Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in New York

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Ice Miller LLP

Ice Miller LLP

New York, United States

Founded in 1910
350 people in their team
Built on a foundation of legal service more than a century long, Ice Miller LLP is committed to helping our clients stay ahead in a changing...
English
Phillips Lytle LLP

Phillips Lytle LLP

New York, United States

Founded in 1834
343 people in their team
At Phillips Lytle, we know only one approach to client service. It’s practiced by every one of our attorneys in each of our eight offices. It’s...
English
Stinson LLP

Stinson LLP

New York, United States

Founded in 2002
985 people in their team
Complex legal challenges are best approached with sharp insight and creative solutions. At Stinson, our attorneys combine industry knowledge and...
English

About Sexual Harassment Law in New York, United States

Sexual Harassment is considered unlawful discrimination under both the federal and New York State law. This inappropriate behavior can take on two forms: quid pro quo, where employment decisions depend on whether an employee submits to inappropriate sexual conduct, and hostile work environment, where the behavior creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. New York State’s law extends to all employers while federal law only applies to employers with 15 or more employees.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance may be required for several instances regarding sexual harassment. You may need a lawyer if you are a victim of sexual harassment and your employer has failed to act on your complaints, if you are being wrongly accused of sexual harassment, if you are experiencing retaliation after reporting harassment, or if you simply need help navigating through the laws and drafting or interpreting legal documents.

Local Laws Overview

The key aspects of local laws relevant to sexual harassment in New York are the New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL) and the New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL). Both strongly prohibit sexual harassment. NYSHRL provides protections to all employees statewide, even those who work at companies with fewer than four employees. The NYCHRL, on the other hand, is notably broad, affording protections to independent contractors and interns besides regular employees. It also stipulates that employers must conduct annual sexual harassment prevention training.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue my employer for sexual harassment in New York?

Yes, employees in New York can sue their employers for sexual harassment. You could sue for monetary damages depending on the severity of the harassment and the lack of preventive measures by the employer.

What qualifies as sexual harassment in New York?

Sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual advance, comment, or conduct that interferes with one's ability to perform their job or creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive work environment.

How long do I have to file a sexual harassment claim in New York?

In New York, you have three years from the last incident of harassment to file a claim under state law, and 300 days under federal law.

Is sexual harassment training required in New York?

Yes, under the NYSHRL, all New York employers must provide sexual harassment training to all employees at least once a year.

What should I do if I experience sexual harassment at work?

If you experience sexual harassment at work in New York, report it to your supervisor or human resources department in writing, and consult with a lawyer to protect your rights.

Additional Resources

For those seeking additional resources, the New York State Division of Human Rights and the New York City Human Rights Commission are great references. If the situation is grave, you may contact local law enforcement. Online resources like the EEOC and Nolo can provide more information on sexual harassment laws and rights.

Next Steps

If in need of legal assistance relating to sexual harassment, consult with a lawyer to evaluate your case. Documentation is critical for these cases so make sure to keep a record of incidents, your reports to management, and the actions taken by your employer. Legal professionals can guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.