Attorneys Fighting Against Sexual Assault In The Workplace
Sexual assault in the workplace is a traumatic life event that should never happen to anyone. But it does. If you are sexually assaulted at work, Halunen Law has the experience to help you get justice. You do not have to suffer in silence, and you have the right to protect yourself and your job while holding your aggressor accountable.
Halunen Law attorneys have advised and represented many employees who have been the victims of workplace sexual assault. Some reported what happened immediately; some did not. We understand that the trauma of sexual assault affects each individual differently and there is no “right” or “wrong” way to react to a work-related sexual assault. We also know that getting support can make a significant difference in how a person gets through the trauma. Halunen Law employment attorneys are skilled and experienced in understanding what you are facing and can be your advocate in challenging workplace-related sexual crimes.
What Constitutes Sexual Assault In The Workplace?
Sexual assault is a form of sexual harassment and violates a person’s right to work in an environment that is safe and free of any unwanted sexual contact.
Sexual assault can take many forms. We have advised and represented many employees who have experienced sexual assault, which can include:
- Nonconsensual sexual contact
- Unwanted sexual advances or touching
- Lewd exhibition of genitals
- Intentional removal or attempted removal of clothing
- Groping
- Rape
While many people are familiar with sexual assault perpetrated by male bosses against female subordinates, sexual assault can occur between all combinations of gender and can happen between colleagues and co-workers in all types of relationships.
Another type of sexual assault may occur in what we call quid pro quo harassment – meaning that offers of promotion or favorable treatment are conditioned on sexual acts.
What About Out-Of-Office Conduct?
Sexual assault is not limited to the actual workplace. Besides your workplace, employment-related sexual assault can occur in other environments. Employees are also vulnerable during work-related events. In fact, an employee may be at a higher risk of assault when interacting with coworkers and managers outside the main work environment. This includes settings such as:
- Conferences
- Business trips
- Seminars
- During travel
- Employer-sponsored events
The lack of monitoring, potentially casual environment, types of activities (e.g. drinking, dancing), and easier access to victims combine to make these common times for sexual assaults to occur.
Learn more about illegal actions at company-related events.
How Am I Protected?
Minnesota state and federal laws protect employees against sexual harassment, which includes sexual assault and related wrongful termination or retaliation. If you’ve been sexually assaulted in the workplace or in another employment-related setting, it’s important to understand what rights you have, making it particularly important to contact a sexual assault lawyer.
If you are seeking to report sexual assault related to your work, our experienced employment law attorneys can help you navigate the process with the best chance of avoiding negative consequences.
What If My Employer Retaliates Against Me?
Employees who experience sexual assault in the workplace may find their reports are ignored or discounted. They may find themselves a target for retaliation, which can include wrongful termination.
Regrettably, it is not uncommon in these situations to experience retaliation for making a report, particularly if the perpetrator of the assault is in a high-level position. However, under these circumstances, termination or other types of retaliation likely puts the employer in direct violation of state and federal laws that protect against not only sexual misconduct but wrongful termination.
Halunen Law Will Fight For You.
Sexual assault is a traumatic experience that has a tremendous emotional and physical toll on victims. Many people who experience sexual assault may feel angry or disgusted, but they may also feel alone, afraid, and anxious about the situation. Halunen Law employment attorneys are skilled and experienced in understanding what you are facing and can be your advocate in challenging workplace-related sexual crimes.
