Navigating Sexual Harassment Claims: How Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Can Advocate for Your Rights in New Jersey

Sexual Harassment Lawyer in New Jersey remains a deeply troubling issue that affects many workplaces, despite increased awareness and legal protections. In New Jersey, sexual harassment is recognized as a form of unlawful sex discrimination under both state and federal laws. If you find yourself facing harassment at work, understanding your rights and options is crucial. Castronovo & McKinney, LLC is here to guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected and your voice is heard.

Understanding Sexual Harassment in New Jersey

Sexual harassment encompasses unwanted sexual behavior that interferes with an individual’s ability to perform their job. New Jersey law, in alignment with federal regulations, identifies two primary forms of sexual harassment:

Quid Pro Quo Harassment
Often termed supervisor harassment, quid pro quo involves a supervisor or someone in authority demanding sexual favors in exchange for employment benefits. This might include promotions, raises, or other employment advantages. The essence of quid pro quo harassment is the abuse of power, where job conditions are directly linked to the submission of sexual advances.

Hostile Work Environment
A hostile work environment occurs when unwelcome conduct creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work atmosphere. This type of harassment can be perpetrated by anyone in the workplace—supervisors, colleagues, clients, or vendors. For behavior to constitute a hostile work environment, it must be severe or pervasive enough to disrupt the employee’s ability to perform their job effectively.

Types of Sexual Harassment Behavior

Sexual harassment can manifest in various forms, including:

• Visual Conduct: This includes leering, inappropriate staring, or displaying sexually explicit objects, pictures, or cartoons.
• Verbal Conduct: Derogatory comments, sexual jokes, and offensive remarks fall into this category.
• Physical Conduct: This includes unwanted touching or any form of physical assault.
• Retaliation: Threatening adverse employment actions, such as firing or demotion, in response to the refusal of sexual advances also constitutes harassment.

While women are statistically more likely to be victims of sexual harassment, it is important to recognize that harassment can affect individuals of any gender, sexual orientation, or workplace status.

Why Choose Castronovo & McKinney, LLC?

Expert Legal Representation
At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we understand the complexities and emotional challenges associated with sexual harassment cases. Victims often hesitate to come forward due to fears of retaliation or damage to their reputation. Our attorneys are equipped with the knowledge and experience to handle such sensitive matters with the utmost discretion and efficacy.

Comprehensive Case Evaluation
When you engage our services, we commit to understanding the specifics of your situation thoroughly. We will work with you to explore all available legal options and help you determine the best course of action. Pursuing a sexual harassment lawsuit is a significant step, and we will support you throughout the entire legal process.

Strengthening Your Case: Key Steps to Take

To bolster your sexual harassment claim, consider the following actions:

• Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all offensive comments and behaviors. This includes saving emails, messages, or any other forms of communication that illustrate the harassment.
• Address the Offender: If you feel safe doing so, directly communicate to the offender that their conduct is unwelcome. This helps establish that you have made your boundaries clear.
• Create a Record: Document your attempts to resolve the issue, whether through verbal or written complaints. Using company email to file a formal complaint ensures there is an official record of your grievance.
• Report the Harassment: Follow your company’s policy for reporting harassment. This step is crucial in establishing that the harassment was brought to the attention of your employer.

Our legal team at Castronovo & McKinney, LLC will utilize this evidence to support your claim and seek out corroborating witnesses to strengthen your case.

Understanding Your Rights Against Retaliation

It is important to know that retaliation by your employer for reporting sexual harassment is illegal. Employers are prohibited from taking adverse actions—such as firing, demoting, or reassignment—against an employee who files a harassment claim. Should retaliation occur, it can also be subject to legal action.

Supporting Employers in Creating a Respectful Workplace

In addition to representing individuals, Castronovo & McKinney, LLC offers services to businesses. We provide counsel on establishing effective sexual harassment policies and reporting procedures. Our goal is to help businesses foster a positive and respectful work environment, reducing the likelihood of harassment claims and ensuring compliance with legal standards.

Contact Us for a Confidential Consultation

If you are experiencing sexual harassment at work or need assistance with developing workplace policies, contact Castronovo & McKinney, LLC. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you navigate the complexities of employment law.

Call us today at 973.920.7888 for a confidential consultation and take the first step towards achieving justice and securing a respectful work environment.

At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we are committed to standing by you every step of the way. Whether you are a victim of harassment or seeking to enhance your workplace policies, our expertise and dedication are here to support you.