New York Workplace Harassment Attorney

Protecting Your Rights in the New York Workplace

At Schwartz Perry & Heller LLP, we understand how challenging and distressing harassment at work can be. With over 100 years of collective experience, our team of highly skilled workplace harassment attorneys in New York is dedicated to vigorously defending your rights throughout the state’s dynamic employment landscape. As work harassment lawyers in New York, we provide every client with personalized, compassionate legal support, ensuring you receive the dignity and respect you deserve.

We recognize that New York City workplaces—from Wall Street offices to Brooklyn tech startups—present unique challenges for employees. Our experience covers industries and boroughs throughout New York City and the greater metropolitan area, so we understand the specific types of workplace harassment that are most prevalent in this region. Whether your employment dispute is primarily governed by city, state, or federal employment statutes, our legal team crafts strategies to maximize the broadest possible legal protections available for your situation.

New York's employment laws are complex and frequently changing, which is why hiring a dedicated team of workplace harassment lawyers in New York is essential. Our attorneys stay informed on recent court decisions, legislative updates, and regulatory developments to provide the most accurate and actionable advice for your concerns. We focus on crafting legal strategies that address the specific nuances of each case, reflecting our drive to not only meet but exceed your expectations in pursuing justice and fair outcomes.

To speak with a workplace New York harassment lawyer, call us at (646) 490-0221 or contact us online today. 

Understanding Workplace Harassment in New York

Workplace harassment in New York is strictly prohibited under federal and state statutes, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the New York State Human Rights Law, as well as city laws like the NYC Human Rights Law. Harassment includes unwanted remarks, threats, discriminatory behavior, or any conduct that fosters a hostile work environment. It is vital for every employee to know their rights and understand that robust legal protections are available to pursue justice and compensation.

In New York City, the NYC Human Rights Law offers expansive coverage for traditionally vulnerable groups. Characteristics like sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy, caregiver status, and more are protected against workplace harassment. Our attorneys continually monitor changes and emerging amendments to these regulations—leveraging both city and state laws to ensure your rights are safeguarded in all work environments throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, and beyond.

Harassment can emerge in traditional professional settings, restaurants, retail shops, medical facilities, education, and more. We regularly advise on subtle or indirect harassment, such as microaggressions or persistent exclusion from meetings or opportunities. Our goal as work harassment lawyers in New York is to empower you to recognize, record, and respond effectively to inappropriate conduct, helping you secure a safer and more supportive workplace for all New Yorkers.

Our firm considers education a critical part of our mission. We offer legal guidance well beyond case resolution—assessing your work environment for systemic risks, counseling on best practices for reporting, and creating legal strategies that protect both your professional and personal well-being. By conducting thorough case evaluations and offering strategic guidance, we drive positive changes in workplaces across New York and help create safer, more inclusive organizations.

What Constitutes Workplace Harassment?

• Verbal Abuse: Persistent scapegoating, insults, or derogatory remarks.
• Physical Threats or Intimidation: Actions that cause fear of harm or involve unwelcome physical contact.
• Sexual Harassment: Unwanted sexual advances or behavior that negatively affect your work environment.

Harassment can also involve conduct or comments directed at an employee due to race, religion, age, national origin, disability, or any other protected class under New York’s employment laws. Sometimes, actions occurring outside the office—such as business trips, company events, or virtual meetings—are actionable if they impact your workplace environment or job satisfaction. Our attorneys will help you assess the facts of your individual situation and determine whether you have a viable claim under New York or federal law.

It’s important to understand that workplace harassment is not limited to management or supervisors. Under New York law, conduct by coworkers, subordinates, clients, or third parties can also constitute actionable harassment. If you are unsure whether your experience rises to the level of actionable harassment, reach out to a qualified work harassment attorney in New York to review your options. Our lawyers support you through the reporting, investigation, and legal processes to protect both your rights and your professional reputation throughout New York.

Legal Recourse & Procedures for Work Harassment in New York

Pursuing a workplace harassment case in New York involves navigating strict procedures and complying with agency-specific requirements. Securing the support of an experienced workplace harassment attorney in New York significantly increases your chances of a favorable outcome. The attorneys at Schwartz Perry & Heller LLP offer step-by-step guidance, ensuring you understand whether to file with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the New York State Division of Human Rights (NYSDHR), or the NYC Commission on Human Rights, based on your specific circumstances.

