Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Delémont

About Sexual Harassment Law in Delémont, Switzerland

Sexual harassment in Delémont, as elsewhere in Switzerland, is taken seriously by employers, public authorities and the courts. Swiss federal law, cantonal regulations and workplace rules together provide options for victims - including internal complaint procedures, civil remedies to protect personality rights, and criminal sanctions when conduct meets the threshold for assault or coercion. Local police and the cantonal public prosecutor investigate possible criminal offences, while employers have a legal duty to prevent and stop harassment in the workplace.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal help can make a practical difference when you face sexual harassment. A lawyer can help in situations such as:

- Deciding whether the behaviour qualifies as sexual harassment or a criminal offence.

- Preparing and submitting a criminal complaint to police or the public prosecutor.

- Bringing civil claims for protection of personality rights, injunctions, or damages.

- Navigating workplace procedures - for example, if an employer fails to act, takes retaliatory measures, or initiates disciplinary proceedings against you.

- Seeking protective measures - including restraining orders or emergency measures - and representing you in hearings.

- Negotiating settlements, or representing you in court if the matter goes to trial.

- Accessing legal aid, medical evaluations and victim support services, and coordinating evidence collection.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal frameworks and practical points relevant in Delémont include:

- Federal law and criminal provisions - Unwanted sexual acts, sexual coercion and serious harassment can fall under Swiss criminal law. If the conduct involves assault, threats or coercion, police and the public prosecutor can pursue criminal charges.

- Employment law duties - Employers must protect employees from harassment and are required to take appropriate measures when they learn of harassment. This obligation comes from employment contract law and related duties to protect health and personality at work.

- Civil remedies - Victims may bring civil claims to stop harassment, protect personality rights and seek damages. Courts can order injunctions and compensation in appropriate cases.

- Cantonal procedures and services - Delémont is in the Canton of Jura, which provides local police, victim support and prosecutorial services. Cantonal authorities handle criminal investigations and can direct protective steps in urgent cases.

- Privacy and evidence - Swiss law protects personal data and medical information. Evidence collection should respect those rules while preserving proof - for example, saving messages, logging incidents and keeping medical records.

Frequently Asked Questions

What behaviour counts as sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment covers unwanted sexual attention or conduct that creates a hostile, intimidating, degrading or offensive environment. This can include verbal comments, gestures, physical contact, repeated invitations after refusal, sharing sexual images without consent and other unwanted conduct of a sexual nature. Whether behaviour is unlawful depends on seriousness, context and effect on the victim.

Is sexual harassment a criminal offence in Switzerland?

Some forms of sexual harassment may be criminal offences - for example, sexual assault, coercion, threats or other non-consensual sexual acts. Less severe forms that occur in the workplace may be addressed first through employment or civil law remedies. The police and public prosecutor decide if conduct merits criminal charges.

What should I do immediately after an incident?

Prioritise your safety. If you are in danger, call the emergency number. Preserve evidence - keep messages, screenshots, videos and any physical evidence. Write a detailed note about what happened with dates, times, locations and witnesses. Seek medical attention if needed and consider contacting victim support services for immediate help.

Can I report sexual harassment to my employer?

Yes. Many employers have reporting procedures and must investigate complaints. Reporting to HR or a manager is often a first step and can trigger internal measures to stop the conduct. If the employer does not act or you face retaliation, legal action may be necessary.

Should I go to the police?

If the conduct may be a criminal offence, or if you want a formal investigation and possible prosecution, you can file a police report. Police can advise about options and, where appropriate, forward the case to the public prosecutor. You can also seek criminal and civil remedies simultaneously in many cases.

Can my employer fire me for reporting harassment?

No. Employers are generally prohibited from taking retaliatory action against employees who report harassment. If you suffer dismissal or other retaliation after reporting, you may have claims under employment law and can seek remedies or reinstatement depending on the circumstances.

What kind of evidence is useful?

Useful evidence includes messages, emails, social media posts, call logs, photographs, witness statements, medical records, diary notes with dates and times, CCTV footage and any prior complaints. Preserve originals when possible and make copies for your records. A lawyer can help gather and present evidence in a lawful way.

Can I get compensation or an injunction?

Yes. Civil courts can order injunctions to stop harassment and may award damages for harm to personality rights, emotional distress or loss of earnings in appropriate cases. Remedies depend on the facts, the strength of evidence and applicable legal provisions.

How long do I have to bring a claim?

Time limits vary by the type of claim - criminal, civil or employment-related. Statutes of limitations apply, so you should act promptly. If you are unsure about deadlines, consult a lawyer or contact local authorities as soon as possible.

Can I get legal aid or free support?

Many cantons, including Jura, offer legal aid schemes for people with limited means. There are also victim support organisations, trade unions and counselling centres that provide advice and emotional support. A lawyer can advise on eligibility for legal aid and connect you with support services.

Additional Resources

For help in Delémont consider contacting:

- Local police in Delémont for immediate safety concerns or to file a criminal report.

- Cantonal public prosecutor or criminal investigation services in the Canton of Jura for criminal matters.

- Cantonal victim support services - these provide practical assistance and emotional support to victims.

- The Federal Office for Gender Equality - for information about workplace harassment and equality rights at the federal level.

- Employer resources - human resources departments and workplace equality officers where available.

- Trade unions and employee associations - for support in employment disputes.

- Women's shelters and counselling centres - for confidential support, safety planning and referrals.

- Swiss Bar Association or local bar for lawyer referrals and information about legal aid.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance for sexual harassment in Delémont, consider the following steps:

1. Ensure safety - move to a safe place and contact emergency services if you are in immediate danger.

2. Preserve evidence - save messages, take screenshots, keep physical evidence and record a detailed account of events and witnesses.

3. Seek medical and emotional support - visit a doctor if needed and reach out to victim support organisations for counselling and practical help.

4. Report - decide whether to report to your employer, the police or both. A lawyer can advise which route is most appropriate for your situation.

5. Consult a specialised lawyer - look for a lawyer experienced in employment law and criminal matters involving sexual harassment. Ask about confidentiality, fees and legal aid options.

6. Consider interim protections - if you fear ongoing contact, discuss emergency protective measures with the police, prosecutor or your lawyer.

7. Keep records of all steps you take and all communications. This helps your lawyer and any investigating authorities.

Note: This guide provides general information and does not replace personalised legal advice. For help tailored to your circumstances, contact a qualified lawyer or a local victim support organisation in Delémont or the Canton of Jura.