Sexual harassment includes requests for unwanted sexual advances, sexual favors or other conduct of an inappropriate nature that affects your employment or creates a hostile work environment. This can range from inappropriate comments or jokes to unwanted touching, sexual propositions or displaying offensive materials. The crucial point is that the behavior is unwelcome and fosters an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment, ultimately disrupting your ability to perform your job effectively.
Sexual Harassment
Chicago Sexual Harassment Lawyer
Understanding what sexual harassment is in the eyes of the law can help you avoid allegations of sexual harassment. Our qualified Chicago sexual harassment lawyer provides you with that understanding.
We know that freedom from sexual harassment is covered under federal law by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and at the state level under the Illinois Human Rights Act. Both federal and state laws define sexual harassment as actions that can apply to either males or females in situations involving the same sex or opposite sex. Sexual harassment under federal law is not limited to the person being harassed but can be anyone affected by the offensive conduct. As your sexual harassment lawyer, The Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline has the experience, education, dedication and record of success to help you win a trial, obtain a great settlement or defend against a lawsuit. Call for a FREE consultation.
Sexual harassment covers all types of inappropriate words and action
Mitchell A. Kline has been a sexual harassment lawyer in Chicago for more than 30 years. At The Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline, we understand that sexual harassment is a traumatic experience and that you do not always feel comfortable talking about it. Our firm is sensitive and understanding and treats you with compassion, respect and dignity. Coming forward with a sexual harassment claim is not easy. Our sexual harassment team holds your hand throughout the legal process.
Sexual harassment affects men and women alike and includes a variety of words and actions, such as:
- Touching someone inappropriately
- Promising job advancement in exchange for sexual or romantic activities
- Engaging in uninvited “x-rated” conversations
- Gesturing in a provocative way
Each of these examples becomes a much stronger case if the victim reports the harassment to management and the behavior continues. If any of these examples sound familiar, call our sexual harassment attorney in Chicago today for a free initial consultation.
Call now for your FREE consultation
The Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline is here to help whether you are a victim of sexual harassment or have been accused of sexual harassment in metropolitan Chicago. Call today for your free consultation.
FAQs About Sexual Harassment in Illinois
What is considered workplace sexual harassment?
What's the difference between quid pro quo and hostile work environment harassment?
Quid pro quo harassment happens when job benefits like promotions, raises or continued employment are conditioned on submitting to sexual advances. This typically involves someone in a position of authority making employment decisions based on sexual favors. Hostile work environment harassment involves pervasive unwelcome sexual conduct that generates an intimidating or offensive workplace, even without direct threats to your job. Both types are illegal and can form the basis for legal action.
Who can be held responsible for sexual harassment?
Multiple parties can be held liable for sexual harassment, including the individual perpetrator, supervisors who knew or should have known about the harassment and the employer itself. Companies have a legal duty to prevent and address sexual harassment through proper policies, training and prompt investigation of complaints. When employers fail to take appropriate action after being notified of harassment, they can face significant legal consequences.
Do I have to report harassment to HR before filing a legal claim?
While not always legally required, reporting harassment through your company’s internal complaint process is generally recommended. This gives your employer an opportunity to address the situation and creates important documentation for your case. However, if you fear retaliation or believe internal reporting would be futile, you may proceed directly to filing an external complaint. The most important step is documenting everything and consulting with an experienced attorney.
Will my sexual harassment case go to trial?
Most sexual harassment cases settle out of court through negotiation or mediation. However, having an attorney prepared to take your case to trial often results in better settlement offers. Your attorney will examine the strength of your evidence and recommend a strategy to pursue maximum possible compensation while considering your privacy concerns and career goals.
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