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Employment Law

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment in the workplace is unlawful and deeply harmful. You have the right to work in an environment free from this behaviour. We can help you take action with sensitivity and discretion.

  • Sexual harassment is unlawful under the Employment Relations Act
  • You can take action while still employed
  • We handle your case with complete confidentiality

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What is sexual harassment in the workplace?

Sexual harassment occurs when a person in a workplace makes a request of a sexual nature, makes comments of a sexual nature, or engages in unwanted physical contact that causes the affected person to feel humiliated, offended, or intimidated. It does not matter whether the harasser intended to cause harm.

Under the Employment Relations Act 2000, sexual harassment by an employer or their representative can give rise to a personal grievance claim. Your employer also has a duty to take reasonable steps to prevent harassment by other employees. If they fail to do so, they may also be liable.

Your rights

You have the right to a workplace free from sexual harassment. Your employer has a legal obligation to take your complaint seriously and investigate it promptly and fairly.

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How we can help you

We provide clear, practical advice and strong representation throughout your case.

Free assessment

We review your situation and give you an honest assessment of your legal options and the strength of your case.

Raise a grievance

We prepare and submit a formal personal grievance to your employer within the 90 day deadline.

Mediation support

We represent and support you throughout the mediation process to achieve the best possible outcome.

Tribunal representation

If mediation fails, we represent you before the Employment Relations Authority or Employment Court.

Compensation

We pursue the remedies available to you including lost wages, compensation for distress, and reinstatement where appropriate.

Ongoing advice

We keep you informed at every stage and are available to answer your questions throughout the process.

What the process looks like

Here is what to expect when you work with us on your case.

01

Free consultation

We start with a no obligation conversation to understand your situation and advise whether you have a viable case.

02

Gather evidence

We help you identify and compile the evidence needed to support your claim.

03

Raise a grievance

We prepare and send a formal grievance letter to your employer clearly setting out the basis of your claim.

04

Employer response

Your employer has the opportunity to respond. We review their position and advise on next steps.

05

Mediation

A mediator facilitates a confidential discussion between both parties. Most cases settle at this stage.

06

Resolution

Whether through settlement or a formal determination, we work to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Restrictions & disqualifiers

There are some situations where a claim may be more difficult to pursue. We encourage you to seek advice before ruling out your options.

90 day time limit

You must raise your personal grievance within 90 days of the act or omission. This deadline is strict and missing it will likely end your claim.

Contractor status

If you were engaged as an independent contractor rather than an employee, the employment law protections may not apply in the same way.

Evidence

The strength of your case may depend on the evidence available. We can advise you on what evidence is needed and how to obtain it.

Contributory behaviour

If your own conduct contributed to the situation, this may reduce the remedies available to you, though it will not necessarily prevent a claim.

Existing agreements

Settlement agreements or deeds of release you have previously signed may affect your ability to raise certain claims. We can review any such documents.

Not sure if you qualify?

Don't rule yourself out before speaking to us. Contact us for a free assessment of your situation and options.

Ready to take action?

We understand how difficult it can be to come forward. Our team handles every case with complete sensitivity and confidentiality. Contact us today for a free, private consultation.