I am a female and recently filed a harrassment complaint about a male co-worker. I have good reason to believe this isn't the first time someone has filed this type of complaint against him. I don't feel they are handling it appropriately as they are treating his offense against me like his first offense. Is there any way to look into this?
Optional Information: Loveland, Colorado Already Tried: I filed a formal complaint and management is saying there's not a whole lot they can do as there are no "witnesses" to what he said to me. Management says they will be doing 1 on 1 training with him so this doesn't happen in the future. Again, I have very strong reason and evidence to believe this is not his first offense.
CustomerYou have very good reason to feel the way you do. Harassers do not engage in their behavior one time.Read the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's website on sexual harassment. You can file a charge (that the company cannot ignore) with the EEOC:"When investigating allegations of sexual harassment, EEOC looks at the whole record: the circumstances, such as the nature of the sexual advances, and the context in which the alleged incidents occurred. A determination on the allegations is made from the facts on a case-by-case basis."NOTE the time limits! The limits are strictly enforced. You must file the charge within 180 days from the alleged offense. The EEOC will attempt fact finding and resolution between you and the employer. If it does not resolve you will be entitled to file a private civil law suit against the co-worker, and in some cases the company. If you file suit, you will "propound discovery" that means you will send them written questions and document demands. They must respond to them and produce what they have, including his prior discipline file. If they do not, or hide documents or impede the investigation, they can be held liable for such activities. The Colorado Bar Association has a find a lawyer service and a referral service where you can find a good employment lawyer in your area if you do not believe you are being treated fairly.
Experience: Over ten years of experience as a trial lawyer.
This information is very helpful! Thanks so much!
Not a problem, thank you for the accept. Good luck.