Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile or offensive work environment. Regrettably, sexual harassment is an all-too-common reality for many people in the workplace. It manifests inself in many different ways. Sexual harassment in the workplace can be subtle or overt, physical or verbal, occasional, or pervasive. Regardless of how it comes up, sexual harassment is not only wrong but also illegal. Victims of sexual harassment sometimes do not know their rights, or how to go about enforcing their rights. The help of an experienced sexual harassment attorney can go a long way.
An experienced sexual harassment attorney can help navigate the nuanced, and sometimes complex processes of sexual harassment litigation. He or she will likely be uniquely equipped to handle a sexual harassment case. While there are many ways to find a lawyer, there are some important things to remember when seeking a lawyer to handle a sexual harassment case. Here are some of the things you should look for:
Look for Experience
If you are looking to find a lawyer to prosecute your sexual harassment case, one of the very first things you should look for experience. Employment law is nuanced, detailed, and complex. It is therefore critically important for your lawyer to have a solid understanding of the applicable law. Some lawyers like to handle all sorts of cases, without really putting too much focus on any particular practice area. However, a lawyer that routinely handles sexual harassment cases, or employment cases in general will likely be far more effective than a proverbial jack of all trades who may come across an employment case every once in a while. Because sexual harassment cases are very nuanced, a sexual harassment attorney with substantial experience in this field will likely be more effective, than one without experience. When evaluating potential candidates to hire ask them how many sexual harassment cases they have handled, and how each of those cases concluded. While the lawyer may not be at liberty to name names, or discuss certain specifics, you should get a sense of his or her level of experience.
Look for Empathy
Because of their natural sexual harassment cases often involve sensitive topics. It is oftentimes difficult for the victim of sexual harassment to even mention what happened, much less discuss it in detail. Because you will work with your sexual harassment attorney very closely and share uncomfortable details about what you endured, you should look for a lawyer who is empathetic and considerate. When you meet with a lawyer for the first time, pay attention to how you are treated during your initial consultation, and make sure that you have the comfort level needed to openly discuss topics and subjects which are not always easy to talk about.
Consider The Lawyer’s Reputation
Before hiring a sexual harassment attorney, one should find and consider that lawyer’s ratings, reviews, and reputation. This may include reviewing a lawyer’s peer review ratings, client testimonials, awards, and/or other recognitions.
Conclusion
We hope that these tips will help you find the right sexual harassment attorney for your case.
The Akopyan Law Firm prides itself on offering compassionate and quality representation for all of its clients. Our firm routinely handles sexual harassment cases. Victims of sexual harassment in the workplace are welcomed to contact us for a complimentary case evaluation. Click here to learn more.