Can Sexual Harassment Happen Outside the Office? Remote Work Realities

When most people think of sexual harassment, they imagine unwanted sexual advances or inappropriate behavior in a traditional office setting. However, sexual harassment can also occur outside the workplace—during work-sponsored events, business travel, or while working remotely. Harassment in these settings can create a hostile work environment, but it can be harder to prove, particularly if there are no witnesses. Fortunately, remote employees are protected by the same federal and state laws as those working in offices. If you have been the victim of sexual harassment outside the office, it is important to contact an experienced sexual harassment attorney promptly.

Examples of Sexual Harassment Outside the Workplace

Remote work offers flexibility, cost savings, and improved work-life balance. However, “virtual” sexual harassment has become more common, especially since the increase in remote work following the global pandemic. Examples include:

• Inappropriate Messages: Texts, emails, or messages on platforms like Slack or Teams that are sexually explicit, offensive, or make you feel uncomfortable.
• Misconduct During Virtual Meetings: Suggestive comments, unwanted private messages, or inappropriate remarks about someone’s appearance or attire during video calls.
• Social Media Harassment: Inappropriate messages, images, or advances sent via platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, or Snapchat by colleagues, supervisors, or clients.
• Harassment During Non-Work Hours: Work events outside normal business hours, especially when alcohol is involved, can lead to inappropriate behavior that creates discomfort or fear.

Laws Protecting Remote Employees from Sexual Harassment

Remote workers are protected by the same laws as on-site employees:

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Title VII protects employees from harassment that creates a hostile work environment or involves quid pro quo harassment, where employment benefits are conditioned on sexual favors.
• New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD): Prohibits employers from denying employment opportunities or benefits based on protected characteristics and protects employees from retaliation.

Steps to Take if You Experience Sexual Harassment as a Remote Worker

1. Collect Evidence: Preserve all relevant texts, emails, voicemails, social media posts, and video recordings. Ask colleagues to provide statements if they witnessed harassment during virtual meetings.
2. Review Company Policies: Examine your employer’s harassment and remote work policies. Note any outdated or non-compliant practices.
3. Report the Behavior: File a complaint with your HR department to create a paper trail. If the employer does not act, you may file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a state or local agency.
4. Contact a Sexual Harassment Attorney: An experienced attorney can help gather evidence, guide you through filing complaints, and pursue appropriate legal remedies.

Potential Damages in a Sexual Harassment Claim

If you can prove sexual harassment while working remotely, you may be entitled to:

• Back Pay: Compensation for lost wages, denied promotions, bonuses, healthcare benefits, retirement contributions, and paid time off.
• Emotional Distress: Damages for anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) caused by harassment.
• Reinstatement: Returning to your previous position if you were terminated for reporting harassment.
• Other Out-of-Pocket Costs: Expenses such as medical treatment, career counseling, and job search costs.

Cherry Hill Sexual Harassment Lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C.

If you have experienced sexual harassment while working remotely or outside the office, contact a Cherry Hill sexual harassment lawyer at The Gold Law Firm P.C. We protect your rights, guide you through the claims process, and help negotiate fair settlements. Call 215-569-1999 or reach out online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia and Pennsauken, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout South Jersey, including Cherry Hill, Haddonfield, Marlton, Moorestown, and Mount Laurel.