The Workplace Harassment Attorneys At Cleveland Lehner Cassidy Are Here To Answer Your Questions
At Cleveland Lehner Cassidy, our employment law attorneys understand how devastating and confusing workplace harassment can be. Our team is committed to protecting the rights of employees in Indiana who have suffered from workplace harassment. To discuss your case in detail, we encourage you to contact our law office in Indianapolis. We represent employees throughout Indiana.
What constitutes workplace harassment in Indiana?
Workplace harassment in Indiana includes any unwelcome verbal or physical behavior based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetic information. This behavior becomes unlawful when enduring the offensive conduct becomes a condition of continued employment, or the conduct is severe or pervasive enough to create a work environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile or abusive.
Sexual harassment is a common form of workplace harassment. Please see our unlawful sexual harassment overview to learn more about your options if you have been sexually harassed.
Are there specific laws in Indiana that address workplace harassment?
Yes, workplace harassment is addressed under federal laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), as well as Indiana state laws such as the Indiana Civil Rights Law. These laws prohibit discrimination and harassment in the workplace and provide mechanisms for employees to file complaints.
How can I identify if I am being harassed at work?
Identifying harassment can be tricky as harassment encompasses a wide range of behaviors. Signs of harassment include but are not limited to: jokes, insults, epithets, physical assaults or threats, intimidation, ridicule, offensive pictures, and more. If these behaviors are targeted towards you based on an aspect of your identity (such as gender, race or disability) and create a hostile work environment or employment decision affecting you, the behaviors may be considered unlawful harassment.
What should I do if I experience harassment at work?
If you experience harassment, it is advisable to first report the behavior to your employer using any internal complaint processes available. Document all incidents of harassment, noting dates, times, witnesses and details of the behavior. If the harassment does not stop, or if you face retaliation, contact the Indiana employment lawyers at Cleveland Lehner Cassidy to discuss your options for legal action. We can also provide advice if you have not yet reported the offensive behavior.
Unfortunately, employees who report sexual harassment also face wrongful termination. To learn more about rights after being wrongfully fired, please see our Wrongful Termination FAQ.
Can I file a lawsuit for workplace harassment in Indiana?
Yes, if you have experienced workplace harassment and your employer has not adequately addressed the issue, you may be able to file a lawsuit. The specific circumstances of your case will determine whether you should file your claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC) first, as these agencies handle such complaints at the federal and state levels, respectively. After filing with these agencies, you may receive a “right to sue” letter, which allows you to pursue your case in court. The workplace harassment attorneys at Cleveland Lehner Cassidy can guide you through this process, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to uphold your rights.
What types of remedies are available for victims of workplace harassment?
Victims of workplace harassment can seek various remedies depending on the specifics of their case. These remedies may include but are not limited to reinstatement to your job, compensation for lost wages, and damages for emotional distress. In some cases, legal action can lead to policy changes within a company, helping to ensure a safer and more respectful work environment for all employees.
How can Cleveland Lehner Cassidy help if I am experiencing workplace harassment?
At Cleveland Lehner Cassidy, our Indianapolis employment law attorneys are deeply committed to advocating for employees who have faced harassment in workplaces throughout Indiana. We can help by evaluating your case, advising you on your legal options, representing you in dealings with your employer or in formal legal proceedings, and working to secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Our goal is to ensure that your rights are protected and that you can work in an environment free from harassment.
Contact Our Indiana Workplace Harassment Attorneys For A Free Case Evaluation
If you believe you are a victim of workplace harassment, or if you have any questions about your rights and options, please do not hesitate to contact Cleveland Lehner Cassidy in Indianapolis. Our skilled team is here to help you navigate this challenging time and achieve the best possible outcome. For a free case evaluation, please call 317-953-2600 or complete our contact form. Our employment law attorneys represent clients throughout Indiana.