A woman sitting at her desk working on her computer when a male colleague puts his hand on hers without consent. If you've experienced sexual harassment while at work, our compassionate sexual harassment attorney in Kansas City knows how demeaning and damaging this can be.

Empowering the Voice of Victims

Facing sexual harassment at work is daunting and seeking the right legal counsel in Kansas City shouldn’t add to your stress. As dedicated Kansas City sexual harassment lawyer professionals at Holman Schiavone Law, LLC, we understand the courage it takes to stand up against injustice and are here to offer the focused legal support you need to navigate this challenge.

When you work with Holman Schiavone Law, LLC, you can trust that our team is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation. Our experienced Kansas City sexual harassment lawyers are dedicated to helping you through the complexities of your case with sensitivity and determination. We prioritize your well-being and work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected.

If you have faced sexual harassment at work and need legal assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Your voice deserves to be heard, and we are here to advocate for you. Contact Holman Schiavone Law, LLC by calling 816-399-5149, and take the first step toward justice. Our team is ready to support you through this challenging time.

Understanding Sexual Harassment in Kansas City Workplaces

Sexual harassment is considered a form of sex discrimination because it includes behaviors of a sexual nature like sexual comments, actions, or conduct that are hostile or abusive. This can include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.This type of behavior can create a hostile work environment for the individuals involved. It’s a sad reality that many Kansas City workers have to face every day. Common types of harassment encountered in our city’s workplaces include inappropriate language, actions, and unwanted advances. The primary considerations for victims include their personal safety and dignity, as well as the safety and dignity of others. It is paramount to find trusted sexual harassment lawyers to help protect their rights.

Grasping the necessity of legal action is vital when confronting such misconduct. By doing so, victims can not only secure justice for themselves but also contribute to creating a safer, more respectful work environment for others. So, let’s delve deeper into identifying harassment at work and understanding its impact on victims.

Sexual harassment, regardless of where it happens, is a serious matter. If you believe you have been the victim of sexual harassment at work, school, or in any other situation, it’s in your optimal interest to contact a Kansas City sexual harassment lawyer to discuss the details of your case and find a solution. All too often, sexual harassment claims go unpunished. Although it takes courage to come forward, our sexual harassment attorney in Kansas City at Holman Schiavone can help.

Identifying Harassment In the Workplace

Harassment can take many forms, and it is often more subtle than one might think. As sexual harassment continues to be a prevalent issue, it can range from:

  • being sexually harassed
  • unwanted sexual advances
  • inappropriate comments or jokes
  • threats
  • physical contact
  • sexual favors

All of these situations can be considered sexual harassment. Lawyers for sexual harassment can help you file a sexual harassment claim if you believe you have been sexually harassed in any of these ways. These behaviors can come from co-workers, management, and even non-employees such as clients or customers. Recognizing these behaviors as unacceptable breaches of personal boundaries and dignity is pivotal.

It is important to understand what sexual harassment is. Should you experience or observe such behaviors, addressing the individual responsible and communicating their actions’ discomfort is crucial. It’s also advisable to document any interactions related to the issue, which can be crucial in case of a sexual harassment lawsuit.

Should the harassment persist despite expressing your discomfort, consider escalating the matter to your employer’s human resources department.

Asking for Sexual Favors

One of the most egregious offenses is asking for sexual favors. A sexual favor is defined as a request for sex in exchange for something else. This most commonly occurs in a work environment. An employer may suggest that to keep your job, you have to perform some kind of sexual favor. This is gender-based harassment and a form of sex discrimination and is completely illegal.

A sexual favor is not limited to requesting sexual intercourse or other sexual acts. Asking someone to send sexual photos or to engage in sexting would also qualify. While these actions usually occur in the workplace, they can also happen in other contexts. For example, clients have been propositioned with sexual favors in exchange for free services. This is also illegal.

Unwelcome Sexual Advances

Sexual advances differ from favors in that they do not necessarily imply an exchange of any sort. Perhaps a superior or even a co-worker in the company has made comments of a sexual nature to you. Remarks about your body or propositions that imply an interest in sexual conduct are off-limits in the workplace.

Unwelcome sexual propositions become a serious offense when there is a pattern of conduct. A single suggestive remark should be reported to human resources immediately. If the pattern of conduct continues and your employer does nothing about it, there is cause to file a lawsuit against the company or individual involved.

