What to Do When Your Employer Fails to Address Sexual Harassment
March 7, 2026
Facing sexual harassment at work is emotionally distressing and professionally disruptive. When an employer fails to respond appropriately to complaints, the situation can worsen, leaving employees unsure of what to do next. For workers in Cherry Hill and throughout New Jersey, understanding your rights under state and federal law is essential. Employers have a legal obligation to address harassment promptly and effectively.
What Counts as Sexual Harassment Under New Jersey Law?
Under New Jersey law, “sexual harassment” is “unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that affects an employee’s work environment.” This includes unwelcome advances, inappropriate comments, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical behavior of a sexual nature. Harassment may involve supervisors, co-workers, or even clients and vendors.
Sexual harassment generally falls into two categories. “Quid pro quo” harassment occurs when a supervisor conditions job benefits, such as promotions or continued employment, on submission to sexual conduct. A “hostile work environment” exists when unwelcome behavior is severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating or abusive workplace. Even without termination or demotion, repeated inappropriate conduct may violate New Jersey law.
What Should You Do First When Harassment Occurs?
Begin by documenting the behavior. Record dates, times, locations, what was said or done, and any witnesses. Save emails, text messages, or other communications that support your account. Detailed documentation can help establish patterns of conduct.
Next, report the harassment through your employer’s internal procedures, often through Human Resources or management. Submit your complaint in writing and keep copies for your records. Creating a clear record that you reported the issue is important if the employer fails to act.
What if Your Employer Ignores Your Complaint?
If your employer does not respond or dismisses your concerns, you may still have legal recourse. New Jersey law requires employers to take reasonable steps to prevent and correct harassment. An employer’s failure to act can create liability.
Follow up in writing and keep records of all communications. If the company continues to ignore the issue, you may need to pursue remedies outside the workplace.
Can You File a Claim With a Government Agency?
Yes. You may file a charge with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which enforces federal anti-discrimination laws. In New Jersey, you may also file a complaint with the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights. The Division investigates workplace harassment claims and enforces the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination. Keep in mind, there are deadlines for filing with these agencies, so timely action is important.
What Evidence Will Strengthen Your Claim?
Documentation is critical. Written records of incidents, copies of complaints submitted to your employer, and communications related to the harassment can support your claim. Witness statements may also be helpful. Showing that you followed internal reporting procedures but received no meaningful response can strengthen a case against an employer.
Our Cherry Hill Sexual Harassment Lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. Take Action When Employers Fail to Do So
When an employer fails to address sexual harassment, employees have rights under New Jersey law. Ignored complaints and inadequate investigations can expose employers to liability. Our Cherry Hill sexual harassment lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. can help you understand your legal options, evaluate your claim, and pursue appropriate action under state and federal law to protect your workplace rights. For a free consultation, call today at 215-569-1999 or contact us online. With office locations in Pennsauken, New Jersey, and Philadelphia, we proudly serve clients in the surrounding areas.
