Detroit Workplace Sexual Harassment Attorneys

There may have been a time, not long ago, when sexual harassment in the workplace was dismissed as “boys being boys,” harmless joking, or simply the way things were. That time has passed. Unwanted and demeaning sexual comments, non-consensual touching, and other forms of inappropriate behavior are unacceptable and inexcusable – and against the law.  

Zero Tolerance for Sexual Harassment

No one – male or female, young or old – should have to endure the indignity, embarrassment, or trauma of sexual harassment when they go to work. When victims report such misconduct to their employers, they should expect swift action to address the problem. When harassment continues, and companies fail to take the appropriate investigatory and disciplinary steps in response to complaints, victims deserve the support and resources needed to vindicate their rights.

At Sommers Schwartz, we have zero tolerance for workplace sexual harassment. Our employment attorneys understand the psychological and emotional fallout from such behavior. We know the fear and worry about careers, reputations, and personal safety that can make victims think twice before reporting harassment. We are steadfast allies and determined advocates for sexual harassment victims, using our extensive experience and understanding of applicable federal and state laws to get our clients the justice and compensation they deserve.

What Is Sexual Harassment?

Workplace sexual harassment takes many forms, some blatant and overt, while other acts or comments are so subtle and gradual that the victim may not even recognize the misconduct at first.

There are two primary categories of sexual harassment under both federal and Michigan law: acts and comments that create a hostile work environment and those that involve a quid pro quo. The former refers to harassment that is so severe, consistent, or pervasive that it creates a work environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile, or abusive. The latter involves a request or demand for sexual favors in exchange for or as a condition of employment opportunities or continued employment. 

Common examples of prohibited sexual harassment include: 

• Propositions for sex in exchange for benefits. 
• Being fired or punished for refusing an advance. 
• Touching, rubbing, or other unwanted contact. 
• Inappropriate texts, photos, emails, or messages. 
• Leering or staring.  
• Exposure of genitals or other body parts. 
• Sexually explicit or pornographic images and videos. 
• Rude or overtly sexual comments about someone’s body. 

You Should Not Have to Fight Harassment on Your Own – And You Do Not Have To

For victims of workplace sexual harassment, knowing how best to respond to such behavior – or deciding whether to respond at all – can be a significant challenge. Not wanting to rock the boat, antagonize a superior, or lose their jobs can prevent employees from taking appropriate actions to stand up for themselves. But if nothing is done, nothing will change.

Harassed workers need to understand their rights under the law and their employers’ policies and procedures for reporting sexual harassment. They need to document the misconduct and provide such evidence to those at their company charged with addressing harassment claims.

Even when victims do all the right things and follow the appropriate internal reporting processes, employers can still fail in their legal responsibilities to prevent and promptly correct the harassing behavior. Even worse, they may retaliate against a victim for complaining about and reporting the harassment. When that happens, employers can and must be held accountable. 

Sommers Schwartz: Michigan Workplace Sexual Harassment Attorneys

Men and women dealing with sexual harassment and struggling with what to do about it can turn to the employment lawyers at Sommers Schwartz for answers, guidance, and relief from the conduct that has made their jobs and lives so painful. You do not need to suffer in silence. We will listen to your story, advise you of your options, and chart a course to end the harassment and provide the relief you deserve. Please contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help.