Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Georgia

About Sexual Harassment Law in Georgia, United States

Sexual harassment is a serious workplace and educational institution issue that occurs when unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature interfere with a person’s employment or education. In Georgia, as in the rest of the United States, sexual harassment is recognized as a form of discrimination prohibited by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as well as state and local laws. Georgia residents are protected from sexual harassment by both federal and state frameworks, which allow individuals to seek remedies if they have experienced harassment in the workplace, schools, or other settings. These laws apply to a variety of scenarios and can cover conduct from supervisors, co-workers, clients, and third parties.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Navigating sexual harassment claims can be complex and emotionally challenging. You may benefit from consulting a lawyer in situations such as:

• If you have been subjected to unwelcome sexual conduct at work, school, or another environment.
• If filing a complaint internally with your employer or institution did not resolve the issue.
• If you are facing retaliation for reporting sexual harassment, such as demotion, termination, or harassment.
• If you are unsure how to gather the right evidence or document your experience properly.
• If you need to file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity (GCEO).
• If you are considering a civil lawsuit against the harasser or employer.
• If you are an employer who wants help creating policies and defending against claims.

A lawyer can advise on your rights, help you understand deadlines, assess potential damages, and guide you through the often complicated complaint process.

Local Laws Overview

In Georgia, sexual harassment is primarily addressed under federal law via Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, but state agencies and some local ordinances provide avenues for complaints as well. Key legal aspects include:

• Sexual harassment is illegal in workplaces with 15 or more employees under federal law. Some cities and counties in Georgia may have broader local ordinances that protect smaller workplaces or additional settings.
• The Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity may investigate discrimination and harassment complaints for state employees. However, most private sector employees must usually utilize the federal EEOC.
• Sexual harassment includes quid pro quo harassment (where employment or academic benefits are conditioned on sexual favors) and hostile work or educational environments (where pervasive or severe unwanted conduct creates an intimidating or offensive atmosphere).
• Retaliation against someone for reporting harassment is also illegal.
• Victims may have as little as 180 days to file complaints with the EEOC, so prompt action is important.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some examples of sexual harassment in Georgia?

Sexual harassment can include unwanted touching, inappropriate jokes, sexually explicit emails or messages, repeated requests for dates after being turned down, or threats to fire or demote someone who refuses sexual advances.

Does sexual harassment only happen in the workplace?

No, sexual harassment can occur in schools, housing, public places, and other settings. Laws exist to protect individuals in educational institutions and sometimes in other environments beyond traditional employment.

Who can be a victim of sexual harassment?

Anyone can be a victim, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or age. Harassment can occur between colleagues, supervisors and subordinates, students and teachers, or even third parties like clients and vendors.

How do I report sexual harassment in Georgia?

You can start by reporting the conduct to your employer or institution through their formal complaint process. If not resolved, you can file a charge with the EEOC or with the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity if you are a state employee.

What should I do if I am being sexually harassed?

Document all incidents, including dates, times, witnesses, and details. Save relevant communications and report the harassment to your employer or designated authority as soon as possible. Consult a lawyer for guidance on your options.

Is there a deadline to file a complaint?

Yes, you must file a charge with the EEOC within 180 days of the last incident of harassment in most cases. In some situations, this can extend to 300 days if a state or local agency enforces a law that prohibits the same discrimination.

What protections exist against retaliation?

Employers and institutions cannot legally fire, demote, harass, or otherwise retaliate against someone for reporting sexual harassment or participating in an investigation. If this occurs, you have a separate claim for retaliation.

Can I sue my employer for sexual harassment in Georgia?

You may have grounds to sue, but you generally must first file a charge with the EEOC or applicable state agency and go through their investigation process. If the issue is not resolved, you may be issued a Notice of Right to Sue and take your case to court.

How is a hostile work environment defined in Georgia?

A hostile work environment exists when sexual harassment is so severe or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work setting that unreasonably interferes with job performance.

What remedies are available if I win a case?

Possible outcomes include reinstatement, back pay, front pay, compensatory damages, punitive damages, attorney’s fees, and policy changes at your workplace or institution.

Additional Resources

• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
• Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity (GCEO)
• Georgia Department of Labor
• Local law enforcement for criminal conduct
• Sexual assault and harassment support organizations such as Georgia Network to End Sexual Assault
• Legal aid societies, such as Georgia Legal Services Program or Atlanta Legal Aid Society
• Local bar associations with lawyer referral services

Next Steps

If you think you are experiencing sexual harassment in Georgia, act quickly to protect your rights. Start by documenting everything and reporting the conduct to your employer or institution through designated channels. Consult a reputable attorney experienced in sexual harassment law in Georgia for an assessment of your case. An attorney can help you understand deadlines and processes unique to your situation. You may also want to reach out to the EEOC or GCEO for guidance on how to file a formal complaint. Do not wait to seek legal or emotional support - addressing harassment promptly increases your chances of getting justice and can help prevent further incidents.