By Ricotta & Marks, P.C. on October 20th, 2023 in Sexual Harassment, Workplace Discrimination
You may have heard the terms Harassment and Emotional Distress, but what do they actually mean in a legal context? This article explores these two concepts and lets you know what you should do if you are a victim.
Harassment in the workplace and emotional distress often go hand in hand. Many workers in New York City have been victims of harassment by co-workers, supervisors, or other employees. In fact, a recent study found that almost 60% of men and women reported that they had experienced harassment in the workplace.
Because of the prevalence of harassment and its long-term effects on victims, New York law allows victims to be compensated for their injuries. This type of compensation, among other damages that can be recovered, is often referred to as emotional distress damages. Harassment and Emotional Distress cases are often brought by Workplace Harassment Lawyers in NYC. An experienced Employment Lawyer can help victims get justice as well as recover damages in the form of a monetary award.
What is harassment?
Harassment is an umbrella term that includes any words or behavior that threatens, intimidates, or demeans an individual based on their membership in a protected class. Workers are protected from on-the-job harassment by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
In the workplace, harassment can be seen in many forms including:
- Written/verbal
- Physical
- Visual
- Other types of harassment
No matter the form, harassment is against the law. As such, victims can seek possible compensation for their injuries.
What is emotional distress?
Emotional distress refers to mental anguish as an emotional response to the effect or memory of a particular event, occurrence, pattern of events, or condition. These damages may be awarded in cases of discrimination, sexual harassment, wrongful termination, hostile work environment, and more.
Symptoms of emotional distress vary and can include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Loss of ability to perform tasks
- Physical illness
- Other symptoms
Medical reports, fitness tracker records, and more can be used in a Harassment and Emotional Distress claim in NYC. Victims should collect as much evidence as possible, starting with the initial harassment and continuing through to the present day.
Typically, NYC courts will consider both the duration and severity of the harassment when determining the amount of emotional distress damages.
How do I file a Harassment and Emotional Distress lawsuit?
Victims of Harassment and Emotional Distress may be entitled to compensation. If you’re considering filing a Harassment and Emotional Distress claim, we are here to help. Contact Ricotta & Marks, P.C. today at (347) 535-0999.