HOSTILE WORK ENVIRONMENT
There are numerous US and Ohio state laws that prohibit unlawful harassment on the basis of sex, race, disability, age, religion, and many other protected characteristics. Still, the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) reports that almost one-third of all charges it receives are based upon allegations of workplace harassment. While some complaints involve quid pro quo harassment, EEOC data indicates that the majority of these 90,000 harassment charges arise because the employer created a hostile work environment.
At Coffman Legal, LLC, our lawyers are dedicated to pursuing justice on behalf of employees who suffer when Ohio employers defy workplace harassment laws. We are ready to assist with your legal remedies, so please contact us to schedule a free case evaluation today. Our Canton hostile work environment attorneys can provide details, but a summary of the relevant legal concepts may also be helpful.
There are two forms of work-related harassment that are unlawful under employment laws, and hostile workplace environments are one of the most common. As an employee, you could have grounds to take legal action if: You were the subject of unwelcome conduct based upon race, religion, disability, sex, color, or other protected characteristic; The conduct was severe, pervasive, and so outrageous that it created an intolerable work environment; and The hostile work environment was so unbearable that any reasonable person would find it abusive and intimidating. In addition, there is a knowledge element involved with hostile work environment cases. Your employer is only liable if you can prove that the company knew about the misconduct and did nothing to stop it.
Your remedy for workplace harassment depends upon company size and other factors, since you may file a claim with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) or the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). State laws cover smaller employers, which is why it is preferable to go through the OCRC if necessary; plus, you are not required to exhaust your administrative remedies before filing a lawsuit in court, which IS necessary when you file a charge with the EEOC. Our Canton hostile work environment lawyers at Coffman Legal, LLC can assist with administrative remedies and settlement discussions, but we are prepared to take the next step with civil court. Our goal is to obtain the full amount of compensation you are allowed by law, which may include: Back pay, advance pay, and interest; Attorneys’ fees and court costs; Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering; and Many other damages.
If you have been the target of harassment and related misconduct that affects your ability to do your job, it is essential to reach out to our team at Coffman Legal, LLC for assistance. You can reach our firm at 614-949-1181 or visit our website to set up a complimentary consultation with a Canton hostile work environment lawyer. After we review your circumstances, we can explain your rights and what to expect through the legal process.