Employers must avoid retaliation in the workplace

If there’s a problem in the workplace, it’s your employer’s job to do something about it. For instance, if there’s a customer who continually comes into the store and sexually harasses you, the manager or owner of the business should stop that person from coming into the store or take you out of harm’s way when the person is shopping with the location.

Just as it’s important for your employer to protect you against others, he or she should also take care not to retaliate in the case that you file a complaint. Retaliation is against federal law and can result in penalties for your employer.

What is retaliation?

Imagine that you report a coworker who is harassing you. You have evidence and go through the proper channels. The problem is that the coworker is your boss’s nephew. Instead of penalizing him, you find yourself called to his office and are berated about making up lies. Shortly after, you lose your job.

Situations like this are more common than you may think. Fortunately, you can file a claim against any employer who retaliates as a result of you filing a claim to obtain workers’ compensation or due to harassment or other problems in the workplace. Your employer is not allowed to treat you differently because you file a claim. If he or she does, then you may be in a position to file a lawsuit against your employer for retaliation.

Your attorney can help you review your case and determine if filing a claim is right for you. Take all evidence and information you have about the case when you go to your consultation.