When you move forward with a harassment claim, you may be required to first submit your complaint to the NYSDHR or NYC Commission on Human Rights, depending on where you work. These agencies strictly enforce their filing deadlines. Our team helps you meet all documentation requirements, prepare statements, and gather supporting evidence—eliminating errors and meeting every submission deadline so your claim is fully preserved.

What to Expect During Mediation & Administrative Processes

In New York, some agencies may require mediation, conciliation, or settlement talks before proceeding to litigation. Our lawyers are adept at handling all forms of alternative dispute resolution—from settlement negotiations in front of the NYC Commission on Human Rights to appearances at the New York County Supreme Court. Throughout, we prioritize your interests and strive to reach a fair outcome, while thoroughly preparing your case for a hearing or trial if necessary. Our comprehensive, evidence-driven approach puts you in the strongest possible position during every procedural phase.

Initiating a workplace harassment claim often involves extensive evidence—emails, documentation, witness statements, and more. We assist in gathering all relevant information, ensuring that communications with opposing parties are managed professionally, and helping you avoid unnecessary discomfort or stress. By managing the legal and procedural details, we allow you to focus on your well-being and career while we advocate for your rights under New York law.

Navigating New York Courts for Workplace Harassment Cases

The New York court system can seem overwhelming, but our firm brings a long track record of success handling employment law and harassment cases—including matters that have helped shape New York’s legal landscape. We represent clients before the Supreme Courts of all New York City boroughs and in federal courts in the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. Our litigation strategy is built on an in-depth understanding of procedural rules, local practice, and the unique dynamics of New York tribunals.

We stay current on all published amendments to workplace harassment statutes and key court decisions affecting employee rights in New York. Our attorneys actively cultivate positive relationships with judges, mediators, and members of the legal community, enabling us to anticipate challenges and tailor your case strategy accordingly. We pride ourselves on transparency at every step, explaining the process, clarifying expectations, and ensuring you feel informed and empowered throughout your legal journey.

The Schwartz Perry & Heller LLP Difference: Leading Work Harassment Attorneys in New York

What sets Schwartz Perry & Heller LLP apart among workplace harassment attorneys in New York is our enduring commitment to advancing fair and just workplaces. Our firm has played a foundational role in the evolution of New York employment law, leading public conversations and helping shape influential court decisions. Our attorneys contribute regularly to legal discourse and are viewed as trusted counselors for employees seeking justice against harassment and discrimination.

With deep roots in Manhattan and enduring relationships throughout the city and state, we bring together considerable experience, significant professional recognition, and a shared passion for protecting employees. Our lawyers participate in ongoing policy forums organized by the New York State and City Bar Associations, leveraging our collective knowledge to spot employment trends and develop actionable strategies. This ensures you always benefit from the most current and thoughtful representation available.

Our presence in New York’s diverse and constantly evolving professional community means we understand the needs of both employees and employers across industries. We extend our advocacy beyond litigation—helping businesses prevent harassment, educating about compliance, and actively working to foster workplace cultures where equity and safety are prioritized. By remaining on the forefront of legal advocacy, we deliver innovative, individualized solutions that have a lasting impact on our clients and the broader New York working community.

We are committed to staying ahead of legislative changes and are dedicated to ongoing professional education. This focus on continued legal development allows us to provide novel strategies and forward-looking solutions—reinforcing our long-standing reputation as leaders among work harassment attorneys in New York.

Our Proven Track Record in New York Workplace Harassment Cases

• Numerous substantial jury awards and groundbreaking case results.
• Membership in elite groups such as the Million Dollar Advocates Forum®.
• Featured regularly in Super Lawyers® for distinguished legal achievements.

These distinctions reinforce our enduring role in representing some of the most complex and precedent-setting work harassment cases across New York City and the state. Our efforts have contributed to employer policy changes, sector-wide training initiatives, and improved protections for New York workers. Clients choose us not just for our experience in the courtroom, but because we consistently deliver creative, robust advocacy intended to better workers’ lives and the legal system as a whole.

Our legal results are frequently cited in legal publications and by courts as significant for the advancement of employee rights in New York. By supporting both individuals and the wider working community, our attorneys have helped establish legal precedents that now protect thousands of New Yorkers in workplaces throughout the five boroughs. This legacy of success positions us as a leading choice for anyone seeking a knowledgeable and strategic work harassment attorney in New York.

