Workplace harassment refers to unwelcome conduct that creates a hostile or intimidating environment, particularly when it targets individuals based on race, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability. Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, such behavior is explicitly prohibited, and employers have a legal obligation to prevent and address harassment in the workplace.
Are you feeling anxious or stressed at work because of certain behaviors that seem to cross the line into harassment? It is important to trust your instincts; if you find yourself dreading the office or feeling isolated, it might be more than just workplace stress.
If you suspect you are experiencing workplace harassment, reach out to a Winston-Salem workplace harassment attorney at The Noble Law for help.
Types of Workplace Harassment
Workplace harassment can manifest in different forms and has serious implications for both the victim and the workplace as a whole. Common forms of harassment include:
Verbal Abuse
This can range from derogatory comments and slurs to inappropriate jokes or threats that target a person’s identity or background.
Physical Conduct
This includes any unwanted physical interaction, such as touching, grabbing, or even stalking.
Visual Harassment
Displaying offensive images, posters, or emails that demean or belittle individuals based on their protected characteristics falls under this category.
Bullying or Intimidation
Repeatedly undermining, isolating, or intimidating someone to create an uncomfortable workplace environment is a form of harassment.
Sexual Harassment
This includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or any other conduct of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating or hostile work environment. It encompasses both quid pro quo scenarios, where job benefits are contingent upon sexual favors, and hostile work environments, where pervasive sexual conduct creates a toxic atmosphere.
Retaliation
This occurs when someone faces negative consequences for reporting harassment or participating in an investigation. Actions like demotion, unfair treatment, or disciplinary measures only compound the harm done.
How a Winston-Salem Workplace Harassment Attorney Can Help
Deciding to take a stand against workplace harassment is a courageous step and having a knowledgeable workplace harassment attorney can significantly ease the burdens you face. If the time comes to file a formal complaint with the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission), you can trust us to handle every detail with precision and care so that it is done correctly and on time.
Whether we are negotiating a fair settlement on your behalf or passionately advocating for you in court, our mission is clear: to protect your job, pursue compensation for the damages you sustained, and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
Signs of Workplace Harassment
The following indicators often serve as the first clue that something is amiss in your work environment. Here are some key signs to watch for:
- Increased Anxiety or Stress: If you find yourself feeling anxious or stressed before interacting with certain colleagues or entering particular areas of the workplace, it could indicate ongoing harassment.
- Withdrawal from Coworkers: If you begin to isolate yourself or avoid team gatherings and social interactions due to fear or discomfort, it is essential to recognize this behavior as a potential sign of harassment.
- Decline in Job Performance: A drop in your usual performance levels, including difficulty concentrating or completing tasks, can be a reflection of the emotional toll that harassment takes on your mental state.
If you have noticed your work suffering because you are constantly on edge and avoiding certain people or situations, and the situation has escalated to the point where it is impacting your ability to perform your job, do not dismiss your feelings. They are valid and addressing them is important for your well-being.
Steps to Take if You Experience Harassment
Taking these steps can help put you in control and set you on the path to resolving the issue.
Keep a Record
Start by documenting every instance of harassment—dates, times, names involved, what was said or done. Save any evidence, like emails, text messages, or screenshots. These details are crucial later on if you need to prove your case.
Report It
Once you have gathered enough information, report the harassment to your supervisor or HR department, following your company’s procedures. It is always best to put this in writing—this creates an official record of your complaint that will be hard to ignore.
Talk to an Attorney
If the harassment does not stop or if your employer is not taking your concerns seriously, reach out to an attorney. The Noble Law Firm can guide you through your legal options and help you decide whether filing a formal complaint or lawsuit is necessary.
Speak To a Winston-Salem, NC Employment Lawyer
You should not have to endure discomfort or fear when you step into the office each day. At The Noble Law, we focus on you and your needs and are committed to making sure your concerns are not only heard but taken seriously.
If you are facing harassment or believe your rights have been violated, you may have a solid foundation for a legal claim. Contact us to set up a confidential consultation by calling or visiting us in person at our office in Winston-Salem, or filling out our online form.
An experienced North Carolina employment attorney can assess the merits of your case and provide valuable legal advice for your workplace dispute.
Learn More
Here at The Noble Law, we are committed to educating our communities in North Carolina and South Carolina about employment law and their rights in the workplace. We believe part of our job as an employment law firm is to share our expertise with others. Explore our resources, including more employment law videos, and keep up with our employment law firm news by following Noble Notes.
Along with representing clients with claims of workplace harassment, sexual harassment, and workplace assault, we also represent workers in other areas of employment law. These areas include executive compensation disputes; workplace discrimination; retaliation and whistleblower; and pay, overtime, and leave. Learn more about our employment law firm’s Practice Areas and if you are interested in speaking with one of our employment attorneys in North Carolina or South Carolina, contact us today.