Advocates for a Safe Workplace: Lipari and Deiter’s Sexual Harassment at Work Attorneys in Atlantic City, NJ
Facing harassment in the workplace can be isolating and overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate this alone. Lipari and Deiter, your trusted South Jersey workplace sexual harassment lawyers, are here to provide support and guide you through the process of addressing workplace harassment. Whether it involves unwanted advances, inappropriate comments, or a hostile work environment, our legal team is committed to standing up for your rights and helping you seek the justice and dignity you deserve in the workplace. Our deep understanding of employment law litigation ensures that you’ll receive the support you need throughout the legal process. For help from a workplace sexual harassment attorney in South Jersey, contact Lipari and Deiter today online or call 609.645.9400 for a free consultation.
What is Workplace Sexual Harassment?
Workplace sexual harassment encompasses a range of behaviors that create a harmful, uncomfortable work environment for employees. Under New Jersey law, there are two primary types of workplace sexual harassment: “quid pro quo” and “hostile work environment.”
- Quid Pro Quo Harassment: This type of harassment occurs when someone in a position of power, such as a supervisor, demands sexual favors in exchange for job benefits like promotions or job security. This type falls under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD), N.J.S.A. 10:5-12 because it ties job benefits directly to the provision of sexual favors, which constitutes discrimination based on sex.
- Hostile Work Environment: A hostile work environment involves repeated actions or comments that make the workplace intimidating, hostile, or offensive. This could include inappropriate jokes, unwelcome physical contact, or even persistent, unwanted advances via email or text. NJLAD also addresses a "hostile work environment" when there are persistent, unwelcome behaviors that interfere with an individual’s work performance or create an intimidating or offensive atmosphere.
Workplace harassment isn’t limited to physical actions or verbal comments. In today’s digital age, harassing messages, explicit images, or offensive remarks through emails or social media also qualify as harassment if they impact your comfort and ability to work. At Lipari and Deiter, our sexual harassment at work attorneys in Atlantic City, NJ, have the experience needed to help you navigate the complexities of identifying and addressing these forms of harassment. If you feel that your work environment has become hostile due to such actions, you have the right to seek legal protection.
Your Rights Under New Jersey Law
New Jersey offers strong legal protections against workplace harassment, particularly through the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD), N.J.S.A. 10:5-12. This law prohibits discrimination and harassment in the workplace and offers employees the right to a safe, harassment-free work environment. Under NJLAD, employees in South Jersey and beyond are protected from both quid pro quo harassment and hostile work environments. Importantly, NJLAD applies to more than just interactions with supervisors. The law recognizes that harassment can come from coworkers, clients, or even third parties. In any situation where harassment negatively impacts your working conditions, you have the right to seek legal recourse.
There are time limits, however, associated with filing a claim under NJLAD, making it crucial to act promptly. Employees generally have two years from the date of the harassment incident to file a claim in civil court. This timeframe, or statute of limitations, has been established and confirmed through case law in Montells v. Haynes, 133 N.J. 282 (1993) and through interpretation by New Jersey courts. It is essential to act within this limited time for sexual harassment in the workplace when filing lawsuits for damages under NJLAD.
For claims filed with the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR), however, you have even less time. This different statute of limitations only allows victims to file within 180 days of the alleged act of discrimination or harassment. Luckily, there’s no need to navigate these confusing timeframes alone. At Lipari and Deiter, our South Jersey workplace sexual harassment lawyers can provide guidance on these timelines and the steps involved in pursuing your case.
Common Forms of Workplace Sexual Harassment
Workplace sexual harassment can take many forms, some of which may be subtle or disguised as humor or “friendly” behavior. Recognizing these forms of harassment is the first step in taking action. Some common examples include:
- Unwanted Sexual Advances: This includes overt requests for sexual favors or inappropriate romantic gestures.
- Sexually Inappropriate Comments or Jokes: Any repeated, suggestive comments or “jokes” that create an uncomfortable atmosphere.
- Lewd or Offensive Gestures: Gestures that are explicit or sexual in nature can be considered harassment if they are unwelcome.
- Sexually Explicit Materials: Displaying, sending, or sharing offensive images, videos, or other materials within the workplace is another form of harassment.
- Repeated, Intrusive Personal Questions or Invitations: Continuous questioning about your personal life, appearance, or private relationships that makes you uncomfortable.
