Sexual harassment in the workplace continues to be a serious issue that affects employees across industries. While awareness has grown in recent years, many victims still feel isolated, intimidated, or unsure about their legal options. If you live or work in Woodbridge, NJ, understanding your rights is the first step in reclaiming control and seeking justice.
What Constitutes Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment is more than just inappropriate jokes or gestures. It is legally defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature. These behaviors can create a hostile, intimidating, or offensive work environment, which is a violation of both state and federal laws.
Examples of sexual harassment include:
- Unwanted touching or physical contact
- Sexual comments, jokes, or slurs
- Repeated requests for dates or romantic favors
- Sharing sexually explicit images or emails
- Quid pro quo harassment—offering benefits in exchange for sexual favors
Harassment does not need to come from a supervisor. It can originate from coworkers, clients, or even non-employees who interact with staff.
Your Legal Protections in New Jersey
Both federal law (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964) and the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) protect employees from sexual harassment. These laws cover full-time, part-time, temporary, and even some independent contractors. In Woodbridge, employees can file complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights—but often, pursuing action with an experienced employment attorney yields stronger results and faster resolutions.
What to Do If You’re Being Harassed
If you’re experiencing harassment, it’s important to:
- Document everything – dates, times, witnesses, and incidents.
- Report the behavior to your HR department or direct supervisor.
- Avoid retaliation by continuing to perform your job duties professionally.
- Contact an employment lawyer to discuss your legal rights and options.
Retaliation for reporting harassment is also illegal, and your attorney can protect you from further mistreatment as the case progresses.
Why Legal Support Makes a Difference
Taking on a company by yourself can be daunting. That’s why partnering with skilled employment lawyers is essential. Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys are fierce advocates for workers who have experienced harassment, discrimination, or retaliation in Woodbridge and throughout New Jersey.
Their team has successfully won substantial settlements and verdicts for clients, helping them recover financially and emotionally. They will evaluate your case, help you understand your legal options, and fight to protect your rights with confidence and care.
Contact Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Today
You don’t have to stay silent or endure mistreatment. If you’re facing sexual harassment at work in Woodbridge, NJ, take the first step toward justice and healing today.
New Jersey Office
71 Maple Ave
Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924
New York Office
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1830
New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781
