Unwanted jokes, touches, or lingering stares may seem minor — until the pattern becomes impossible to ignore. If you’re reading this, you’ve already taken the critical first step by refusing to stay silent.
At Rissmiller PLLC, we understand the courage it takes to come forward. Attorney Alex Rissmiller leverages years of experience on both sides of employment litigation to anticipate employer tactics and safeguard your privacy, career, and future compensation.
5 Actionable Steps After Sexual Harassment in the NYC Workplace
1. Document Every Incident Immediately
- Record the date, time, location, and people involved;
- Describe exactly what was said or done;
- Save emails, texts, voicemails, and chats; and
- Note emotional impact and work-performance effects.
Whether the conduct was overt or subtle, consistent or isolated, documentation is the first step in holding the harasser accountable. Comprehensive notes help prove liability, establish damages, and defeat an employer’s “he-said-she-said” defense.
Under the New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL) and the New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL), harassment does not need to be “severe or pervasive” to be actionable. Even a single incident altering your working conditions due to your sex can establish liability.
New York law no longer requires the conduct to be “severe or pervasive.” A single incident that alters your working conditions violates the NYSHRL
2. Report Sexual Harassment Through the Proper Channels
- Follow the reporting steps in your employee handbook;
- File a written complaint with HR, your manager, or the designated contact; and
- Keep copies of every complaint and response.
If your employer lacks clear reporting policies, notify a supervisor or company owner directly. The key is to put it in writing and save proof. Written notice triggers your employer’s legal duty to investigate. If they fail to act, your claim grows stronger.
3. Don’t Quit—Consult Counsel First
It’s tempting to walk away. For victims of sexual harassment who feel stress, fear, and a sense that they’re no longer safe at work, those reactions are valid. But quitting before speaking with a lawyer can weaken your position. An experienced attorney can help you determine your next move strategically rather than emotionally.
Although “constructive discharge” claims are recognized, you must demonstrate that workplace conditions became objectively intolerable. These cases are fact-intensive and typically require strong documentation and experienced legal guidance.
4. Understand That Retaliation Is Illegal
If your employer punishes you for reporting harassment, a “protected activity,” you have an additional legal claim for retaliation under both city, state, and federal law. Retaliation can include:
- Firing, demotion, or a reduction in pay;
- Reassignment to a less desirable position;
- Exclusion from meetings or opportunities; and
- Negative performance reviews after you file a complaint.
If you experience retaliation, you should immediately document it and inform your attorney.
5. Contact a New York Employment Attorney Who Focuses on Sexual Harassment
While HR and management might minimize or ignore your concerns, your lawyer works exclusively for you, not for the company’s image or bottom line.
Attorney Alex Rissmiller has spent years successfully advocating for clients in complex employment law cases, including sexual harassment, retaliation, wrongful termination, and unpaid wages. Before launching Rissmiller PLLC, he represented corporate employers; now, he uses that knowledge to protect workers. Whether you’re ready to sue or still unsure, he helps you understand your options clearly and confidentially.
Victim of Sexual Harassment? Understand Your Legal Options
Depending on your specific situation, your attorney may guide you through one or more of the following routes:
- Filing a complaint with the New York State Division of Human Rights,
- Filing a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), or
- Filing a lawsuit in state or federal court.
Each option has distinct procedural rules and deadlines, so strategic timing is critical. Your attorney can also help preserve key evidence, communicate with your employer on your behalf, and protect you against retaliation. With skilled legal counsel, you can maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.
Rissmiller PLLC Can Help You Take Control
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Rissmiller PLLC provides discreet, strategic representation to New York employees facing workplace sexual harassment. With experience on both sides of the courtroom, Alex Rissmiller and his team understand how companies operate and how to dismantle employer defenses. Whether you want a quiet settlement or are ready to go to trial, we’ll work to develop a personalized plan tailored to your needs.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
If you’re uncertain about your next steps after experiencing harassment at work, we’re here to help. Contact Rissmiller PLLC for a free consultation today. Let us review your story, explain your options, and help you regain control.