Inappropriate Sexual Comments That Make You Feel Uncomfortable

Comments that are not directed at you specifically can still constitute sexual harassment under certain circumstances. For example, if a boss makes frequent sexual jokes about women, even if they aren’t targeted at any particular woman, then this may be considered a form of discrimination. Understandably, when superiors are involved, many victims are hesitant to report this misconduct. However, you should not be treated differently because of your sex.

These inappropriate remarks should also be reported to HR or your immediate supervisor for investigation. If the conduct continues, there may be grounds for a lawsuit.

Sexual Harassment From Co-Workers

Many people wonder if sexual harassment needs to be committed by a superior in the workplace. Naturally, supervisors and managers are to be held to a higher standard because of the power differential between them and the victim. A victim may feel coerced to tolerate or comply with inappropriate sexual conduct out of fear of losing their job. However, a co-worker does not have that same power.

Nevertheless, the law regarding sexual harassment continues to apply to co-workers. If a co-worker has sexually harassed you, it should be reported right away. If the co-worker in question continues to act inappropriately, your employer could be held liable for failing to intervene.

Another common misconception regarding sexual harassment is that it can only happen to women by men. However, the law treats all individuals equally. A woman can sexually harass a man, and there are even cases of same-gender harassment. Gender is irrelevant when discrimination is involved.

Gender-Based Harassment at Work

It is also possible to suffer illegal, sex-based harassment that is not sexual. This is known as gender-based harassment. One form of gender-based harassment would be attacks from a supervisor directed toward women or the use of gender-specific slurs or offensive terms.

The perpetrator of gender-based harassment can be a member of the same gender as the victim. The issue is whether the harassment occurred because of your gender.

Identifying Harassment at School

Sexual harassment is not limited to workplaces; it can also occur in educational settings. Schools, colleges, and universities are not immune to such behaviors, and the impact on students can be just as devastating.

Sexual harassment in schools can take many forms, including but not limited to inappropriate comments, unwelcome sexual advances, or sharing explicit images without consent. This behavior can come from peers, teachers, or other school staff. Harassment can occur in person, through text messages, or online.

It’s important to note that Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 prohibits sex discrimination in any educational program or activity receiving federal financial aid. This includes protection from sexual harassment. Schools are legally obligated to address sexual harassment issues promptly and effectively.

If you are a student and you believe you are experiencing sexual harassment at school, it’s important to report it immediately. You can report it to a trusted adult, a school counselor, or directly to your school’s Title IX coordinator. Remember to document each incident, noting the date, time, location, people involved, and what exactly happened. This information can be crucial if legal action becomes necessary.

Just like in the workplace, no one should have to endure sexual harassment in an educational setting. Everyone has the right to learn in a safe and respectful environment. If your school fails to address your complaints adequately, consider seeking legal assistance. An experienced attorney from Holman Schiavone Law, LLC can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a complaint or lawsuit.

Identifying Harassment at Institutions

Sexual harassment is not confined to workplaces or educational settings; it can also occur within various institutions such as hospitals, religious organizations, non-profit entities, and government bodies. In these environments, harassment can take many forms, including but not limited to unwelcome sexual advances, inappropriate comments, or the sharing of explicit materials without consent.

Such behavior can originate from peers, supervisors, or individuals in positions of authority. Identifying harassment in institutions requires a keen awareness of the dynamics at play and an understanding of the diverse ways it can manifest. It is crucial to recognize that harassment may not always be overt and can sometimes be subtle or implicit.

The Impact on Victims

Victims of sexual harassment can experience profound and far-reaching consequences. Emotionally, victims may experience depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, reduced self-esteem, and diminished self-confidence. These emotional effects can also manifest physically, leading to symptoms such as muscle aches, headaches, high blood pressure, and chronic physical pain.

The financial ramifications of sexual harassment in Kansas City workplaces can be equally severe. Individuals who have experienced sexual harassment may face:

  • Substantial financial setbacks due to lost wages and unpaid leave
  • Job loss or demotion
  • Long-term employment repercussions, such as loss of professional recommendations, termination, and damage to interpersonal relationships

These consequences emphasize the need for our compassionate and experienced legal assistance.

