Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Portland

About Sexual Harassment Law in Portland, United States

Sexual harassment refers to unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or any other verbal, physical, or visual conduct of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment. In Portland, United States, there are laws in place to protect individuals from sexual harassment in various settings, including workplaces and public accommodations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

It is essential to consult with a lawyer if you have experienced sexual harassment to understand your rights and legal options. A lawyer can guide and support you in various situations, such as:

• Understanding the legal definition and elements of sexual harassment
• Assessing the strength of your case and determining if legal action is appropriate
• Providing guidance on how to gather evidence and document incidents of harassment
• Representing you during negotiations with the other party or in court
• Protecting you from retaliation for reporting sexual harassment

Local Laws Overview

In Portland, United States, there are specific laws that are particularly relevant to sexual harassment cases. Some key aspects include:

• Oregon Workplace Fairness Act: This law extends the statute of limitations for filing sexual harassment claims from one year to five years and prohibits non-disclosure or non-disparagement agreements related to harassment, among other provisions.
• Portland City Code: The city code prohibits sexual harassment in various settings, including employment, public accommodations, housing, and city contracting.
• State and Federal Laws: Sexual harassment cases in Portland may also be governed by state laws such as the Oregon Equality Act and federal laws like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which provide additional protections.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if I am being sexually harassed at work?

If you are being sexually harassed at work, it is important to document the incidents, report them to your supervisor or human resources department, and consult with a sexual harassment lawyer to understand your legal rights and options.

2. Can I sue for sexual harassment even if I did not lose my job?

Yes, you can sue for sexual harassment even if you did not lose your job. Sexual harassment cases can seek remedies such as compensation for emotional distress, punitive damages, and injunctive relief to stop the harassment.

3. Are there any time limits to file a sexual harassment claim in Portland?

Yes, there are time limits to file a sexual harassment claim in Portland. The specific time limits can vary depending on the circumstances and the laws that apply. Consulting with a sexual harassment lawyer promptly is crucial to ensure compliance with the applicable deadlines.

4. What should I do if my employer retaliates against me for reporting sexual harassment?

If your employer retaliates against you for reporting sexual harassment, it is important to document the retaliation and consult with a sexual harassment lawyer. Retaliation is illegal, and you may have grounds for a separate legal claim.

5. Can I file a sexual harassment claim anonymously in Portland?

Generally, it is difficult to file a sexual harassment claim anonymously in Portland. However, you can consult with a sexual harassment lawyer who can guide you on how to protect your identity and privacy while pursuing legal action.

Additional Resources

If you need further information or assistance regarding sexual harassment, consider reaching out to the following resources:

• Portland Bureau of Human Resources
• Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries
• Oregon State Bar Lawyer Referral Service
• Legal Aid Services of Oregon

Next Steps

If you believe you have experienced sexual harassment and need legal assistance, here are the recommended next steps:

• Document incidents of harassment, including dates, times, locations, and any witnesses.
• Report the harassment to your employer, following their internal procedures.
• Consult with a sexual harassment lawyer to understand your rights and legal options.
• File a complaint with the appropriate local or state agency if necessary, such as the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries.
• Work with your lawyer to gather evidence and evaluate the strength of your case.
• Consider pursuing mediation or legal action to address the sexual harassment.