The Elements of A Hostile Workplace

In order to prove a hostile workplace exists, you must be able to show the employer has discriminated against you because of your inclusion in a protected class. These protected classes are those listed in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or protected by state or federal law, including race, color, national origin, religion, disability, gender, veteran status and age. It’s important to note sexual harassment is considered to be a form of gender discrimination, which is why it is covered under hostile workplace laws.

Besides this, you will also have to prove the harassment occurred. Keep in mind isolated incidents of inappropriate behavior are not illegal because the law only views repeated, ongoing behavior as harassment. Although an isolated offensive joke or gesture may be inappropriate for the workplace, it is not considered harassment. To prove your case, you will need to show the harassing behavior occurred on multiple occasions and over an extended period of time..

Hostile Workplace Liability

Any employee who is stuck in a hostile workplace is legally allowed to report it. This means employees who are directly harassed along with third party employees who are only witnesses to the behavior can report hostile work environments. This is permitted by law to ensure that every employee is given the same right to a safe, productive workplace.

Protect Your Rights

Employees’ rights are protected under both state and federal law, so you should never have to tolerate hostile work environments. Contact Shegerian Conniff today to discuss your legal rights with a team of competent and qualified employment law attorneys.