Workplace harassment based on race, gender, religion, nationality, or sexual orientation occurs far too often. In cases of severe or constant harassment that creates a hostile work environment, an employer can be liable even if the harassment comes from co-workers. Employers are required to have systems in place to handle complaints about harassment, and a failure to address a complaint can make the employer liable under state and federal law.

The first step in dealing with workplace harassment is to file a formal complaint with a supervisor or the human resources department of the employer. The employer can’t be held responsible for not fixing the problem if you haven’t let the employer know about the problem.

Often, employees are afraid to complain about harassment because they feel that they may be punished for complaining. While this does occur, it is illegal for an employer to retaliate against an employee for filing a harassment complaint, and the employer can be sued for that alone.

If the employer doesn’t take steps sufficient to end the harassment, it’s time to call an attorney. There is no reason that you should have to work in an environment where you’re constantly subjected to insult and humiliation based on your gender, race, religion, nationality, or sexual orientation. You were hired to do a job, not to be abused.

At The Law Office of Cliff Dean Schneider, we’re here to help you when your employer fails to protect you from harassment.  The initial consultation is always free.