What to Do If You Were Wrongfully Terminated for Refusing Sexual Advances at Work?

Sexual harassment is a serious violation of workplace rights, and no one should feel unsafe or uncomfortable in their professional environment. Unfortunately, many employees face retaliation when they refuse sexual advances from a coworker or superior. If you have been wrongfully terminated for rejecting sexual advances at work, it is crucial to understand your rights and the steps you can take to protect yourself. As experienced Bergen County sexual harassment lawyers, we are here to guide you through the process.

Understand What Constitutes Wrongful Termination

Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired for illegal reasons, such as discrimination, retaliation, or violation of public policy. If your termination was directly tied to refusing sexual advances or reporting harassment, this may be considered a form of retaliation, which is prohibited by both federal and New Jersey state laws.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects workers from discrimination and harassment based on sex, including unwelcome sexual advances. Additionally, the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) offers further protections against sexual harassment and retaliation in the workplace. If you were fired after refusing sexual advances, you may have grounds for a wrongful termination claim.

Document Everything

One of the most important steps in protecting your rights is to document everything related to the incident. Keep a detailed record of the following:

• Date and time of each incident of harassment
• Description of the sexual advances or inappropriate behavior
• Witnesses who may have observed the harassment
• Your response to the advances, including your refusal and any actions you took to address the situation
• Correspondence between you and your employer regarding the issue, such as emails, messages, or written complaints

These records will serve as crucial evidence in any legal claim or lawsuit. It is also important to note that if your employer fails to take any corrective action, this may strengthen your case.

Report the Harassment to HR

If you have not already, you should report the sexual harassment to your company’s Human Resources (HR) department or another designated individual within your organization. In many cases, employers are legally obligated to investigate complaints of harassment and take appropriate action to stop it. Reporting the harassment is also important for showing that you made your employer aware of the situation.

Ensure you follow the procedures outlined by your company’s harassment policies. If your employer fails to address the issue or the harassment continues after your complaint, this could strengthen your claim of wrongful termination.

Seek Legal Advice From Bergen County Sexual Harassment Lawyers

If you have been fired after refusing sexual advances, it is essential to consult with a qualified employment attorney. A lawyer experienced in handling sexual harassment and wrongful termination cases will be able to help you understand your legal options, whether it is negotiating a settlement, pursuing a wrongful termination lawsuit, or filing a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR).

Take Action Today: Contact the Bergen County Sexual Harassment Lawyers at Carcich O’Shea for a Consultation

Being wrongfully terminated for refusing sexual advances at work is not only deeply unjust but also illegal. Contact the Bergen County sexual harassment lawyers at Carcich O’Shea today for a consultation. Call 201-988-1308 or contact us online. Located in Hackensack, New Jersey, we serve clients in Bergen County, Edison County, Essex County, Morris County, and Passaic County.