Morris County Sexual Harassment Lawyers
Hostile Environment • Gender Bias • Pregnancy Discrimination
If you have been sexually harassed, treated unfairly because of your gender, or hassled for becoming pregnant, we can help. The experienced employment law attorneys represent women (or men) in North Jersey in sexual harassment and gender discrimination lawsuits.
Contact us today at 973-607-4694 to discuss your case and determine if you have an actionable claim against your employer. We practice in Morris County, New Jersey, as well as Sussex and Warren counties.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is a form of employment discrimination under the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and under New Jersey laws. It can be perpetrated by a supervisor, a co-worker or even a client. You should never be expected to "put up with" workplace harassment in any form:
- Quid pro quo — demand for sexual favors in exchange for advancement or keeping your job
- Unwelcome advances (pressure for dates or sex)
- Groping or inappropriate touching or hugging
- Sexual comments about your body or clothing
- Explicit or suggestive jokes, e-mails, Internet postings or photos
Gender Discrimination
It is also illegal for a boss or co-workers to treat you as inferior because of your sex, including:
- Lower pay, denial of promotions, unequal discipline, unfavorable assignments
- Gender-based taunts, offensive comments or humiliation (sexual or non-sexual) that create a hostile work environment
Pregnancy Discrimination
In general, if you are expecting a child, your employer cannot:
- Terminate you, reduce your pay or withhold benefits
- Refuse reasonable accommodations to your job duties
- Refuse to grant pregnancy leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
- Discipline you for absence for pregnancy-related sickness or doctor visits
If you have been subjected to sexual harassment or discrimination, it is important to (a) document it and (b) report it to supervisors or their superiors. Bell & Hassing can advise you on the steps to take to build a viable case.
A lawsuit may seek compensation for your projected earnings and benefits, plus damages for emotional distress or damage to reputation. Punitive damages may apply if the discrimination was egregious or the company retaliated or failed to take action.
NOTE: If you quit your job because of unbearable treatment, you can still bring a claim for constructive discharge.
For compassionate guidance through a difficult time and aggressive pursuit of justice, contact Bell & Hassing today at 973-607-4694. We can arrange weekend appointments, and we have a Spanish speaker on staff.