- Retaliation for Reporting Harassment: Retaliation for speaking up against harassment, such as demotions, firing, or other forms of workplace punishment, is also illegal under NJLAD.
If any of these behaviors resonate with you, remember that Lipari and Deiter, sexual harassment at work attorneys in Atlantic City, NJ, are here to help you explore your rights. We work to protect clients facing these and other harassing behaviors, advocating for the fair treatment and respect every employee deserves.
How Lipari and Deiter and Our Sexual Harassment at Work Attorneys in Atlantic City, NJ Can Help
When faced with the uncomfortable reality of sexual harassment at work, having a skilled advocate by your side can make all the difference. The South Jersey workplace sexual harassment lawyers at Lipari and Deiter start with a thorough case investigation, carefully gathering critical evidence such as witness statements and any police reports. By building a strong, well-supported case, we help position you for the best possible outcome. Once the evidence is collected, we will assess the full extent of damages—financial, emotional, and psychological—giving you a clear picture of what compensation might cover. If a lawsuit is necessary, Lipari and Deiter handle every step of the process, from filing the claim to preparing for trial. We’re committed to advocating for your right to maximum compensation, covering both economic and non-economic damages such as emotional distress. With Lipari and Deiter on your side, you can move forward knowing that every aspect of your case is in skilled, committed hands.
Taking Action: What You Can Do Now
Facing sexual harassment in the workplace can be daunting, but taking a few key steps early on can help protect your rights and strengthen your case if you decide to pursue it:
- Document Incidents: Keep a record of any incidents of harassment, noting dates, locations, individuals involved, and any witnesses if applicable. This documentation can be valuable if you decide to take legal action.
- Speak with a Trusted Attorney: Consulting with an attorney can clarify your rights and options, even if you’re uncertain about taking immediate legal action. Lipari and Deiter’s South Jersey workplace sexual harassment lawyers can provide a confidential, supportive space to discuss your situation without obligation.
- Avoid Confrontation: While it may be tempting to address the harasser directly, this can complicate matters. Instead, keep communication formal and professional while documenting any additional harassment that may arise.
Taking action doesn’t mean you’re obligated to go to court, but it does give you a stronger foundation if you choose to pursue your rights. Lipari and Deiter are here to help—reach out to us today for a free, confidential consultation and take the first step toward a safer workplace.
Why Choose Lipari and Deiter’s South Jersey Workplace Sexual Harassment Lawyers?
When it comes to workplace sexual harassment, having the right legal representation can make all the difference. Lipari and Deiter’s South Jersey workplace sexual harassment lawyers are here to listen, guide, and support you through every step of the process. . With decades of combined experience in aggressively advocating for victims of complex workplace sexual harassment cases, we understand the emotional and professional impact this can bring. We approach every case with respect, confidentiality, and clear communication so you are supported through every step of the way.
Decades of Combined Experience
Lipari and Deiter’s South Jersey workplace sexual harassment lawyers bring years of experience and a proven track record of successfully advocating for victims in New Jersey.
Ready for Complex Cases
Our team understands the complexities of both state and federal laws, and is well prepared to fight for your right to a safe workplace environment free from sexual harassment.
Aggressive Advocates
With our commitment to fighting for justice, you can trust that we will vigorously pursue the best possible outcome for your sexual harassment case in South Jersey.
Contact Lipari and Deiter for a Free Consultation to Take the First Steps Toward Your Safety
If you're facing workplace harassment, you don’t have to handle it alone. Whether you're ready to take legal action or simply want to explore your options, we offer compassionate, thorough legal advice tailored to your needs. Our team will carefully listen to your experience during a no-obligation consultation, explain your available options, and answer any questions you may have. From there, we conduct a thorough evaluation of your case, review the evidence, and guide you in documenting incidents as needed.
Whether filing a claim with the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights or pursuing a lawsuit, Lipari and Deiter’s South Jersey workplace sexual harassment lawyers are dedicated to supporting you throughout the entire process, while also connecting you with resources to help you manage the emotional toll of harassment. Contact us today for a free confidential consultation, and let us help you take back control of your work environment and move forward with confidence. For help from a workplace sexual harassment attorney in South Jersey, contact Lipari and Deiter today online or call 609.645.9400 for a free consultation.