Denver Sexual Harassment Lawyer
Our Denver injury attorneys at Bryan & Terrill Law, PLLC are tough advocates for victims of sexual harassment. We understand the shame, embarrassment, and violation you may feel, and we want to help you seek justice for these heinous actions. Call our Denver sexual harassment lawyers today for a free consultation if you are being subjected to sexual harassment at work. Despite numerous laws and regulations against it, sexual harassment at the workplace is nonetheless a serious issue. Fortunately, workers who are being sexually harassed have rights and protections under the law.
Why Choose Bryan & Terrill to Represent You?
- We have considerable experience handling sexual harassment cases in Denver.
- We have extensive trial experience in both state and federal court.
- We care deeply about our clients and are invested in handling our cases from start to finish.
Why Do You Need a Sexual Harassment Lawyer?
State and federal law provide protections against sexual harassment. However, certain procedures must be followed in the correct sequence before you can recover damages for sexual harassment. You must first follow your employer’s procedures, then file an administrative charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and be issued a “right to sue” letter before you can bring your case to court. If you have been a victim of a more serious sex crime, contact our Denver sexual assault lawyers today.
Sexual Harassment Law in Colorado
Sexual harassment is illegal in Colorado. Workers are protected by both state and federal laws:
- Colorado Revised Statutes 24-34-402. Discriminatory or Unfair Employment Practices prohibits sexual harassment. This state law protects men and women alike from sexual harassment and provides protection from harassment for sexual orientation or transgender status.
- Title VII of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits all forms of sex discrimination, including sexual harassment. It prohibits gender identity discrimination and harassment of gay, lesbian, or bisexual persons.
What Remedies Are Available to Sexual Harassment Victims in Colorado?
Employees in Colorado may recover substantial damages in a civil lawsuit for sexual harassment in the workplace. These damages may include:
- Lost wages and benefits
- Emotional distress
- Punitive damages (designed to punish the defendant)
An employee who was terminated may win the right to be reinstated. A current employee may obtain an injunction to stop sexual harassment. An employee who wins his or her case may also recover attorney fees and court costs.
Retaliation is Prohibited by Law
Employers are prohibited under the law from retaliating against employees for complaining about sexual harassment or participating in litigation or investigation of another employee’s sexual harassment claim. Retaliation can be subtle, or it may take the form of:
- Discharge
- Demotion
- Disciplinary action
- Loss of promotion opportunities
What Is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment is a type of sex discrimination. It involves unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other behavior that creates a hostile work environment. Both women and men can become victims of sexual harassment.
Types of Workplace Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment in the workplace occurs in two primary forms:
- Quid pro quo: This type of sexual harassment involves offering employment opportunities for sexual favors, or threatening employment consequences if the employee fails to perform a sexual favor.
- Hostile work environment: Unwanted sexual touching or gestures, unwelcome sexual advances or propositions, sexual jokes, pictures, derogatory comments, or gender discrimination can contribute to a hostile work environment.
Connect with Bryan & Terrill Law, PLLC
Our knowledgeable employee rights attorneys at Bryan & Terrill Law, PLLC can help you navigate the process, provide sound legal counsel, negotiate skillfully on your behalf, and aggressively protect your rights in court. If you have been a victim of sexual harassment, our sexual harassment lawyers are committed to recovering the compensation you deserve and achieving a favorable outcome in your case.