To speak with a workplace New York harassment lawyer, call us at (646) 490-0221 or contact us online today. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Workplace Harassment in New York

What Should I Do If I Experience Harassment at Work?

If you are experiencing harassment at work, begin by carefully documenting every incident, noting dates, times, witnesses, and details of what occurred. Report workplace harassment to your human resources department or a manager in writing to create an official record. Then contact a workplace harassment attorney in New York to understand your options, next steps, and how to ensure your rights are protected under state and city law. Our work harassment lawyers in New York guide you through reporting, investigation, and legal filings—all with your privacy, safety, and career advancement as priorities.

Keep a consistent, detailed record of each incident of harassment, ensuring to gather any supporting emails, text messages, or digital communications. If coworkers witnessed any incidents, ask for their support or written confirmation. Our attorneys will help you compile and organize your documentation, maximizing your chance for a successful claim and minimizing risks throughout the legal process.

Can I File an Anonymous Workplace Harassment Complaint in New York?

You have the option to file an anonymous workplace harassment complaint in New York, but anonymity can limit an employer’s ability to fully investigate your claim. Confidentiality during initial intake is sometimes possible, but if the process moves forward, your identity may be revealed for a comprehensive investigation. Consulting an experienced work harassment attorney in New York helps you weigh the pros and cons of filing anonymously or confidentially, and allows you to proceed knowing your interests are protected by advocates who understand both the legal process and your personal concerns.

While maintaining anonymity can initially provide peace of mind, it is also important to understand the investigative limitations. Our attorneys are adept at handling delicate matters discreetly and will discuss all available options for anonymity, confidentiality, and legal protection. Throughout the process, we prioritize your safety and ensure your rights are advanced in tandem with your privacy.

What Compensation Can I Receive from a Workplace Harassment Case in New York?

Successful workplace harassment claims in New York may result in compensation for lost wages, benefits, front pay, reinstatement, emotional distress damages, attorney’s fees, and punitive damages (in some cases). Our workplace harassment lawyers in New York will help you understand what remedies may be available under state and city law, including outcomes that can improve your workplace—for example, court-mandated policy changes or requirements for additional employee training to prevent further harassment.

Beyond monetary compensation, our firm pursues a tailored legal strategy designed to address both immediate losses and future job security. We advocate for outcomes that may include reinstatement, policy reforms, and preventive measures within your company—securing long-term benefits for you and positive changes for your colleagues as well.

Do I Need to Quit My Job to File a Workplace Harassment Lawsuit?

No, you do not need to quit your job to file a workplace harassment lawsuit in New York. New York and federal anti-retaliation laws protect you from adverse employment actions when you report harassment or participate in an investigation. Consulting a work harassment lawyer in New York means you can continue working with confidence. Our attorneys help you monitor your workplace for any signs of retaliation and will intervene immediately if your rights are threatened during or after your legal action.

Remaining employed can be stressful after reporting harassment, but your attorney will outline a clear action plan, provide ongoing legal support, and respond promptly to any retaliatory acts—allowing you to maintain your career trajectory while asserting your legal rights.

Take Action Now to Protect Your Rights with a Workplace Harassment Attorney in New York

If you are facing workplace harassment, acting quickly is essential to safeguard your rights and pursue every available remedy. Our team at Schwartz Perry & Heller LLP is prepared to provide a no-risk, confidential consultation to discuss your options. As leading workplace harassment attorneys in New York, we prioritize your peace of mind and well-being, ensuring you are supported throughout every step of your legal process—from initial reporting to final resolution.

No matter where you work in New York City or the greater metropolitan region—Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, or Staten Island—you will receive strategic, individualized support from a law firm with a proven record in New York harassment law. If you have questions, are hesitant to alert your employer, or are unsure of your eligibility, reach out as soon as possible. Contacting a workplace harassment lawyer in New York early on expands your options and enhances the likelihood of a swift, favorable resolution.

Deadlines for reporting work harassment in New York can be tight, and agency or court processes can be unforgiving. Our attorneys guide you through all notice requirements, file timely complaints, and advocate tirelessly on your behalf. Take the first step toward reclaiming a respectful and inclusive workplace—we are dedicated to pursuing your best interests and a brighter future for New York employees.

To speak with a workplace New York harassment lawyer, call us at (646) 490-0221 or contact us online today.