A recent study by the New York State Judicial Committee on Women in Courts examining the experience of women in the court system found that female attorneys continue to face sexual harassment and are more likely to have their credibility questioned. While the committee made recommendations for addressing these systemic problems, women who have been […]
A female prosecutor has filed a lawsuit against the Bronx District Attorney alleging sexual harassment, religious discrimination, and retaliation in the DA’s sex crimes unit. This case highlights the pervasiveness of sexual harassment, even in our hallowed halls of justice. While the outcome of the lawsuit remains uncertain, all employees in New York have a […]
The use of videoconferencing and other remote technologies has enabled businesses to adapt to their employees working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, the widespread use of these devices has opened the door to potential claims of sexual harassment arising from the virtual workplace. If you have been subjected to sexual […]
In February, Governor Murphy unveiled legislation to overhaul the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD). The bill was the result of a two-year review of the state’s discrimination laws by the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR). “It’s time for New Jersey to reject the norms of yesterday that overlooked workplace harassment and discrimination […]
Disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein has been sentenced to 23 years in prison for raping a woman and sexually assaulting another. During the trial, Weinstein’s lawyers attempted to argue that the sexual encounters were consensual. The jury didn’t buy it, however, finding that Weinstein abused his power and committed rape. “Weinstein verdict and sentencing confirm […]
The infamous Spotted Pig restaurant closed its doors in late January, following the recent settlement of sexual harassment claims by owner Kenneth Friedman. Under terms of the settlement with the New York State Attorney General, Friedman agreed to step down from operating the gastropub and pay an aggregate of $240,000 to 11 former employees. The […]
Victims of sexual assault and workplace sexual harassment in New York City have a new means of financial recovery as a result of a precedential appellate court ruling in December 2019. In Breest v. Haggis, the First Appellate Division of the State Supreme Court held that plaintiffs can use the Victims of Gender-Motivated Violence Protection […]
With the holiday season upon us, many companies will be hosting year-end parties, happy hours, and other events for their staff. While such activities typically happen after hours, it is crucial to remember that employees are still on the clock at seasonal gatherings, and the rules of conduct regarding discrimination and harassment during the workday […]
Recent amendments to the New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL) allow workers in the state to pursue legal action over sexual harassment without filing a workplace complaint beforehand. At the same time, filing a sexual harassment complaint at work could serve to support any future claims you make against your employer. Nonetheless, it is […]
In April 2018, lawmakers in New York enacted a measure that, among other things, barred the use of arbitration agreements in sexual discrimination and harassment claims. Now, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York has ruled that an agreement to arbitrate sexual harassment claims is enforceable. The Backdrop The SDNY ruling […]