Every employee deserves a safe and respectful work environment. Unfortunately, sexual harassment remains a pervasive issue in many New Jersey workplaces. Among the most common—and often overlooked—forms of harassment are overt or suggestive sexual comments. These comments can contribute to a hostile work environment and cause emotional harm to those on the receiving end. At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we are passionate about helping victims of workplace harassment assert their rights and hold wrongdoers accountable.
Understanding Sexual Harassment in New Jersey
Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD), employees are protected from this kind of conduct in the workplace. Harassment can come from a supervisor, coworker, client, or even a non-employee.
While some forms of harassment are overt—such as touching or direct propositions—others are more subtle, like lewd jokes, inappropriate comments, or suggestive remarks. No matter the form, the law recognizes your right to a harassment-free workplace.
What Constitutes an Inappropriate Comment?
Examples of overt or suggestive sexual comments that may constitute harassment include:
- Remarks about someone’s appearance or body in a sexual way
- Sexual jokes or innuendos
- Comments about someone’s sex life or preferences
- Unsolicited comments about clothing that are sexual in nature
- Repeated flirtation or romantic advances after being told to stop
It is important to remember that the “intent” of the harasser does not excuse the behavior. If the conduct is unwelcome and affects the work environment, it can be grounds for a legal claim.
The Impact of Harassment on Victims
Inappropriate sexual comments can create a toxic workplace, affecting not only the targeted individual but also overall morale. Victims often suffer in silence out of fear of retaliation or disbelief. However, the psychological toll—including anxiety, stress, and loss of job satisfaction—can be immense. This is why it’s critical to seek help as soon as possible.
What to Do If You’re Being Harassed
If you’re experiencing sexual harassment at work, take the following steps:
- Document the behavior: Keep a written log of the comments, dates, times, and witnesses.
- Report the issue internally: Notify your supervisor or HR department, following your company’s reporting procedure.
- Contact an attorney: If internal reporting doesn’t stop the harassment or leads to retaliation, seek legal counsel immediately.
Retaliation for reporting harassment is also illegal. If you’ve been demoted, fired, or otherwise punished for coming forward, you may have additional legal claims.
Your Legal Options
Victims of sexual harassment may be entitled to compensation for emotional distress, lost wages, and in some cases, punitive damages. Legal action can also result in changes to company policy, helping to protect others from similar harm.
At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we take these cases seriously. We investigate thoroughly, advocate aggressively, and treat every client with the dignity they deserve.
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Contact NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC Today
If you’ve been subjected to inappropriate sexual comments or any other form of workplace harassment, contact us for a confidential consultation. You have legal rights, and we are here to protect them.
Contact Information:
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland, NJ 07068
(973) 358-7027
