Your job isn’t a place where you should experience harassment, but unfortunately, it can happen. If you’ve already approached your employer with this issue, and nothing is improving, you may consider contacting an attorney. A lawyer’s role in workplace harassment is so much more than suing your employer. They can also provide legal counsel should you need assistance other than taking it to court.
Legal Counsel
When you approach an attorney, you’re seeking legal counsel. You need help in interpreting laws to help you determine whether your rights are being violated. A common reason people approach an attorney is to assist them in filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This government office acts as a mediator between an employer and an employee during disputes, especially concerning workplace harassment. Unfortunately, the EEOC isn't legally required to force your employer to give you a fair deal regarding damages—especially if you’ve lost pay from the harassment. In fact, there may arise a situation where the EEOC and your interests clash, meaning you’re at the mercy of the mediator.
This situation is when an attorney can step in. Before you file a claim with the EEOC, you can approach a legal professional to get advice on your case. Not only do lawyers advise you, but they can also help you build a case against your employer in terms of witness statements and documents you may need. The evidence is what keeps the dispute from being a "he-said-she-said" situation. Additionally, some people suggest that you’re taken more seriously by your employer if you have legal counsel on matters of harassment.
Legal Case
You want someone to look out for your interests. While the EEOC looks out for the United States, a lawyer knows all local and federal laws that pertain to your case. They are also willing to do research to determine if there has been a precedent, making your case much easier to win.
If you do choose to go to court, having an attorney who can assist you through evidence gathering makes court much easier. Not only do you have all of the testimonies, documents, and evidence your legal professional needs to win, but you also have someone who is already well versed in your case. A proper attorney can move forward with a case to recover any damages you’ve experienced during your workplace harassment.
Why leave your case up to the EEOC that has no perspective on your interests? An attorney ensures that you get what you deserve. Plus, the defendant will likely have their own lawyers, so it’s only fair that you have one in your corner as well.