Steps You Should Take if You Are the Target of Sexual Harassment at Work in Kansas City

If you believe that you are being sexually harassed, there are steps you can take immediately:

  1. Make it clear to the harasser that his or her behavior is unwelcome.
  2. Inform your employer of the situation, preferably in writing, and let them know how you want it addressed.
  3. Keep a journal of each incident of harassment and obtain copies of your own work performance and records.
  4. Save any relevant emails, text messages, or chat conversations, and take screenshots of any comments made online.
  5. If there are witnesses to the harassment, be sure to get their contact information as well.
  6. If the harassment persists or action is not taken, consult with a sexual harassment attorney in Kansas City at Holman Schiavone Law, LLC to understand what your options are and whether you have a case.
  7. If you decide to pursue a claim, you should file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Missouri Commission on Human Rights

Try to follow whatever harassment policy your employer provides as closely as possible but by taking these steps, you can help ensure that you are protected from sexual harassment at work in Kansas City.

Understanding Your Legal Rights: State and Federal Laws on Sexual Harassment with Holman Schiavone Law, LLC

What Legal Rights Do I Have as a Victim of Sexual Harassment?

State and federal laws define and condemn discrimination across the United States. Federal law applies to all states, while Missouri state law applies specifically to Kansas City. An experienced sexual harassment attorney from Holman Schiavone Law, LLC can help Kansas City clients understand which laws specifically apply to their cases. However, two main laws govern sexual harassment.

The main state law is the Missouri Human Rights Act. This law defines various types of discrimination, which include sexual harassment. The primary federal law that also applies to Kansas City is the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

The Missouri Human Rights Act Prevents Discriminatory Practices Based on Sex

The MHRA is predominantly an employment law that prohibits many forms of discrimination in a work environment. Many sexual harassment attorneys have used this law to file suit against an employer for violations. It prohibits discrimination based on everything from religion to age and also includes sex. In addition, harassment on any of these grounds is also prohibited.

This employment law also requires companies to inform you of your rights. In many cases, this information can be found in your employee handbook. Employers are not allowed to retaliate against someone for filing a sexual harassment complaint to the Missouri Department of Labor. Speak to a Kansas City sexual harassment attorney to learn more about how this law may apply to your case.

Federal Laws: Title VII Protections

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 created protected classes of citizens. Discrimination or misconduct against any of these classes is considered a federal offense. Although this law is most often known for prohibiting racial discrimination, it also includes gender-based harassment and many other legal issues.

Although this law applies to all states, most sexual harassment lawyers will focus on state laws first. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission oversees the enforcement of this law, which applies to all federal employees or businesses with more than 15 employees.

What Legal Action Can I Take?

A man and a woman competing for the same position at work. Our sexual harassment lawyers in Kansas City are experienced with cases involving gender-based discrimination and harassment at work.

Without a lawyer for harassment, you can file a complaint with either the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the Missouri Commission which oversees the MHRA. However, you may find that you are unable to stop sexual harassment with a complaint alone. An experienced sexual harassment attorney can bring your case to court with a lawsuit and have a much greater impact.

In addition, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit and seek compensation for damages if you have been financially or physically affected by sexual harassment. Attorneys in Kansas City can help you to prepare these documents properly and file suit on time.

How Can A Kansas City Sexual Harassment Attorney Help?

If you want to seek compensation and demand justice for not just yourself, but anyone else who might find themselves a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, you will need the aid of a sexual harassment attorney, preferably one that is familiar with Kansas City law. Here’s what a lawyer can do for you.

Kansas City Sexual Harassment Attorneys Help You Build a Case

Your case of sexual harassment needs to be clearly explained to your attorneys. Even though the experiences may be difficult to discuss, a sexual harassment attorney has experience with these legal issues and will ensure full confidentiality. A good lawyer will always listen to their clients and respect their stories. After hearing the details, your attorney for harassment may ask for more information.

Documenting Sexual Harassment Cases

Legal claims in court are won with documentation. If you filed any complaints, whether to the state or your employer, you should bring copies to the law firm when you first visit. If you received inappropriate phone calls, text messages, or emails, bring copies of phone records or the conversations in question.

Law firm attorneys can also subpoena documents from employers if you cannot access them or your employer refuses to provide information.

Sexual Harassment Lawyers Know the Kansas City Missouri Legal System

Even with a solid case, the court system is complex. Kansas City attorneys know Kansas City courts and Missouri state laws. They can help you navigate the system efficiently and seek a settlement faster.

