Sexual Harassment Attorney in Silver Spring

Serving Maryland and Washington D.C.

Coming forward with allegations of sexual harassment is challenging. Our attorney at Emejuru Law is ready to stand by your side at every stage of your case. We offer compassionate and determined counsel. Local, state, and federal laws protect your right to a safe workplace. Our goal is to hold those accountable who violate your rights and well-being.

Located in Silver Spring, our law firm stays up to date with Maryland employment law and local court procedures. We understand the diverse workplaces in Montgomery County, including federal agencies and private businesses. Working with us means personalized guidance shaped by the realities of the Silver Spring region. We navigate the challenges unique to our community and adapt our approach to meet your individual needs. We also account for timing and documentation requirements in Maryland, and we help you understand each step to protect your rights no matter the type of employer.

Come to Emejuru Law to discuss your situation in a safe and confidential environment. Send us an online message or call (240) 607-5552 to schedule your initial consultation. We speak Spanish upon request.

Defining Workplace Sexual Harassment

Federal law protects applicants and employees from sexual harassment by supervisors, co-workers, clients, and customers. Sexual harassment involves conduct based on sex, and the genders of either party do not limit protections. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 defines sexual harassment as a type of discrimination, with federal protections applying to employers and businesses with 15 or more employees.

In Maryland, the law covers workers in both public and private sectors, extending certain protections to employees at smaller businesses that may not meet the federal threshold. For people working in Silver Spring, you may access help through federal agencies, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, or state resources like the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights. Montgomery County residents also benefit from additional local ordinances, especially those working in government or education sectors commonly found throughout the area.

Under Title VII, sexual harassment may include:

• Unwelcome sexual advances
• Requests for sexual favors
• Any verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature
• Offensive comments about a person’s sex/gender

Defining sexual harassment depends on how the conduct affects your entire work environment. For example, an isolated offhand comment may fall short of legal harassment.

If you experience concerning actions at work in Silver Spring, keep a record of what happened to help clarify your path forward. Many employers in Maryland, including those in Montgomery County, must follow set guidelines for investigating reports. Knowing your rights and the steps open to you can help you feel safer and more confident at work.

Generally, comments or other actions may qualify as sexual harassment if:

• The harasser has either explicitly or implicitly communicated that this treatment is a part of the terms of your employment;
• An employment decision is made based on your submission to or rejection of the conduct; and/or
• The conduct interferes with your work or creates a hostile or abusive work environment.

It can be tough to know if your experience fits the legal definition of sexual harassment. Our employment lawyer in Silver Spring can help shoulder some of the burden and provide counsel you can rely on.

Navigating the Sexual Harassment Legal Process in Silver Spring

Understanding the steps in a sexual harassment case can help you make informed choices if you decide to take action. Maryland and Montgomery County each have procedures and timelines that may impact your options. In Silver Spring, you may start by reporting harassment to your employer or human resources, according to your workplace policy. Companies in the area, especially larger employers and federal contractors, often have set processes for handling complaints.

The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights accepts complaints from individuals at the state level, while federal employees or those in larger organizations may involve the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Silver Spring, with its concentration of federal workers and contractors, makes choosing the correct agency especially important. Maryland generally gives you up to two years to file with the state, but the federal timeline can be shorter.

Following the right steps and meeting deadlines plays a crucial role in your progress. At Emejuru Law, we help you learn about your options and support you as you navigate the process within Silver Spring’s legal landscape and varied workforce. For experienced guidance, reach out to a seasoned sexual harassment attorney in Silver Spring as soon as possible.

Connect with an experienced sexual harassment lawyer in Silver Spring without delay. Submit an online form to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file both a state and federal sexual harassment complaint in Maryland?

Yes. You can file complaints with both the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission if you meet the requirements of each agency. The rules and process for each may vary, so review them carefully before filing. For more information, speak with an experienced sexual harassment attorney from our firm.

Does retaliation protection apply if I report sexual harassment at work?

Both Maryland and federal law protect you from retaliation after reporting sexual harassment or participating in an investigation. These safeguards give you the right to step forward without fear of punishment or negative consequences.

How does the process differ for government and private employees in Silver Spring?

Government employees, especially those in federal positions, may follow a different process or face different deadlines than private sector workers. These differences can determine where you file and which protections apply to your case.

Our qualified Silver Spring sexual harassment attorney is here to assist you. Call (240) 607-5552 to schedule your initial consultation without delay.