How Do You Prove Sexual Harassment on a Jobsite in Maryland?

Proving sexual harassment on a jobsite involves preserving as much information and evidence as possible. If you are a victim, you should keep any relevant communications and write down as many details as you can. You should also hire a Maryland sexual harassment lawyer promptly. Once you hire a lawyer to represent you, your lawyer will be able to take all necessary steps to protect your legal rights.

Sexual harassment is illegal in all workplaces throughout Maryland. This includes construction sites and other job sites. If you are a victim of sexual harassment, you are entitled to just compensation, and you should hire a lawyer to handle your claim on your behalf.

As a victim of sexual harassment, it is up to you to prove what happened. Your employer will most likely deny your allegations, and it will probably fight to avoid paying the compensation you deserve. An experienced Maryland sexual harassment lawyer can help, and hiring promptly is one of the most important steps you can take to maximize your chances of holding your employer accountable.

What Qualifies as “Sexual Harassment” on a Jobsite in Maryland?

From a legal perspective, all sexual harassment cases fall into one of two categories. Employees in Maryland can file sexual harassment claims based on either: (i) a hostile work environment; or, (ii) a quid pro quo.

• Hostile Work Environment – A hostile work environment exists if you feel threatened or uncomfortable at work, or if the situation you are facing is so difficult that you do not feel comfortable going to work at all. Inappropriate comments, inappropriate physical contact, leering, staring, and other similar types of behaviors can warrant hostile work environment claims under state or federal law.
• Quid Pro Quo – Quid pro quo means “this for that.” If your supervisor has threatened to fire you or offered a job opportunity on the condition that you engage in sexual conduct, this is a clear form of sexual harassment. This is true whether your supervisor expressly requested a sexual favor or your supervisor implied that a sexual favor was necessary.

Sexual harassment can involve conduct by supervisors and coworkers of the same sex or the opposite sex, and it can be physical, verbal, or visual in nature. If you have questions about your legal rights under any circumstances, we strongly encourage you to speak with a lawyer who can help you make informed decisions about your next steps.

How Do You Prove Sexual Harassment on a Jobsite?

Proving sexual harassment on a jobsite is a multi-step process. While the process takes time, doing what it takes to assert your legal rights can be well worth it in the end. Broadly speaking, proving that you are a victim of sexual harassment involves:

1. Keeping Any Relevant Communications

If you have text messages, direct messages, formal letters or any other communications that are relevant to your sexual harassment claim, you should keep these to give to your lawyer.

2. Taking Detailed Notes

You should also take detailed notes. It will be important for you to share as many details with your lawyer as possible.

3. Filing a Complaint with the EEOC or MCCR

In most cases, proving sexual harassment involves filing a complaint with either the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR).

4. Obtaining Records from Your Employer

If necessary, once you file your complaint, your lawyer can seek to obtain any relevant documentation from your employer.

5. Going Through the EEOC or MCCR Resolution Process

After filing your complaint, you will need to go through the EEOC or MCCR resolution process. If you hire a Maryland sexual harassment lawyer, your lawyer will represent you every step of the way.

Employees in Maryland can also take their sexual harassment claims to court when necessary. If you need to go to court to hold your employer accountable, your lawyer can use their experience to fight for the justice you deserve.

FAQs: Your Rights as a Victim of Sexual Harassment in Maryland

How do I know if I have a claim for sexual harassment?

Determining if you have legal grounds to pursue a sexual harassment claim requires a thorough analysis of the specific facts of your case. An experienced Maryland sexual harassment lawyer can assess your case and determine if legal action is warranted.

What compensation is available to victims of sexual harassment in Maryland?

Victims of sexual harassment in Maryland are entitled to compensation for their financial losses (i.e., loss of income and benefits) as well as compensation for their trauma and emotional distress. Victims can also seek to recover their attorneys’ fees and costs, and punitive damages are available in some cases.

Can a lawyer help me if I experienced sexual harassment on a jobsite in Maryland?

Yes, if you experienced sexual harassment on a jobsite in Maryland, a lawyer can help you fight for the justice you deserve. If you have questions about your legal rights, we strongly recommend speaking with a lawyer as soon as possible.

What Our Maryland Sexual Harassment Lawyers Can Do to Help

At The Law Firm of J.W. Stafford, LLC, we have decades of experience fighting for sexual harassment victims and holding employers across Maryland accountable. From answering your questions to taking legal action on your behalf, we can help you every step of the way. With offices in Columbia, we represent current and former employees statewide.

Speak with a Maryland Sexual Harassment Lawyer in Confidence

If you are (or believe you may be) a victim of sexual harassment on a jobsite in Maryland, we strongly encourage you to get in touch. To discuss your legal rights with an experienced Maryland sexual harassment lawyer in confidence as soon as possible, call 410-514-6099 or tell us how we can contact you online today.