Filing a Sexual Harassment Lawsuit

Your sexual harassment civil suit will be filed in a Kansas City Missouri court. It’s important to file in the correct one. Your Kansas City lawyer will tell you where your lawsuit will be filed. The company or person named will have thirty days for their attorneys to respond. If you receive a settlement offer, your lawyer will inform you, or they can negotiate with the other party’s attorneys to try to get you a better deal.

If no agreement can be reached, you could also take your case to trial. Due to the backlog of cases in Kansas City, this could add several months or even a year to the duration of the case.

Your Legal Allies Against Sexual Harassment

At Holman Schiavone Law, LLC, our sexual harassment attorneys understand the challenges victims of sexual harassment face. We provide personalized legal strategies and trial-ready advocacy to ensure your voice is heard, your rights are protected, and justice is served. Our attorneys possess a wealth of experience in handling sexual harassment cases, encompassing an in-depth understanding of state and federal laws, court procedures, and current case law.

We believe that every victim deserves a safe working environment free from harassment. And to ensure this, we are committed to holding perpetrators accountable. We know every case is unique, so we take the time to listen and understand your circumstances, tailoring our approach accordingly.

Personalized Legal Strategies

Our approach revolves around the client’s needs. Our goal is to provide you with personalized legal advocacy that acknowledges your unique circumstances and the specific remedies required to secure your safety and rights. This approach can involve:

  • addressing commonly overlooked forms of harassment such as sexually tinged jokes, inappropriate emails, and sexual materials posted on bulletin boards
  • making abusers personally liable
  • extending actionable claims to coworkers and low-level employees

Understanding your unique needs and objectives enables us to craft an effective legal strategy. We are here to support and assist you every step of the way.

Trial-Ready Advocacy

We understand that your case is about more than just a legal dispute; it’s about seeking justice, holding perpetrators accountable, and preventing future incidents of harassment. That’s why we are ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

Managing the Complaint Process

The complaint process can be daunting, but we’re here to guide you through it. Determining when to approach HR and when to seek external assistance is key to resolving the issue. One wrong move could jeopardize your chance at justice, so it’s important to have trustworthy legal counsel by your side to help you navigate this process.

If an internal complaint does not lead to resolution, we can help you take the next step by filing a formal charge with the state or federal government, specifically with a government agency such as the MCHR or the EEOC, or with the Kansas City Human Relations Department if the harassment occurred in Kansas City.

When to Approach Human Resources

Knowing when to involve HR is crucial for a successful resolution. Here are some steps you can follow:

  1. Document instances of harassment.
  2. Collect any existing evidence.
  3. Contemplate seeking advice and assistance from an employment attorney.
  4. Officially present a sexual harassment complaint to HR.

We recommend contacting HR as soon as you become aware of any inappropriate behavior and making sure to submit an official complaint within 180 days of the incident. HR is responsible for preventing retaliation against individuals reporting harassment, protecting complainants from adverse actions, providing employee and leader training, and establishing a complaint-handling plan.

Seeking External Help

In the event of experiencing Kansas City sexual harassment in the workplace, seeking a case evaluation from an employment law organization or consulting with a proficient harassment employment law lawyer to explore options for filing a claim or initiating legal action is advisable.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Lawyer

Selecting the appropriate lawyer is a key factor in achieving a positive outcome in your case. An effective sexual harassment lawyer should possess the following skills:

  • Strong communication skills, including the ability to establish trust and maintain a good working relationship with their clients
  • Active listening skills
  • Compassion towards their clients, who may be in emotionally vulnerable situations

These skills are crucial in providing the support and representation needed in sexual harassment cases.

How Holman Schiavone Law, LLC Can Help You

Sexual harassment is a grave issue that requires immediate attention and action. If you or someone you know is a victim of such misconduct in Kansas City, it’s crucial to seek legal help.

At Holman Schiavone Law, LLC, we offer a range of services tailored to the needs of victims of sexual harassment. We understand that every case is different, and so we take the time to listen and understand your circumstances, tailoring our approach accordingly.

We begin by offering a range of services, including but not limited to:

  • Complimentary consultation to individuals
  • Formulating a customized legal representation plan tailored to address their distinct requirements and the particular aspects of their case
  • Continuous support and representation
  • Proven history of achieving favorable outcomes for clients in settlements and court cases.

We are dedicated to advocating for victims and ensuring they receive comprehensive and equitable compensation.

