Bullied at Work: What Are Your Options?

Workplace bullying can take many forms, from verbal abuse to exclusion, intimidation, or repeated disrespect. While such behavior is always upsetting and can affect your mental and physical health, not all workplace bullying is illegal. In many cases, people may act poorly without violating the law.

However, bullying becomes illegal when it is based on your membership in a protected class. If this happens, you may have grounds for a lawsuit for harassment or discrimination, potentially resulting in financial compensation. These cases can be complex, making it crucial to involve an experienced employment attorney as early as possible.

When Bullying Is Illegal

Both federal and New Jersey employment laws prohibit workplace discrimination. This includes situations where you are forced to endure a hostile work environment because of your membership in a protected class. Protected classes under these laws typically include:

• Race
• Gender
• Religion
• Disability
• Sexual orientation
• Age

Harassment is a form of discrimination. It can be ongoing or occur as a single severe incident. For example:

• Repeated inappropriate comments or jokes targeting a protected characteristic.
• Exposure to offensive images or messages at work.
• A single use of slurs or discriminatory language that is extreme enough to create a hostile environment.

In some cases, extremely severe bullying may support a claim for intentional infliction of emotional distress. These cases are rare and require conduct that is shocking or outrageous. Day-to-day workplace bullying usually does not meet this standard.

Steps to Take if You Are Being Bullied

If you believe you are being bullied at work, especially in a potentially discriminatory way, consider taking the following steps:

1. Document Everything

Keep a detailed record of incidents, including:

• Dates, times, and locations
• Names of witnesses
• Emails, texts, or other written communication

Documentation is essential for building a potential legal case.

2. Speak Up

Even if confronting the bully directly feels unsafe, you should report the behavior to:

• Management
• Human Resources

Employers have a legal obligation to address bullying and harassment. Only after they are notified and fail to act can they be held liable in a lawsuit.

3. Consult an Employment Attorney

An experienced employment lawyer can:

• Evaluate whether your situation qualifies as illegal discrimination or harassment.
• Advise on how to respond at work.
• Aggressively pursue legal action if necessary.

Employers may be less willing to compromise or take responsibility when facing an attorney who can enforce consequences in court.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Workplace Bullying

Q1: Is workplace bullying illegal in New Jersey?

A1: Not all workplace bullying is illegal. It becomes illegal if it is based on your membership in a protected class, such as race, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or age. Discriminatory bullying may give rise to a harassment or discrimination lawsuit.

Q2: Can a single incident of bullying be considered harassment?

A2: Yes. While harassment is often ongoing, a single severe incident—such as an extreme slur or discriminatory act—can be enough to create a hostile work environment and support a legal claim.

Q3: What should I do if I am being bullied at work?

A3: Document all incidents, report the behavior to management or human resources, and contact an experienced employment attorney. Taking these steps helps protect your rights and strengthens any potential legal case.

Q4: Can I sue for emotional distress caused by workplace bullying?

A4: It is possible, but the conduct must be extremely severe and outrageous. Ordinary workplace bullying usually does not meet the legal standard for intentional infliction of emotional distress.

Contact the Cherry Hill Employment Lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. Today

If you are facing illegal conduct at work, the Cherry Hill employment lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. can help. We assist clients in determining whether they have a potential case for workplace discrimination, harassment, or other illegal actions. Take the first step toward justice: call us at 215-569-1999 or schedule a free consultation online. We are located in Philadelphia and Pennsauken, New Jersey and serve clients across Pennsylvania and New Jersey.