If you’ve been harassed at work, you can file internally, with a state or federal agency, or through an attorney — and retaliation is illegal. Our New York sexual harassment lawyer will help you file the right way and protect your rights at every stage.
Sexual harassment in the workplace is not just uncomfortable, it’s illegal. If you’re experiencing inappropriate comments, unwelcome advances, or hostile behavior at work, you have the right to speak up and take action. At Megan Thomas Law, we help employees across New York understand their rights, file complaints, and pursue justice for the harm they’ve endured.
Whether you’re still working for your employer or have already left, it’s not too late to hold them accountable. Filing a complaint may feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. We’re here to walk you through each step,safely, confidently, and on your terms.
Under New York law, sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual behavior in the workplace. It doesn’t have to involve physical contact or overt threats and it doesn’t have to be “severe or pervasive.” If the behavior makes your work environment hostile, intimidating, or offensive, it may be grounds for a complaint.
Examples include:
Importantly, New York law does not require the harassment to be extreme or long-lasting — even one incident can be actionable if it rises above a trivial inconvenience.
Start by collecting as much evidence as you can:
This documentation can make a big difference later — even if you’re unsure about filing a formal complaint yet.
Most New York employers are required to have a written sexual harassment prevention policy and conduct annual training. This policy should include:
If your employer does not have a policy or training program, that could strengthen your legal case.
Before filing a government complaint or lawsuit, you may choose to report the harassment internally:
If you’re worried about retaliation, speak with a lawyer first. You are not required to file internally before taking legal action — but doing so can help prove your employer knew and failed to respond appropriately.
If the internal process does not resolve the issue or if you’re uncomfortable using it you can file a formal sexual harassment complaint with one of the following:
You can file with both agencies in many cases — and we’ll help you decide which makes the most sense for your goals.
Depending on the facts of your case, you may choose to file a lawsuit directly in New York State court. This can allow for:
At Megan Thomas Law, we help clients file state and federal claims based on their desired outcomes, available evidence, and personal comfort levels.
Retaliation is illegal. If you report sexual harassment and are then:
…you may have an entirely separate legal claim for retaliation.
New York law protects you even if your original harassment claim is not proven — as long as your complaint was made in good faith. We take retaliation seriously and will move quickly to protect your job, reputation, and peace of mind.
Here’s what makes New York one of the most protective states for workers:
If your complaint leads to a settlement or successful lawsuit, you may be entitled to:
Our goal is to pursue real accountability and meaningful results — not just a check, but a resolution that empowers you to move forward.
You should never have to sacrifice your dignity, job, or safety to earn a paycheck. If you’re considering filing a sexual harassment complaint at work, let Megan Thomas Law guide you through the process — clearly, confidentially, and with compassion.
We’ve helped workers across industries and job levels stand up to harassment and protect their futures. You don’t need to have all the answers right now — just take the first step and talk to someone who can help, as long as there are no Statute of Limitations Issues.
*The information provided in this post is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Viewing this post, commenting, or engaging with it does not create an attorney-client relationship.
No, but having a lawyer can make the process easier, safer, and more effective. We help protect your rights, prevent retaliation, and strengthen your claim with proper documentation and legal strategy.
Yes. Your immigration status does not prevent you from filing a sexual harassment claim. Your employer cannot threaten or retaliate against you based on your status.
If the conduct was connected to your job (e.g., a work-sponsored event, travel, or communication), it may still qualify as workplace harassment. Digital and off-site behavior counts.
You can still file a complaint or lawsuit. In fact, many workers take legal action after they leave a toxic environment. You typically have up to 3 years to act in New York.
You can often make initial reports confidentially, and we can help you weigh your options. If you proceed to litigation, some identifying information may be required — but we always prioritize your safety and comfort.
It depends on the agency or court process you pursue. Some complaints resolve in a few months through mediation or settlement, while others (especially lawsuits) may take a year or more. We’ll walk you through what to expect.
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