Workplace Harassment Lawyers Protecting Your Rights In West Chester 

When your workplace feels unsafe or hostile due to harassment, it can make every day a struggle. You might be experiencing a pattern of demeaning comments and inappropriate advances. You may be experiencing discriminatory actions that leave you questioning your professional standing and worth. Recognizing these behaviors is the first step. Knowing you have legal rights and options is the next step. 

Bellwoar Kelly, LLP, is committed to providing strong, client-focused legal support to individuals facing workplace harassment in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Our workplace harassment lawyers are seasoned trial attorneys and former prosecutors who bring decades of combined legal experience to every case. We have the knowledge and aggressive advocacy necessary to fight for your rights to a safe workplace.

Understanding Illegal Workplace Harassment In Pennsylvania

Workplace harassment can be more than simply unwanted behavior. It can be a form of illegal employment discrimination under both federal laws and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA). Harassment becomes illegal when it involves unwelcome conduct based on a protected characteristic, such as:

• Race, color or national origin
• Religion
• Sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity and pregnancy)
• Age (40 or older)
• Disability
• Ancestry
• Use of a guide or service animal for a disability

The conduct must be sufficiently severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile or abusive work environment, or be made a condition of employment. This illegal conduct can manifest in various ways, including:

• Offensive jokes, slurs, epithets or demeaning remarks
• Assaults, threats or unwanted touching
• Ridicule, mockery or behaviors meant to scare or belittle
• Offensive objects, pictures or gestures
• Unwanted sexual advances, inappropriate comments or requests for favors

Employers in Pennsylvania have a responsibility to prevent these actions. They must establish clear anti-harassment policies and conduct thorough investigations when complaints arise. Failing to do so is a violation of their legal obligations and can lead to significant liability. If you have experienced or are experiencing any of the above, our workplace harassment lawyers will assess your situation and guide you through your potential options.

Reporting Workplace Harassment

If you are experiencing harassment in the workplace, it is crucial to address the situation promptly. Firstly, if you feel safe and capable of doing so, directly inform the person committing the acts that their behavior is unwelcome and must cease. Then, consider reporting the incident to your employer or management as soon as possible. Follow your company’s established anti-harassment policy when raising the issue.

Doing so can provide key documentation in case you decide to take legal action, which may become necessary if the harassment persists or if your employer fails to take measures to stop it. This is especially true if the harassment escalated into negative employment actions, such as getting fired or demoted.

When To Take Legal Action

Before you can file a case in court, you must file a formal Charge of Discrimination with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) or the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). These agencies will investigate. They may then offer mediation or issue a “Right-to-Sue Letter.” This letter is your authorization to file a lawsuit.

If you receive an EEOC Right-to-Sue Letter, you generally have 90 days to file your federal lawsuit. If the PHRC dismisses your complaint, you typically have two years to file in state court. These deadlines are strict and taking your case to court can be a complex process. Our attorneys will guide you through every step, from complaint filing to settlement negotiations. We are also prepared to represent you in court, should litigation become necessary. 

Let Our Workplace Harassment Lawyers Stand With You

Unsure about your next steps regarding workplace harassment? Understanding your legal options is crucial. Learn more about how our aggressive advocacy can benefit your case. Schedule a consultation with Bellwoar Kelly, LLP, today. Call 610-314-7066 or fill out our contact form to get started.