Hostile Work Environment Lawyers Standing Up For Employees In New York And New Jersey

Last updated on May 22, 2025

Hostile work environments can arise from various forms of harassment, including sexual harassment, creating an atmosphere that is intimidating or offensive. Everyone deserves a workplace that is free from such hostility. 

At Sutton Sachs Meyer PLLC, we stand up for the rights of employees who are experiencing a hostile work environment. Our lawyers recognize the significant impact a hostile work environment can have on your professional and personal life. We are committed to helping you understand your rights and take action to secure a safer, more respectful workplace.

What Exactly Is A Hostile Work Environment?

A hostile work environment emerges when sexual harassment becomes severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile or abusive workplace. This can affect anyone, regardless of gender, and reporting such behavior is protected by law. Employers cannot retaliate against employees who report harassment or hostile work environments.

Examples of a hostile work environment include:

• Making inappropriate jokes or comments based on gender, race or other protected characteristics
• Engaging in unwanted physical contact or sexual advances
• Displaying offensive images 
• Sending harassing chat messages or emails
• Engaging in verbal abuse or threats
• Sabotaging an employee’s work performance

A hostile work environment is characterized by a pattern of behavior, not just a one-off incident. The harassment must be frequent and severe enough to interfere with an employee’s work performance or create an intimidating environment. Such behavior can be perpetuated by anyone within the workplace, including coworkers, managers, supervisors, or even clients or customers. This ongoing misconduct can significantly affect an employee’s mental health and job satisfaction, making legal intervention necessary to address the issue and restore a respectful workplace.

Applicable Laws In New York And New Jersey

In New York and New Jersey, several laws protect employees from workplace harassment and discrimination. These include federal laws like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, as well as state-specific statutes that provide additional protections. Our lawyers have a deep understanding of these laws and can explain how they apply to your situation.

How Can An Attorney Help?

Our lawyers can assist you by providing experienced guidance, representation and advocacy. We can serve as a shield between you and your employer (and the perpetrators). We will evaluate your situation, help gather necessary evidence and advise you on potential legal actions. Solutions might include seeking monetary compensation, removal from the hostile environment or larger-scale enforcement measures through administrative action. We can guide you on the right path to a fair resolution.

Empowering You To Take A Stand

If you are experiencing a hostile work environment, contact us today at 212-884-9727 to explore your options. We offer free and confidential consultations to discuss your situation and explore how we can empower and support you in standing up against misconduct in the workplace.