At Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard, we know how damaging sexual harassment in the workplace can be. No one should have to endure inappropriate conduct, a hostile work environment, or retaliation for standing up against harassment.
As trusted Worcester sexual harassment lawyers, we are committed to protecting employees and holding employers accountable.
Since opening our firm in 2022, we have helped workers throughout Worcester, MA, fight for their rights under state and federal employment laws.
If you have experienced unwanted sexual advances, inappropriate comments, or retaliation after reporting misconduct, you don’t have to navigate the situation alone.
A Worcester harassment and hostile work environment lawyer from our team can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you pursue justice.
What Counts as Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
Sexual harassment can take many forms, and we have seen firsthand how it can impact careers and personal well-being. Legally, harassment falls into two main categories:
- Quid pro quo harassment: This happens when a manager or employer demands sexual favors in exchange for workplace benefits, such as promotions or salary increases, or threatens negative consequences for refusing.
- Hostile work environment: A workplace becomes hostile when unwelcome sexual behavior—such as repeated inappropriate comments, sexual advances, or explicit messages—creates an offensive or intimidating atmosphere.
Both types of harassment are illegal under Massachusetts and federal laws. If you’re facing these issues, our Worcester labor and employment lawyers can help you take legal action.
For a free legal consultation with a sexual harassment lawyer serving Worcester, call (860) 999-9394
Your Legal Rights as an Employee in Worcester, MA
Massachusetts law protects workers from sexual harassment through multiple statutes, including:
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act: This federal law prohibits workplace discrimination, including sexual harassment, in companies with 15 or more employees.
- Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 151B: This state law provides additional protections for workers in businesses with six or more employees.
- The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD): Employees can file complaints with MCAD, which investigates workplace harassment cases and enforces state labor laws.
As a sexual harassment lawyer in Worcester, MA, we guide clients through filing complaints with MCAD or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and pursuing legal claims when necessary.
Worcester Sexual Harassment Lawyer Near Me (860) 999-9394
How to Help Your Worcester Sexual Harassment Lawyer Prove Your Claim
We understand that proving workplace harassment can feel overwhelming. However, gathering the right evidence can strengthen your case.
- Written records: Save any emails, text messages, or written communications related to the harassment.
- Witness statements: If coworkers have observed inappropriate behavior, their testimony can support your claim.
- Employment records: Changes in job responsibilities, pay reductions, or sudden terminations after reporting harassment may indicate retaliation.
- Company policies: Reviewing your employer’s sexual harassment policy can determine whether they followed proper procedures.
If you are unsure how to document your experiences, our team of Worcester sexual harassment attorneys can help you compile and organize the necessary evidence.
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The Impact of Workplace Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment doesn’t just affect an employee’s work environment—it can have lasting professional, financial, and emotional consequences. Many victims of workplace harassment find it difficult to advance in their careers due to retaliation or the stress of working in a hostile environment.
Others experience job loss, financial instability, or difficulty finding new employment after being forced out of a position.
The emotional toll can also be significant, leading to anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress. At our firm, we recognize that workplace harassment affects more than just an employee’s job.
That’s why we take a comprehensive approach to every case, advocating for compensation that covers lost wages, emotional distress, and any long-term career impact.
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Filing a Sexual Harassment Complaint in Massachusetts
If you are experiencing workplace harassment, you have options for taking action. The complaint process typically involves the following steps:
- Internal reporting: Most companies require employees to report harassment to human resources or management first.
- Filing with MCAD or EEOC: If the employer fails to act, employees can file a formal complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) or the EEOC.
- Pursuing legal action: If the case is not resolved, employees may proceed with a lawsuit with the help of a sexual harassment attorney in Worcester, MA.
Massachusetts law sets a 300–day deadline for filing a claim with MCAD, so acting quickly is crucial.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
Victims of sexual harassment may be entitled to financial compensation. This can include lost wages if harassment led to job loss or demotion, emotional distress damages for anxiety or depression caused by harassment, and in some cases, punitive damages against employers who engaged in egregious misconduct.
Each situation is unique, and we work closely with our clients to ensure they pursue the full compensation they are entitled to under the law. If you are unsure what damages may apply in your case, we can assess your claim and help you understand your options.
How Our Law Firm Can Help
At Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard, we understand how difficult it can be to stand up against workplace harassment. Every employee has the right to work in a safe, respectful environment, and our firm is dedicated to protecting those rights.
Whether you are currently facing harassment or dealing with retaliation for reporting misconduct, we are here to guide you through the legal process.
Our team works tirelessly to hold employers accountable, whether that means filing complaints, negotiating settlements, or pursuing litigation. We take pride in providing compassionate, results-driven legal representation for workers in Worcester, MA.
If you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, you do not have to handle it alone. We are committed to ensuring that our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you move forward.
Call or text (860) 999-9394 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form