Hostile Work Environment Lawyers

Long Island Hostile Work Environment Lawyers

Fighting For Those Who Have Experienced a Hostile Work Environment in New York

Workplace discrimination and harassment can seriously impact your well-being and job performance, often creating what the law recognizes as a hostile work environment. You have the right to a safe, respectful workplace; both New York State and federal law protect you from workplace hostility, and you may file a claim if you experience a hostile environment.

It's important to understand that various forms of harassment can lead to a hostile work environment. While sexual harassment is a common cause, other types of harassment, if severe or pervasive, can also create a hostile atmosphere.

If you're facing a hostile work environment in Long Island, Ricotta & Marks, P.C. can help. We represent employees in a wide range of hostile work environment claims.

Call (917) 540-8565 today to schedule a consultation with a Long Island hostile work environment attorney. We can assess your case and help you understand your legal options.

Long Island Sexual Harassment Lawyers

“Their knowledge, commitment, and understanding of my situation has been exceptional.”
Due to a termination letter I received I needed clarification, consultation, and advice on how to move forward. Ricotta & Marks has definitely been the best place to be to help me through the law jargon. Thank you for having my best interests in mind.

John L.
“They helped settle my case very quickly, and I received a great settlement in the end.”
Mr Marks is an amazing lawyer. He is always kind and respectful and there for me whenever I need him. I want to thanks Mr Marks and the firm for everything. I highly recommend you guys. Thanks again for everything.

Kel K.
“When you need the best legal minds to fight for you and your career, do not trust anyone but Ricotta and Marks, P.C.”
Tom Ricotta’s sound advice, calm demeanor, and willingness to advocate for your rights was invaluable. I highly recommend Tom’s abilities and am grateful for his assistance.

J.T.
“Good people work here.”
This firm cares and knows how to properly assess the merits of your case. I know because I'm an attorney. I had retainer agreement offers from 4 other firms and Ricotta was my 1st choice based on their belief in my case and fair terms.

Nima D.

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How to File a Hostile Work Environment Claim

If you're facing a hostile work environment in New York, taking action is crucial.

Here's an outline of the process:

Initiate an internal complaint (if applicable): Many employers have internal policies for reporting harassment. Review your employee handbook or consult with HR. While not always required, initiating an internal complaint can be helpful.
File with the EEOC or NYSDHR: You have the option to file a complaint with either the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the New York State Division of Human Rights (NYSDHR). These agencies investigate discrimination claims.
Timely filing is critical: Strict deadlines apply to filing a hostile work environment claim. In New York, you generally have 300 days from the discriminatory act to file with the EEOC and one year to file with the NYSDHR. Missing these deadlines could bar your claim.
Agency investigation: The EEOC or NYSDHR will investigate your claim. This process may include interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence.
Right-to-sue letter: If the agency finds merit, they may attempt conciliation or file a lawsuit on your behalf. If they don't find sufficient evidence or choose not to pursue the case, they will issue a "right-to-sue" letter, allowing you to file a lawsuit in court.

Navigating this process can be complex. Ricotta & Marks, P.C. can provide guidance and representation. Contact us today for a free consultation. Our hostile work environment attorney in Lond Island can help you understand your rights and pursue the best course of action.

What Constitutes a Hostile Work Environment?

A hostile work environment exists when unwelcome conduct based on protected characteristics creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work atmosphere. This conduct must be severe or pervasive enough to alter the terms and conditions of employment.

The law doesn't prohibit simple teasing, offhand comments, or isolated incidents that are not very serious. The conduct must be so objectively offensive that a reasonable person would find it hostile or abusive. The victim must also subjectively perceive the environment to be abusive.

Examples of potentially hostile behaviors:

Offensive jokes, slurs, epithets or name-calling
Physical threats or assault
Intimidation
Ridicule or mockery
Insults or put-downs
Offensive objects or pictures

"Severe or Pervasive" Harassment

For conduct to create a hostile work environment, it must be either severe or pervasive.

A single, severe incident (such as a physical assault) could create a hostile work environment. Alternatively, a series of less severe acts that occur regularly (such as repeated offensive comments) can also constitute a hostile work environment.

Can I Sue My Employer for Creating a Hostile Work Environment?

You have the right to pursue legal action against your employer if you've experienced a hostile work environment.

To have a strong case, you must demonstrate that the harassment was based on a protected characteristic, such as your race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation.

The harassment must have also been severe or pervasive, creating an abusive atmosphere that a reasonable person would find hostile. Importantly, this harassment must have impacted your ability to perform your job.

Finally, you must show your employer knew or should have known about the harassment but failed to take appropriate action.

Our Settlements & Verdicts

$15 MIL Plaintiff on Bianco v. Flushing Hospital Medical Center
$1 MIL Olsen, et al. v. The County of Nassau, et al.
$875K Wallace v. Suffolk County Police Department
$523K Penniston v. The New York City Department of Education (Co-Counsel)
Norton v. Town of Islip UFSD, 011 U.S. Dist
Green v. City of New York 2010 U.S. Dist.

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Why Choose Ricotta & Marks, P.C.?

At Ricotta & Marks, P.C., we understand the challenges you face. We're committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through this difficult time.

Here's why clients choose Ricotta & Marks, P.C.:

Focused on your needs: We focus our attention on employment law and have been advocating for workers' rights since 2013.
Prepared and determined: We meticulously prepare every case as if it's going to trial.
Accessible and transparent: We offer free in-person and virtual consultations, and strive to return calls promptly.
Contingency fees: We understand the financial burden legal matters can bring. That's why we offer contingency fee arrangements, meaning you only pay our fee if we win your case.
On your side: We represent federal employees and individuals in the New York City area.
Honest and upfront: We provide realistic and actionable advice about your situation, even if it's not what you want to hear.
Client-focused: Your best interests are our priority. We care about the people we serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What deadlines apply to filing a hostile work environment claim?

Filing deadlines depend on the agency. EEOC complaints usually must be filed within 300 days of the last incident. For the New York State Division of Human Rights, the deadline is typically one year. City and union employees may have different internal reporting deadlines. It's important to review your workplace policies or seek legal guidance as soon as possible.

Can I report a hostile work environment if I work for a public school or municipality?

Yes, public school and local government employees have the right to report a hostile work environment. However, you may need to follow your employer's internal grievance policy or other required steps before seeking outside remedies. A local employment attorney can help you understand these extra requirements and protect your rights.

What should I do if my employer retaliates after I make a complaint?

If you believe your employer has retaliated, document your experiences and any communications regarding your complaint. Retaliation is illegal, and additional legal remedies may be available. Speak with a law firm familiar with Long Island employment law to review your options and next steps.

Contact Our Hostile Work Enivornment Attorney in Long Island Today

If you are facing a hostile work environment, you do not have to go through it alone. Our Long Island hostile work environment attorneys are here to protect your rights and fight for the fair treatment you deserve. We understand how stressful and overwhelming workplace harassment or discrimination can be, and we are ready to guide you through every step of the legal process. Contact us today to request a consultation and learn how we can assist you in pursuing justice and a safer, more respectful workplace.

We can help you through this challenging time. Contact us online or call (917) 540-8565 today to schedule a free consultation with our Long Island hostile work environment lawyer at Ricotta & Marks, P.C..

WHEN YOUR JOB AND FUTURE ARE AT STAKE, WE DON'T BACK DOWN

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