Sexual Harassment Case Studies

One of the most common case types we see involve claims sexual harassment in the workplace, or retaliation for reporting acts of harassment. Below are some examples of people we have helped resolve harassment claims by getting compensation for back wages and emotional distress.

Harassment and Retaliation

A female employee of a company who provided investigative services for insurance companies reported sexual harassment by her male co-workers.  This harassment included one c0-worker offering to help with a project as long as he got "a happy ending." Another described to her how he was sexually aroused by a road rage incident and masturbated as a result.  Finally, one of the supervisors explained to her that he viewed women as "canoes," which he could "tie up and let float" for a while before "taking them for a spin."

After she reported this behavior, no action was taken against any of these co-workers.  Further, she was blamed for somehow inviting or encouraging the behavior.  She was denied a transfer away from these individuals, and ultimately she was fired.

After bringing a complaint in the MCAD and then Massachusetts Superior Court, we were able to negotiate a settlement that compensated her for her experience.

Quid Pro Quo Harassment

A woman who worked in a dental practice was solicited to have an intimate relationship with her boss, the owner of the practice.  At various points she tried to end the relationship, but was consistently pressured by her boss to continue.  This continued even after she learned that her boss had contracted a sexually transmitted disease from another woman.

Finally, she found the courage to end the relationship, which ultimately required her to leave her job.  After filing a harassment charge with the MCAD and later removing the case to Superior Court, we were able to reach a favorable settlement and she was able to move on from a very difficult experience.

Failure to Investige Harassment Claim

Another woman who worked in a facility for developmentally delayed adults was subjected to persistent sexual remarks and innuendo by a male co-worker.  This was particularly distressing because the two of them were frequently in residences together without any other co-workers.  She finally reported the harassment.  Instead of a prompt, confidential investigation she was required to answer questions in the presence of her harasser, and left working in the same residential unit with him and nobody else despite her complaints.  She was then subject to unwarranted discipline and further harassment by her supervisor and co-workers. 

After commencing litigation, we obtained a favorable settlement for her.

How We Can Help

We can help you assess whether you have a harassment or retaliation claim and secure any compensation you are owed.  You can use the button below to schedule a call back from a member of our team, give us a call at  781-784-2322, or fill out our web form  to let us know a little more about your situation.

Need Help With a Sexual Harassment Problem?

Testimonials
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"SLN represented me in a complicated employment-related dispute. What could have been a prolonged nightmare for me was handled swiftly and skillfully, and with fairness and dignity."  Smita N.​

"Long overdue public words of gratitude for Emily and her associates' work on my behalf. They were so very respectful of me during an emotionally and financially ridden time -- and that mattered more than the positive result. May all clients have such advocates on their sides!" Donna B.

"After more than a year of discrimination and harassment in my previous position at a teaching hospital, I was finally at the point when I knew I needed help, otherwise I could break. Thus, I started to search Massachusetts Employment regulations, and one of my Google searches brought me to an advertisement for Emily E. Smith-Lee’s book “Rules of the Road. What You Need to Know About Employment Laws in Massachusetts.” It was my lucky day, and the start of my road out of the continued misery in my workplace... I would like sincerely to thank them both for their excellent job, and emotional support and encouragement. If you feel harassed, bullied, or discriminated against, Emily and Jack are the ones who will go out of their way to help you."  Valentina W.