We offer representation in a range of legal areas. Whether it’s employment law or personal injury law, we have achieved significant victories in cases involving sexual abuse, harassment, and other non-workplace-related matters. We distinguish ourselves through our commitment to leveling the playing field against adversaries, comprehensive handling of all legal aspects of a case, and customization of counsel and representation to address each client’s individual needs and goals.

Client-Centered Services We Offer

Our approach revolves around the client’s needs. Our goal is to provide you with personalized legal advocacy that acknowledges your unique circumstances and the specific remedies required to secure your safety and rights. This approach can involve:

  • addressing commonly overlooked forms of harassment such as sexually tinged jokes, inappropriate emails, and sexual materials posted on bulletin boards
  • making abusers personally liable
  • extending actionable claims to coworkers 

Free Consultation: Starting Your Journey to Justice

We understand that seeking help can be a daunting task. That’s why we offer a free consultation where we can discuss your case in detail, explore potential legal remedies, and answer any intricate legal inquiries regarding your case. You can call us at 816-399-5149 to arrange a no-obligation consultation today.

This initial consultation marks a significant first stage in your quest for justice. It allows us to delve into the details of your case, understand your needs and goals, and develop a tailored legal strategy. We’re here to help you navigate this challenging path and ensure that you are not alone in this fight.

Building Your Case: Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Building a strong case is a meticulous process that involves comprehensive investigation and evidence gathering. We conduct a thorough inquiry into each incident and assemble all relevant evidence to strengthen your case. This includes:

  • Collecting specimens
  • Documenting any injuries
  • Providing evidence and names of witnesses

Witnesses play an essential role in sexual harassment investigations, providing support to the targeted individual and offering an impartial perspective on the events that transpired. We recognize the pivotal role evidence gathering plays in shaping the outcome of sexual harassment litigation. Our team will strive to compile the necessary evidence and construct a robust case in your favor.

Contact Us to Take a Stand Against Sexual Harassment

At Holman Schiavone, LLC, our sexual harassment lawyers in Kansas City are ready to assist you with your sexual harassment complaint. Our staff can help you work through your employer’s harassment policy and advise you on how to lay the groundwork for a lawsuit, if necessary.

Please call our Kansas City sexual harassment attorneys at 816-399-5149 or email us to schedule a free initial consultation. We represent clients throughout Missouri and Kansas. Take the first step towards reclaiming your rights and well-being. Our dedicated team at Holman Schiavone, LLC, is here to support you through every stage of your sexual harassment journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes a hostile work environment in Kansas?

In Kansas, a hostile work environment is characterized by an employee feeling harassed, intimidated, or oppressed, leading to a negative impact on their ability to work. This can result from hostility by the employer or harassment by co-workers.

What Happens if I Was Passed Over for a Promotion Based On My Gender?

If you believe that you were passed over for a promotion based on your gender, you may have a discrimination claim. The ideal way to determine whether you have a claim is to speak with an experienced discrimination and sexual harassment attorney in Kansas City from Holman Schiavone Law, LLC.

There are a variety of laws that protect employees from discrimination, including the Equal Pay Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, and the Missouri Human Rights Act. If you can prove that you were passed over for a promotion because of your gender, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and benefits, as well as punitive damages. You may also be able to recover attorneys’ fees and costs.

What forms can sexual harassment take in the workplace?

Sexual harassment in the workplace can take the form of unwanted advances, inappropriate comments or jokes, threats, and physical contact from co-workers, management, and even non-employees such as clients or customers. It is essential to be aware of these various forms to address and prevent them effectively.

Can I Obtain Compensation for Sexual Harassment at Work?

In Kansas City, sexual harassment on the job is illegal and individuals who have experienced it are entitled to full compensation for their mistreatment. Holman Schiavone Law, LLC can help you navigate the process of filing a claim, ensuring that any financial losses incurred from lost wages, pain, suffering, and other damages are fully accounted for. Both Kansas and Missouri laws provide robust protections for employees facing this type of harassment, although all cases are different depending on your workplace dynamics and situation. Contacting an experienced sexual harassment lawyer from. Holman Schiavone Law, LLC can help you gain back your peace of mind as soon as possible.

What steps should I take if an internal complaint does not lead to a resolution?

If an internal complaint does not lead to resolution, consider filing a formal charge with a government agency such as the MCHR, EEOC, or the Kansas City Human Relations Department (if applicable). This can help escalate the matter for further investigation and resolution.