Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Washington

About Sexual Harassment Law in Washington, United States

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination that is illegal under both federal and state laws in Washington, United States. It refers to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, physical, or visual conduct of a sexual nature that create a hostile, intimidating, or offensive working or educational environment.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

In situations involving sexual harassment, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer who specializes in employment law or sexual harassment cases. Some common scenarios where legal help may be needed include:

• Experiencing ongoing sexual harassment at work
• Being retaliated against by an employer for reporting sexual harassment
• Receiving inadequate response or resolution from an employer
• Being wrongfully terminated due to reporting or experiencing sexual harassment
• Seeking legal advice on the appropriate steps to take in your specific situation

Local Laws Overview

In Washington, United States, the following key aspects of local laws are particularly relevant to sexual harassment:

• Washington Law Against Discrimination (WLAD) protects employees from sexual harassment in the workplace.
• Both public and private employers with eight or more employees are subject to WLAD.
• WLAD covers all forms of sexual harassment, including same-sex harassment.
• Employees who experience sexual harassment may file a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission or pursue a lawsuit in court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What should I do if I am experiencing sexual harassment at work?

If you are experiencing sexual harassment at work, it is important to document the incidents and report them to your employer following their established complaint procedure. Keep records of dates, times, locations, individuals involved, and any witnesses. If the harassment persists or your employer fails to take appropriate action, consult with an attorney to understand your legal options.

Q: Can I be fired for reporting sexual harassment?

No, it is illegal for an employer to retaliate against an employee for reporting sexual harassment. If you have been wrongfully terminated or faced adverse actions due to reporting, it is recommended to consult with an attorney to discuss potential legal remedies.

Q: Is there a time limit for filing a sexual harassment complaint in Washington, United States?

Yes, there is a time limit for filing a complaint. Generally, you must file a complaint within 180 days from the last incident of sexual harassment with the Washington State Human Rights Commission. However, it is advisable to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to understand the specific time limits that may apply in your case.

Q: What damages can I recover in a sexual harassment lawsuit?

In a successful sexual harassment lawsuit, you may be entitled to various forms of damages, which can include:

• Compensation for emotional distress or psychological harm
• Lost wages and future earning potential
• Reinstatement to your previous position, if applicable
• Punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer, in certain cases

Q: Can a non-employee, such as a customer or client, sexually harass me at work?

Yes, sexual harassment can occur not only between co-workers but also from customers, clients, or other non-employees. Your employer has a responsibility to take reasonable steps to protect you from harassment by non-employees. If you experience such harassment, notify your employer and document the incidents. If necessary, seek legal advice to understand your rights and options.

Additional Resources

If you need further assistance or information related to sexual harassment, consider reaching out to the following resources:

• Washington State Human Rights Commission: https://www.hum.wa.gov
• Legal Aid organizations in Washington: https://washingtonlawhelp.org/
• Office of the Attorney General, Washington: https://www.atg.wa.gov

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with a sexual harassment matter, follow these steps:

1. Gather any documentation or evidence related to the harassment incidents.
2. Consult with an attorney specializing in employment law or sexual harassment cases.
3. Discuss your situation and provide the attorney with all relevant information.
4. Follow the attorney's advice on how to proceed, whether it's engaging in negotiation, filing a complaint, or pursuing legal action.
5. Cooperate with your attorney throughout the process, providing any additional information as requested.