Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Portland

About Sexual Harassment Law in Portland, United States

Sexual harassment refers to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, physical, or visual conduct of a sexual nature that create a hostile or offensive work environment. In Portland, as in the rest of the United States, sexual harassment is prohibited both by federal law and state laws, intended to protect employees from harassment.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are various situations where consulting a lawyer can be beneficial if you are dealing with sexual harassment:

• If you believe you have been a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace
• If you are unsure whether certain behavior constitutes sexual harassment
• If you are facing retaliation for reporting a sexual harassment incident
• If you need assistance in filing a complaint with the appropriate agency
• If you are considering pursuing legal action against the harasser or your employer

Local Laws Overview

Portland follows federal and state laws that prohibit sexual harassment. In addition to these, the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) enforces state laws related to sexual harassment in the workplace. It is important to be aware of the following key aspects:

• Employers in Portland are legally obligated to prevent and address sexual harassment in the workplace.
• Employees who experience sexual harassment should report it to their employers and, if necessary, the BOLI.
• The statute of limitations for filing a complaint is generally one year from the last incident of sexual harassment.
• Retaliation against an employee for reporting sexual harassment is illegal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What should I do if I am experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace?

A: It is important to document incidents, report the harassment to your employer or the appropriate HR department, and seek legal assistance to understand your rights and options.

Q: Can I file a sexual harassment complaint anonymously?

A: Yes, you may be able to file an anonymous complaint; however, doing so can impact the investigation process and the effectiveness of addressing the issue.

Q: How long do I have to file a sexual harassment complaint in Portland?

A: Typically, you have one year from the last incident of sexual harassment to file a complaint with the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI), but it's best to consult a lawyer for specific advice on your situation.

Q: Can I be retaliated against for reporting sexual harassment?

A: No, Oregon law prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for reporting sexual harassment. If you experience retaliation, it is important to seek legal advice to protect your rights.

Q: Should I hire a lawyer to handle my sexual harassment case?

A: While hiring a lawyer is not mandatory, having legal representation can be beneficial to understand your rights, negotiate with your employer, or pursue legal action if necessary.

Additional Resources

Here are some resources and organizations that can provide further guidance and assistance:

• Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) - https://www.oregon.gov/BOLI/Pages/index.aspx
• Legal Aid Services of Oregon - https://lasoregon.org/
• Portland Human Rights Commission - https://www.portland.gov/phrc

Next Steps

If you are experiencing sexual harassment in Portland, consider taking the following steps:

1. Document the incidents of harassment, including dates, times, locations, and descriptions.
2. Report the harassment to your employer or the appropriate HR department, following your workplace's complaint procedure.
3. Consult with an experienced sexual harassment lawyer to understand your rights, legal options, and potential courses of action.
4. If necessary, file a complaint with the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) within the applicable timeframe.
5. Familiarize yourself with the resources and organizations that can provide support throughout the process.