If You’ve Been Sexually Harassed

If you’re a South Carolina resident and have been the victim of unwanted sexual advances, you’re probably dealing with feelings of confusion, resentment and even fear. Sexual harassment, which is defined as unwanted sexual conduct of a personal or environmental nature, is against federal and South Carolina law. As a victim of sexual harassment, you have the right to demand that this form of discrimination stop; you may also have the right to ask for restitution or compensation for your emotional injuries.

There are two types of sexual harassment: quid pro quo and environmental. Quid pro quo harassment occurs when an employer or coworker makes you feel as if you need to submit to unwanted sexual advances in order to advance in the workplace or do your job. Whether you submit to the behavior or not, quid pro quo harassment is against the law. Environmental harassment occurs when you are forced to work in an environment that is abusive, intimidating, threatening or otherwise abusive. For example, constant exposure to unwanted pornography, sexual jokes or gestures constitutes environmental harassment.

If you feel you are working in an environment with sexual harassment, make sure you let both the perpetrator and your supervisor know that you are uncomfortable with the sexual advances and that you would like them to stop. Make sure to document your claim as fully as possible; keep a log of every incident’s time, place and perpetrator. You are protected by South Carolina and federal laws that state an employer cannot retaliate against you for filing a sexual harassment complaint. Make sure you have a copy of your employer’s sexual harassment policy and that you go through company channels when reporting your harassment.

If you feel your rights have been violated, it may be time to seek out an experienced sexual harassment attorney. The lawyers at Louthian Law Firm have years of experience representing the victims of sexual harassment in South Carolina and a broad depth of knowledge of state and federal law to draw upon as they shepherd your case through court. If you feel nervous about coming forward, don’t fear – Louthian’s sexual harassment lawyers are supportive, sensitive and will do everything they can to resolve your issue while keeping your privacy and personal rights intact.

If you've been sexually harassed, you have a number of options. You may file a complaint with your employer, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission, your labor union, or even pursue a civil or criminal lawsuit. Due to the complex issues surrounding South Carolina sexual harassment law, it's a good idea to seek competent legal counsel before you take your next step. Your South Carolina sexual harassment lawyer can help assess your potential claim, file it in state or federal court, and negotiate successful settlement or argue your case in court.

Good record-keeping, knowledge of your rights and supportive legal counsel can go a long way toward resolving your South Carolina sexual harassment lawsuit. Interested in a free, confidential consultation? Contact Louthian Law today for more information.

South Carolina Sexual Harassment Lawyer Disclaimer: The sexual harassment, sex discrimination, sexual abuse, or other legal personal injury information presented at this site should not be construed to be formal legal advice, nor the formation of a lawyer or attorney client relationship. Further communication with our attorneys through the website and email may not be considered as confidential or privileged. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Please contact a South Carolina sexual harassment lawyer at the Louthian Law Firm, P.A. for a consultation on your particular sexual harassment matter. This web site is not intended to solicit clients for matters outside of the state of South Carolina.