Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Wisconsin

About Sexual Harassment Law in Wisconsin, United States

Sexual harassment is unlawful in Wisconsin, both in the workplace and in educational environments. The law protects employees, students, and others from unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile or offensive environment. These protections arise under both state and federal law, and victims have the right to report incidents and seek relief without fear of retaliation. Understanding your rights and options is essential if you believe you have experienced sexual harassment.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

If you have experienced sexual harassment or have been accused of such conduct, legal guidance can be crucial. Common situations where people seek legal help include:

• Receiving inappropriate comments, gestures, or messages at work or school
• Facing retaliation for reporting or resisting unwanted behavior
• Being denied a promotion, raise, or other benefit due to submission to or rejection of sexual advances
• Needing to file a complaint with your employer, school, or a government agency
• Receiving notice of an investigation or legal action
• Negotiating settlements or severance if asked to leave a hostile environment
• Seeking damages or other remedies for harm suffered

A knowledgeable attorney can help you understand your rights and responsibilities, guide you through the reporting and investigative process, and represent your interests during negotiations or court proceedings.

Local Laws Overview

Sexual harassment in Wisconsin is addressed primarily under the Wisconsin Fair Employment Law (WFEL), which prohibits discrimination in employment, including harassment based on sex. Key aspects include:

• Employers are required to maintain harassment-free workplaces and can be held liable for failing to prevent or address sexual harassment
• Harassment is unlawful even if not accompanied by economic harm, as long as it creates a hostile or intimidating environment
• The law protects workers, regardless of gender, from harassing conduct by supervisors, coworkers, or even non-employees like customers
• The statute of limitations for filing a complaint is generally 300 days from the most recent incident

Additionally, federal protections are provided under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and, for students, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes sexual harassment under Wisconsin law?

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

Does sexual harassment only apply to the workplace?

No. While most complaints arise in employment settings, sexual harassment laws also apply in educational institutions and other areas covered by state and federal discrimination laws.

What should I do if I believe I have been harassed?

Document each incident in detail, report the behavior following your employer or school's established procedure, and consider consulting a qualified attorney for advice.

Can I file a complaint if the harassment was from someone who is not my boss?

Yes. Sexual harassment laws protect you from inappropriate behavior by supervisors, coworkers, customers, or others at your workplace or school.

Is retaliation legal if I file a complaint about sexual harassment?

No. It is illegal for an employer or school to retaliate against you for filing a complaint or participating in an investigation related to sexual harassment.

How long do I have to file a complaint?

Generally, you must file a complaint within 300 days of the most recent harassing incident in Wisconsin, but you should act as quickly as possible.

Do I need proof or witnesses to make a claim?

While evidence or witnesses can help, your testimony and detailed records of the incidents are often sufficient to begin an investigation.

What kinds of remedies are available?

Remedies can include reinstatement, back pay, emotional distress damages, changes to workplace policies, and other forms of relief to address or prevent further harassment.

Can I resolve sexual harassment claims without going to court?

Yes. Many claims are resolved through internal procedures, mediation, or settlement agreements before reaching a courtroom.

Will my complaint be confidential?

Your complaint will typically be kept as confidential as possible, but some level of disclosure may be necessary to conduct a fair investigation.

Additional Resources

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

• Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, Equal Rights Division
• United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
• Wisconsin Coalition Against Sexual Assault
• Local legal aid societies and bar associations
• Title IX coordinators at educational institutions

Next Steps

If you believe you have experienced or been accused of sexual harassment in Wisconsin, you should take the following steps:

• Preserve evidence and document every incident as thoroughly as possible
• Report the behavior to your employer, human resources department, or school, following official policies
• Consult an experienced attorney specializing in sexual harassment or employment law for personalized legal advice
• Consider contacting local or state agencies to file a formal complaint if internal procedures do not resolve the issue
• Seek support from advocacy organizations and counselors as needed

Prompt action is vital. A lawyer can help you evaluate your options and protect your rights at every stage of the process.