Experienced New York City Sexual Harassment Lawyer
In 2023, New York enacted significant changes to its sexual harassment laws, expanding the rights of employees and holding employers to higher standards of accountability.
At Sutton Sachs Meyer PLLC, we understand how distressing sexual harassment can be. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to providing the legal guidance you need to protect your rights and hold harassers accountable.
What Is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment involves inappropriate behavior of a sexual nature that can make the work environment hostile or uncomfortable. This includes:
- Unwelcome physical contact
- Sexual comments or jokes
- Requests for sexual favors
- Displaying explicit materials
Harassment can affect anyone, regardless of gender and can occur between colleagues, supervisors or even third parties like clients. The inappropriate behavior does not have to be aimed at a specific person—it can still be considered harassment if it impacts an employee’s ability to work.
Recent Updates To New York’s Sexual Harassment Laws
New York Labor Law Section 201-g(1)(b) mandates that employers adopt the model sexual harassment prevention policy or develop a compliant alternative. The model policy is updated every four years, resulting in the following key changes:
- Expanded definitions: Harassment now includes gender identity and expression.
- Harassment standards: It clarifies that behavior does not need to be severe or pervasive to be considered illegal.
- Bystander intervention: New methods for bystander intervention are outlined to assist witnesses of harassment.
- Remote harassment: Harassment occurring through virtual platforms is recognized as creating a hostile work environment.
- Updated examples: An updated list of examples of sexual harassment is provided, though it is not exhaustive.
These changes were designed to provide employees with more options when facing workplace harassment and to hold employers accountable for creating safe environments.
Contact A New York City Sexual Harassment Lawyer
If you’ve experienced sexual harassment at work, Sutton Sachs Meyer PLLC is ready to help. Our team offers dedicated support and guidance through every step of the process. Call us at 212-884-9727 or reach out online to schedule a consultation with a skilled New York City sexual harassment lawyer today.