases, an employee can also recover punitive damages, which are damages intended to punish the employer for particularly egregious conduct.

If you have experienced workplace sexual harassment, you should contact an experienced  harassment and discrimination lawyer to discuss your legal options. An attorney can help you navigate the process of filing a claim and ensure that your rights are protected.

How Does a Workplace Harassment Lawyer Help You?

If you have been the victim of workplace harassment, you may be wondering how a workplace harassment lawyer can help you. First and foremost, a workplace harassment lawyer can help you by providing you with legal representation. This means that if you decide to take your case to court, your lawyer will be able to advocate on your behalf and ensure that your rights are protected.

Second, a workplace harassment lawyer can help you by investigating your claim. This can include interviewing witnesses, reviewing documents, and gathering evidence. This investigation will help to build a strong case against your harasser and may also help to secure a financial settlement.

Third, a workplace harassment lawyer can help you by negotiating with your employer. If your case is strong enough, your lawyer may be able to negotiate a favorable settlement on your behalf. This settlement may include financial compensation, a change in your work environment, or both.

Finally, a workplace harassment lawyer can help you by providing you with emotional support. This support can be invaluable during what is likely to be a very difficult and stressful time.

If you have been the victim of workplace harassment, you should speak to a workplace harassment lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and options, and can work with you to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

 

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If you or someone you know, needs help from a lawyer, contact the law offices of Swartz & Swartz, use our live chat, or send us a message using the form below and we’ll get in touch to assess your case and how we can help.

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About the Author: James Swartz
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Mr. Swartz, our Managing and Principal Attorney at Swartz & Swartz P.C., is a nationally recognized and respected trial attorney as well as consumer advocate. His practice focuses on cases involving negligence, torts, products liability, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and other claims involving catastrophic injuries.

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