Pennsylvania Same-Sex Sexual Harassment Attorney

Same-Sex Harassment at the Workplace is A Crime. We Can Help.

The American public understands that sexual harassment is an issue that can occur in the workplace. The popular conception of this offense typically involves a man harassing a woman, although women may also commit acts of harassment against their male coworkers. However, sexual harassment is not limited to interactions with people of the opposite sex. Unfortunately, victims of same-sex sexual harassment may struggle to properly address this issue. Regardless of the attitudes that surround this issue, victims of sexual harassment will want to take steps to protect their rights and ensure that they can be free from harassment in the future.

Nobody should have to deal with sexual harassment, and those who have experienced these problems in the workplace may need to take legal action to address the harm they have suffered. The attorneys of Colianni & Leonard LLC understand the ways harassment can affect a person. We know how difficult it can be to address these problems, especially in situations where a person may already be dealing with stigmas related to their sexual orientation or gender identity. We believe in advocating on behalf of all sexual harassment victims and helping them take the proper legal action to ensure that they can work in a harassment-free environment.

Quid Pro Quo Harassment Against People of the Same Sex

Many of the most serious forms of sexual harassment are committed by those who are in positions of authority over others. In these cases, a person may attempt to initiate a relationship with a coworker or make other sexual advances in a way that affects the victim's employment or income. A supervisor may threaten to demote or punish a person if they do not engage in certain behaviors, or they may offer rewards such as promotions or benefits in return for sexual favors.

Quid pro quo sexual harassment can occur between coworkers of the same sex. Some offenders may threaten to divulge embarrassing secrets that would threaten a victim's reputation, or they may claim that nobody will believe that they would engage in harassment against someone of the same sex. In these situations, victims may need to take steps to document instances of harassment to ensure that their motives will not be called into question.

Same-Sex Harassment Involving a Hostile Work Environment

Sexual harassment may also involve situations where the actions of one or more employees make it difficult for them to perform work-related duties. This is known as a hostile work environment, and it can take many forms. Coworkers may engage in offensive jokes, derogatory comments, or inappropriate discussions related to a person's sexual orientation or gender identity, and these actions can cause significant emotional distress.

Same-sex sexual harassment can take a variety of other forms. A person may discuss his sexual conquests with his male coworkers, making them uncomfortable. A female employee may make inappropriate comments about other women's appearances. When these actions affect a victim's ability to work successfully, and when harassment continues even after it is reported to management or a person is asked to stop, a victim may be able to take legal action to address the ways they have been affected.

Contact Our Pittsburgh Same-Sex Sexual Harassment Attorneys

If you have experienced harassment in the workplace by a person of the same sex, or if you have been subject to harassment or other forms of employment discrimination based on your gender identity or sexual orientation, our lawyers can help you understand your legal options. Contact our firm today at 412-680-7877 to arrange a free consultation and get legal help with your case.