The experience of sexual harassment can be traumatic. It can be difficult to know where to go and what you should expect from your employer when coming forward with reports of sexual harassment. Sometimes, a survivor may take some time before coming forward with accusations. It’s important to know what the statute of limitations is so that you do not wait too long before reporting harassment.
Prevention in the Workplace
Your employer is responsible for taking measures to ensure that sexual harassment does not occur in the workplace. In situations where an employer does not take the appropriate steps, they may be held responsible for any harassment that has taken place. An employer should ensure that they have specific policies surrounding sexual harassment in place. This should include an action plan for how they will address reports of sexual harassment for all involved parties. Having policies, procedures, and trainings in place can help employers respond appropriately when someone comes forward with complaints of sexual harassment.
What Should I Expect From My Employer?
It can be challenging to come forward, which is why the response from your employer is so important. Your employer has an obligation to respond appropriately by investigating your complaint. Your employer should be sure to do the following when faced with sexual harassment reports:
- Ensure that the company’s policy is posted for employees to see.
- Employers should provide a number of ways for employees to file complaints by allowing them to make reports to supervisors, human resource managers, or directors.
- Your employer should respond to employees with compassion and ensure that there will be no retaliation against the employee. They should also ask that you keep them informed of any retaliation or harassment.
- You should expect your employer to listen to your account of what has happened.
- Employers should follow up with the accused.
- Your employer should conduct an investigation into the complaint.
- Assure you that no further harassment will occur.
When an employee responds appropriately, it can help you feel at ease during the process. In some situations, obtaining an attorney to help you negotiate this process can be helpful.
Statute of Limitations
Coming forward to report sexual harassment can be challenging. Despite this, there is a limited time to do so. There are timeframes that are important to adhere to. Although the statue can vary based on the state where you reside. In most cases, sexual harassment can be a recurring issue. The statute of limitations to file a complaint with the EEOC begins upon the last occurrence of harassment. A victim of sexual harassment has 180 days to file a complaint with the EEOC. Although in some situations this may be extended up to 300 days. It will be important to not waste any time in contacting an attorney. They can help ensure that your complaint is filed correctly and within the appropriate timeframes.
Reporting sexual harassment can be challenging, especially if you are unsure of how your employer will respond. If you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace and are not receiving an appropriate response from your employer, it may be in your best interest to contact a lawyer, like a disability discrimination lawyer Washington DC from Eric Siegel Law.
