Cleveland Sexual Harassment Attorneys

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and Ohio Revised Code § 4112. These laws protect all employees regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.

What Is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. It falls into two primary categories:

• Hostile work environment: Conduct of a sexual nature that is severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile, or abusive working environment
• Quid pro quo: When submission to or rejection of sexual advances affects employment decisions – promotions, assignments, continued employment

What Employers Are Required to Do

Employers are legally responsible for preventing and addressing sexual harassment in the workplace. When an employer knew or should have known about harassment and failed to take prompt corrective action, they can be held liable. Supervisory harassment can trigger employer liability even without prior notice.

Retaliation Is Also Unlawful

Reporting sexual harassment is protected conduct. Retaliation against an employee who reports harassment – or who participates in an investigation – is independently unlawful under Title VII and Ohio law.

Contact Wade Mapley, LLC

Sexual harassment cases require careful documentation and prompt action. Contact us online or call 216-329-3116 for a free consultation. We will assess your situation directly and tell you what your options are.