Georgia Sexual Harassment Lawyers

Sexual harassment is illegal sex discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This conduct includes unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors. It also covers physical or verbal sexual behavior that impact your job. At The Kirby G. Smith Law Firm, LLC, our boutique firm provides the direct advice you need to address these sexual harassment issues. We speak with honesty and precision.

Every worker in Georgia deserves a workplace built on respect. You might be a high-earning corporate executive or an hourly worker. Either way, our law firm explains your legal options. We use a unique pricing structure to help you. This includes flat fees and contingency fees starting at 30%. This model helps us provide an advocate for every client.

Workplace harassment often leaves employees feeling isolated and unsure of their next move. In Georgia, the law provides specific protections to ensure your career does not suffer because of someone else’s misconduct. Our attorneys focus on local and federal statutes to hold employers accountable when they fail to maintain a professional environment. We investigate the facts of your situation to build a strong foundation for your claim. Contact us online now to request your free initial consultation.

Understanding Sexual Harassment In the Workplace

Federal law prohibits two main types of sexual harassment. Knowing these categories helps you identify if a violation occurred:

• Quid pro quo: This happens when a manager links job benefits to sexual favors. These benefits might include a raise, a promotion, or keeping your job.
• Hostile work environment: This occurs when unwelcome conduct is frequent or severe. It creates an intimidating office. This can include slurs, offensive jokes, or physical touching that prevents you from doing your work.

The harasser does not have to be your boss. A co-worker or a manager from another department could harass you. Even a client or customer might be the perpetrator. Harassment does not always have to be sexual in nature. It can also include offensive remarks about a person’s sex in general.

Behaviors That Count As Harassment

Harassment can be physical, verbal or visual. Isolated incidents or simple teasing might not meet the legal bar. However, federal standards prohibit pervasive patterns of behavior. Examples of prohibited behavior include:

• Unwanted touching or “accidental” brushing against your body
• Repeated leering or suggestive gestures
• Sending explicit texts, emails, or social media messages
• Making graphic comments about your body or clothing
• Showing pornographic images or cartoons in the office
• Persisting with romantic advances after you say no

When these behaviors interfere with your productivity or create an abusive atmosphere, they cross the line into illegal territory.

Answers To Common Sexual Harassment Questions

Navigating the legal process requires clear information regarding your rights and the timelines involved in filing a claim. To ensure you understand the basics, we have answered some frequently asked questions below.

What behaviors count as sexual harassment?

Illegal behavior includes unwelcome sexual advances and requests for favors. It also covers verbal or physical conduct that creates a hostile environment. This ranges from explicit jokes to inappropriate touching.

Does harassment have to be repeated?

A single, severe incident like sexual assault can constitute harassment. However, most cases involve a pattern of behavior. This pattern must be “severe or pervasive.” The law usually does not prohibit simple teasing or minor offhand comments.

How long do I have to file a sexual harassment claim?

Private-sector employees in Georgia generally have 180 days to file a charge. You must file this with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). These deadlines are strict. If you miss them, you may lose your right to sue. Contact an attorney quickly to stay within these limits.

Victims of harassment often fear retaliation from their employers. However, the law prohibits companies from firing, demoting, or punishing you for reporting harassment in good faith. We help you document the abuse and your employer’s response to ensure you have a clear record for the EEOC. Protecting your livelihood is our priority while we pursue the compensation you deserve.

If you believe someone targeted you sexually because of your gender identity or sexual orientation, please visit our gender discrimination page.

End Workplace Harassment Today

At The Kirby G. Smith Law Firm, LLC, we believe in “Helping Those Who Make America Work” by fighting workplace harassment. You deserve a safe place to work. Call our office at 770-892-6019 for a free, confidential talk about your case. You can also reach us through our contact form.