AD | According to RAINN, on average, up to 423,020 persons over the age of 12 are victimized by some act of sexual violence every year. These numbers reflect a continued prevalence of sexual harassment/assault in the United States. This can happen anywhere, even in the workplace, creating a hostile environment where you feel unsafe, says Lancaster sexual harassment attorney Jennifer Kramer. Let’s take a look at how an attorney can help you find a way to protect your rights, and your future.
Document Every Harassment Incident Thoroughly
Documentation is considered evidence and can help strengthen your case when claims or rights are at stake in court. So, every time you are harassed, document it accordingly. Make sure you write down the date, time, and place of every occurrence, along with the names of any witnesses who could be called for testimony in the hearing.
Describe everything with great detail, particularly how it affects you. The offender doesn’t need to cause physical harm or contact. Even indecent exposure can be considered illegal and violates community standards and legal boundaries.
Documents and records you collect will be used as evidence. When you articulate a clear story of your experience, it becomes easier for others and yourself to act on it. And proper documentation strengthens your stance.
Gather Supporting Evidence
Any and all evidence should be gathered while preparing for a harassment claim as this helps you prove your side of the story. Screenshot every digital message you received that constitutes harassment. It could be an email, text message, or even a social media post.
You should also list names of witnesses who can testify and support your claim.
Keep any documents that establish the harassment environment. It could be an appraisal report or company policies. You can also try to establish the chronological order of events connected to the incident.
Being organized will you keep your feelings in check, and it will demonstrate to others your commitment regarding the matter. People should support and respect you.
Seek Support From Trusted Individuals
People who are harassed may feel isolated and lonely. They need trustworthy people to help them break the cycle and move on.
Expressing feelings to friends, relatives or co-workers can help lighten the burden you’re feeling. Your feelings are validated, and some of the stress may disappear.
Consider joining support groups where you can meet others going through the same ordeal – it’s more than OK to lean on others. Finding power through sharing will help you feel more resolute and confident as your matter progresses.
Understand Your Rights and Legal Options
Having a good support system will make you feel stronger when you speak up about your rights and legal options regarding a harassment allegation. You have the right to feel safe and respected at all times.
Different states may have different laws about workplace harassment. But your documents and records will help when you decide to go to court.
Assertiveness involves not just learning what your rights are, it’s also about embracing that power to fight for them. And part of that power is reaching out to communities who can support you through these trials.
Consult With a Professional or Legal Advisor
Legal professionals will understand the particular facts of your harassment case and their advice will give you confidence as you pursue legal justice.
They’ll help you assert your rights and provide options for your next steps. Your feelings and experiences count. Your lawyer will give you clear instructions about collecting evidence and jotting down instances in preparation for going to court.
And having them on side will be a good morale booster as you face the challenge in front of you. They will have seen and represented clients in cases like yours before, so they’ll be very familiar with what you’re going through.
Have you ever had to think about filing a harassment claim? Would these steps help you feel more confident about moving forwards?
* This is a collaborative post – please see my Disclaimer.
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