Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Marietta

About Sexual Harassment Law in Marietta, United States

Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination that violates federal, state, and local laws in Marietta, United States. It typically refers to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature that occur at work, school, or in other contexts. The law protects individuals from harassment based on sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. In Marietta, these protections are enforced by both federal regulations, like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and by Georgia's state laws and local ordinances.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

If you have experienced sexual harassment, navigating the legal process can be daunting. Here are common situations where legal help is crucial:

• Your employer does not address your complaint or retaliates against you for reporting harassment.
• You were demoted, fired, or faced negative consequences after making a harassment complaint.
• You are unsure whether the conduct you experienced qualifies as sexual harassment under the law.
• You need help gathering evidence or filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a local agency.
• You want to explore your options for compensation or other remedies.
• You are accused of harassment and need to defend yourself against allegations.

A local attorney experienced in sexual harassment cases can guide you through your rights, the claims process, and any court proceedings that may follow.

Local Laws Overview

In Marietta, sexual harassment laws are enforced at multiple levels. Key aspects include:

• Federal Protection: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits sexual harassment in workplaces with at least 15 employees.
• State Law: Georgia law bars sexual harassment and protects employees, students, and tenants. The Georgia Fair Employment Practices Act and state court rulings add further support.
• Local Ordinances: Marietta and Cobb County have additional complaint processes and non-discrimination policies for public employees and contractors.
• Types of Sexual Harassment: Includes quid pro quo (when job or academic benefits depend on submitting to sexual advances) and hostile work environment (when pervasive conduct creates an intimidating or offensive atmosphere).
• Retaliation: Retaliating against a person for reporting harassment is illegal under both federal and state law.
• Reporting Process: Victims can file complaints with their employer, the EEOC, the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity, or seek help from local organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as sexual harassment in Marietta?

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. This includes inappropriate comments, emails, touching, gestures, or repeated requests for dates.

Does sexual harassment only happen at work?

No, it can also occur in schools, housing, businesses, and public spaces. Laws apply to workplaces, educational institutions, housing, and services.

Is my employer required to have a sexual harassment policy?

While not always legally mandated, most employers have policies due to federal guidelines. Having an anti-harassment policy is strongly recommended and may be required for government contractors.

What should I do if I am being harassed?

Document the incidents, report them to your employer or school, and keep a record of complaints. If the issue is not addressed, consider contacting the EEOC or a lawyer.

Can I be fired for reporting sexual harassment?

Retaliation for reporting harassment is illegal. If you are fired or face other negative consequences after reporting, you may have a separate claim for retaliation.

How long do I have to file a complaint?

Under federal law, you typically have 180 days from the incident to file a complaint with the EEOC. Georgia extends this to 300 days if local or state laws also apply. Prompt action is best.

What kind of compensation can I seek?

Remedies can include lost wages, reinstatement, damages for emotional distress, punitive damages, and attorney fees, depending on your case.

What if the harassment is from a co-worker and not a supervisor?

Employers can still be held responsible if they knew or should have known about the harassment and did not take prompt action to stop it.

What if I was not the person being harassed but witnessed it?

You can still report what you saw. Witnesses are protected from retaliation for making good faith reports or cooperating in investigations.

How can I find a lawyer experienced in sexual harassment cases in Marietta?

Many legal organizations and local bar associations maintain referral services. Look for attorneys who specialize in employment law or civil rights cases and have experience handling sexual harassment matters.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or support, these organizations and agencies can help:

• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
• Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity
• Cobb County Bar Association
• Marietta Legal Aid Offices
• Georgia Department of Labor
• Georgia Network to End Sexual Assault
• Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN)
• Local victim advocacy groups

Next Steps

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual harassment in Marietta, consider the following steps:

1. Document the behavior or incidents as clearly and thoroughly as possible.
2. Report the conduct using your employer, school, or landlord's complaint process.
3. If the problem is not resolved or the process is unclear, contact the EEOC or a local agency.
4. Consult a qualified attorney who practices sexual harassment law in Marietta to review your options and guide you through the legal process.
5. Seek emotional support or counseling if needed, through local advocacy or counseling services.

Taking prompt action can protect your rights and improve your chances of obtaining a positive outcome. Legal professionals in Marietta are available to help you understand your rights, explore remedies, and stand up against sexual harassment.