How To Recognize & Document Sexual Harassment In the Workplace
Sexual harassment remains a serious and all-too-common issue in workplaces across West Virginia. Whether you work in Buckhannon, Clarksburg, Morgantown, or Parkersburg, it’s crucial to know how to identify inappropriate behavior and take the right steps to protect yourself.
At Klie Law Offices, our employment law attorneys advocate for workers who have been harassed, discriminated against, or wrongfully terminated. If you’re unsure whether you’ve experienced sexual harassment or how to document it, this guide is for you.
What Is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment includes any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
- Submission is a condition of employment.
- It affects an employee’s work performance or creates a hostile work environment.
Harassment can come from supervisors, coworkers, clients, or others. It may involve direct sexual comments or more subtle behavior, such as inappropriate jokes, unwanted touching, or lewd emails.
Common Examples of Sexual Harassment
- Repeated sexual jokes or comments
- Sharing sexually explicit images or messages
- Unwanted touching or physical contact
- Offering job perks in exchange for sexual favors
- Making threats or retaliating when advances are rejected
Remember, harassment doesn’t have to be physical. Verbal and visual forms of harassment are equally serious.
How To Recognize the Signs
- Make you feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or humiliated
- Interfere with your ability to do your job
- Seem to target you based on your gender or sexual identity
West Virginia Laws Protect You
Both federal and state laws prohibit sexual harassment at work, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. West Virginia law provides additional protections through the West Virginia Human Rights Act.
Employers are legally required to investigate harassment complaints and take action to stop inappropriate behavior. For more insights tailored to your location, visit our Clarksburg employment law page.
Why Documentation Is Critical
Strong documentation can make or break a sexual harassment case. The more detailed your records, the stronger your position if you choose to file a complaint or lawsuit.
How To Document Harassment:
- Write it down immediately: Keep a log of each incident with dates, times, locations, what happened, and who was present.
- Save evidence: Keep emails, text messages, screenshots, or photos related to the harassment.
- Report internally: Follow your company’s procedures for reporting harassment. Document when and how you reported it.
- Note the response: Record how your employer or HR responded to your complaint.
Do Not Delete Communications
Even if you feel embarrassed or upset, never delete messages or emails that could serve as evidence. These records can be crucial.
What To Do If You’re Being Harassed at Work
- Report it: Notify your supervisor or HR department.
- Consult a lawyer: If internal reporting doesn’t stop the behavior or leads to retaliation, seek legal advice immediately.
- Protect your rights: You may be entitled to compensation, job reinstatement, or other remedies under the law.
You can also review answers to frequently asked questions in our employment law FAQ section.
Klie Law Offices Can Help
We understand how stressful and painful workplace harassment can be. Our experienced employment attorneys are ready to listen, evaluate your case, and take strong legal action if necessary.
We serve workers across West Virginia, including:
- Buckhannon
- Clarksburg
- Morgantown
- Parkersburg
Ready to take the next step? Book an appointment with us today.
FAQs About Sexual Harassment at Work
Can I be fired for reporting sexual harassment?
No. Retaliation is illegal. If your employer takes adverse action against you for filing a complaint, that could be grounds for a separate legal claim.
What if there were no witnesses?
Many harassment cases are one-on-one. Your detailed documentation and any digital evidence can still support your claim.
Is one incident enough?
In some cases, yes—especially if it involves physical contact or a threat. Most claims involve repeated behavior, but not always.
How long do I have to file a claim?
There are strict deadlines. In many cases, you must act within 180 or 300 days. Talk to a lawyer right away.
Talk to a West Virginia Sexual Harassment Lawyer Today
If you’re experiencing or have experienced sexual harassment at work, don’t suffer in silence. Contact Klie Law Offices to protect your rights and explore your legal options.
