If you’ve been harassed or intimidated by someone of the same sex at work, you have the same legal rights as any other employee. Our New York sexual harassment lawyer will help you take action with discretion and respect.
Every year, thousands of New Yorkers face sexual harassment from someone of the same gender at work, yet many stay silent. They worry the law won’t protect them, fear they won’t be believed, or think their case “isn’t serious enough.” These fears are unfounded.
At Megan Thomas Law, we help employees across New York who have faced same-sex harassment get justice for their suffering. The law protects you from unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual acts, and other verbal or physical harassment that’s sexual in nature. It doesn’t matter what gender the harasser is, you’re still protected.
Same-sex sexual harassment happens in the workplace when both the harasser and the victim are the same gender. The behavior is unwanted, sexual in nature, and creates a hostile, offensive, or intimidating work environment.
Just like other forms of sexual harassment, it can be:
The law protects you from this behavior regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identity, or that of your harasser.
Same-sex harassment can take many forms:
These behaviors happen in regular offices and in remote work environments, where digital communication might make harassers feel bolder.
The Supreme Court ruled in Oncale v. Sundowner Offshore Services that laws against sexual harassment also cover same-sex situations.
In New York, employees have strong legal protection:
These protections apply to all employees, no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity. The harasser’s intentions or sexual orientation don’t matter, what matters is that their behavior was unwelcome.
Victims of same-sex workplace harassment often face special challenges:
At Megan Thomas Law, we get these challenges and provide a safe, supportive place for all clients to share their experiences without judgment.
Good records are key to winning sexual harassment claims:
Our strong litigation background means we’re prepared to take your case to trial if necessary to secure the justice you deserve.
Everyone deserves a workplace free from sexual harassment, no matter their gender or their harasser’s gender. The mental harm, career damage, and hurt dignity are just as real whether harassment comes from someone of the same or a different gender.
At Megan Thomas Law, we combine empathy from personal experience with legal expertise to fight for victims of same-sex sexual harassment throughout New York. We understand what you’re going through, and we’re ready to help you through the legal process with care and determination.
If you’ve experienced same-sex sexual harassment at work, contact Megan Thomas Law today for a private consultation. Together, we’ll create a plan to hold your employer accountable and get the money you deserve—while making workplaces safer for everyone.
Your rights don’t depend on your gender. We’re here to stand with you.
*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.
Yes. Sexual harassment can occur between individuals of any gender. The key issue is unwelcome sexual conduct, not the genders of the people involved. Both men and women can be victims or perpetrators of same-sex harassment.
Yes. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Oncale v. Sundowner Offshore Services, Inc. (1998) that same-sex sexual harassment is prohibited under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This means employers must prevent and address harassment regardless of the genders involved.
Same-sex sexual harassment can include:
The behavior must be severe or pervasive enough to create a hostile or intimidating work environment.
Yes. The harasser’s sexual orientation is irrelevant. Same-sex harassment can occur for many reasons — including hostility toward someone’s gender, perceived orientation, or efforts to assert dominance or control.
Depending on your case, you may be entitled to:
An attorney can evaluate your situation and determine potential remedies under federal or state law.