Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in St Louis

About Sexual Harassment Law in St Louis, United States

Sexual harassment is a form of unlawful discrimination based on sex, and it is prohibited under both federal and state law. In St Louis, as in the rest of the United States, sexual harassment in the workplace is governed by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Missouri Human Rights Act (MHRA). These laws aim to protect individuals from unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that affects employment conditions, creates an intimidating work environment, or interferes with job performance.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where a person may need legal assistance with a sexual harassment case in St Louis:

• Experiencing persistent unwanted sexual advances from a co-worker or superior.
• Facing retaliatory actions such as demotion or dismissal after rejecting advances or reporting harassment.
• Being subjected to a hostile work environment that disrupts job performance due to pervasive inappropriate behavior.
• Receiving inadequate responses or resolutions after reporting harassment to the employer.
• Needing guidance on how to file a sexual harassment claim with local or federal agencies.

Local Laws Overview

In St Louis, sexual harassment claims can be pursued under the Missouri Human Rights Act, which offers protections against discrimination in employment that are similar to those provided by federal law. Key aspects include:

• Harassment is illegal when enduring the offensive conduct becomes a condition of continued employment or creates an intimidating, hostile, or abusive work environment.
• Both the victim and the harasser can be either a man or a woman, and the victim does not have to be the person harassed but could be anyone affected by the offensive conduct.
• Employers are legally obligated to provide a safe work environment and can be held liable for harassment by supervisors, co-workers, or even non-employees like clients or customers.
• The Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) oversees the enforcement of these laws and can investigate claims and facilitate mediation between parties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes sexual harassment in the workplace?

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that affects employment, unreasonably interferes with work performance, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment.

Is sexual harassment in the workplace illegal?

Yes. Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Missouri Human Rights Act, sexual harassment is a prohibited form of employment discrimination.

Who is liable for sexual harassment in St Louis?

Both individuals accused of harassment and their employers can be held accountable, especially if the employer was negligent in addressing complaints or preventing harassment.

How do I file a sexual harassment complaint in St Louis?

You can file a complaint with the Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). It is advisable to consult with a lawyer for guidance through the process.

Can I be fired for reporting sexual harassment?

Retaliation against an employee for reporting harassment is illegal. If you face such actions, you may have a separate claim under anti-retaliation laws.

Can sexual harassment happen outside the workplace?

Yes, sexual harassment can occur in any context where there is an imbalance of power, although workplace harassment is most commonly addressed in legal claims.

Are men victims of sexual harassment in the workplace?

Yes, men can and do experience sexual harassment, though it is commonly unreported. Harassment laws protect all employees, regardless of gender.

Is there a time limit for filing a sexual harassment claim?

Under Missouri law, you generally have 180 days from the date of the last act of harassment to file a claim with the MCHR.

What evidence is needed to prove sexual harassment?

Good evidence could include detailed notes of incidences, emails or messages, witness testimonies, or any other documentation that supports the claim of a hostile work environment.

What should I do if I experience sexual harassment?

Report the harassment to your employer as soon as possible and document all incidents. Consider consulting with a lawyer to understand your legal rights and options.

Additional Resources

For individuals seeking more information or assistance regarding sexual harassment in St Louis, the following resources may be helpful:

• Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) - Handles complaints of discrimination.
• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) - Provides guidelines and processes for filing at the federal level.
• Local Law Clinics or Legal Aid Societies - Offer free or low-cost legal services and consultations.
• National Women's Law Center - Provides information and advocacy for gender equality in the workplace.

Next Steps

If you believe you have been a victim of sexual harassment in St Louis, consider taking the following steps:

• Document Incidents: Keep a detailed record of all instances of harassment including dates, times, locations, and potential witnesses.
• Report to Employer: Follow your workplace's policies for reporting harassment. This often involves informing a supervisor or human resources.
• Seek Legal Advice: Contact an attorney specializing in employment law to discuss your situation and understand your legal options.
• File a Complaint: If necessary, file a complaint with the MCHR or the EEOC within the statutory timelines.
• Self-Care: Consider seeking support through counseling or employee assistance programs to maintain well-being through the process.