How Can a Sexual Harassment Claim Address Harm to a Victim?

 Posted on June 10, 2024 in Main

If you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, you may have suffered significant physical, emotional, and professional harm. Addressing these issues through a legal claim can ensure that you will be compensated for the harm done to you, and can provide much-needed support for recovery. An experienced attorney can help you understand the legal remedies that may be available in your situation, and can provide the representation you need as you seek justice.

Legal Remedies for Sexual Harassment Victims

There are several ways the harm you have suffered due to sexual harassment may be addressed. Depending on the specifics of your case, legal remedies may include:

• Compensation for emotional distress: Sexual harassment can cause psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). You may be able to receive compensation that addresses the ways you have been affected, including the mental anguish caused by your experience and your diminished quality of life due to your emotional trauma.
• Reimbursement for therapy and other expenses: Recovering from sexual harassment often requires professional support, such as therapy or counseling. You may receive compensation to address the costs of counseling sessions, medical treatment related to physical harm or stress-induced conditions, or medications prescribed to manage mental health issues.
• Restoration of career opportunities: If sexual harassment has negatively impacted your career, such as through missed promotions, demotions, or the loss of your job, you may receive compensation that addresses lost wages or harm to your future income-earning opportunities. You may also be restored to your former position, or you could receive promotions or career advancements that you were denied due to harassment.
• Remedies in the workplace: An employer may be required to implement changes to create a safer and more inclusive environment. These may include the adoption or enforcement of stronger anti-harassment policies, mandatory training for employees and management on how to recognize and prevent sexual harassment, and clear reporting procedures and monitoring systems to address harassment complaints promptly.
• Punitive damages: If sexual harassment was especially egregious, you may be able to receive additional damages. This can serve as a financial penalty for the harasser or an employer who did not take the proper steps to prevent sexual harassment. This can deter future misconduct and encourage other employers to take sexual harassment seriously and implement preventive measures.

How These Remedies Can Help With a Victim’s Recovery

Pursuing a sexual harassment claim can provide more than just financial compensation. It can also help you recover emotionally and professionally. The benefits may include:

• Emotional healing: Receiving compensation for emotional distress and therapy expenses can help you access the resources you need to heal. Knowing that justice has been served can also provide a sense of closure and validation.
• Professional rehabilitation: Restoring career opportunities and recovering lost income can help you regain your professional footing. This can ensure that your career trajectory will not be permanently derailed by the sexual harassment you have endured.
• Creating safer workplaces: Legal remedies that enforce policy changes, training, and monitoring systems can contribute to a safer and more respectful work environment. These changes will benefit you and your colleagues, fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.

Contact Our Wheaton Sexual Harassment Attorneys

As a victim of sexual harassment, understanding your legal options will help you take the first steps toward recovery. At Mirabella, Kincaid, Frederick & Mirabella, LLC., our DuPage County sexual harassment lawyers can help you pursue the remedies you deserve. Contact us at 630-665-7300 to schedule a consultation and get the legal representation you need to address sexual harassment and recover from this difficult experience.