Workplace Sexual Assault Lawyer NYC

Sexual assault at work is a serious crime — and a severe violation of your civil and workplace rights. If someone at your job touched you without consent, forced sexual contact on you, or threatened you into a sexual act, you have legal options. A workplace sexual assault lawyer in NYC can help you understand your options, protect you from retaliation, and fight for justice on your behalf.

At Rissmiller PLLC, we represent survivors across New York City. We know this is one of the hardest things you’ll ever face. Our job is to stand beside you, protect your rights, and hold the people who harmed you — and the employers who enabled them — accountable.

What Is Considered Workplace Sexual Assault in New York?

Sexual assault at work covers a range of illegal acts. It goes beyond what many people think of as “harassment.” Under New York State and City Human Rights law, workplace sexual assault includes:

• Unwanted touching or groping, even over clothing
• Forced or coerced sexual contact
• Sexual acts performed on you without consent
• Threats tied to sexual demands (quid pro quo)

The person who assaulted you could be a manager, a coworker, a client, or a vendor. No matter who committed the act — and what power they hold — you have the right to take legal action without fear of being fired.

Can I Sue My Employer for Sexual Assault?

Many survivors focus on the individual who hurt them. But your employer may also share legal responsibility. New York law requires employers to protect workers from sexual violence and severe sexual harassment on the job. When they fail — by ignoring HR complaints, keeping a known predator on staff, or creating a hostile work environment that allowed the assault to happen — they can be held financially accountable.

An experienced employment lawyer will investigate the full picture. This includes reviewing your employer’s policies, their response to any prior complaints, and whether they took the right steps after learning of the assault. If they failed to provide a safe workplace, they may owe you significant financial compensation.

Civil Lawsuits vs. Criminal Charges

You may be wondering whether to report the assault to the police. That is your decision entirely. A criminal case and a civil lawsuit are two separate legal paths, and one does not require the other. You can pursue a civil claim regardless of whether criminal charges are filed.

A civil claim focuses on your financial and emotional recovery. Through a civil lawsuit, you can seek compensation for medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the lasting emotional toll the assault has caused. Your workplace sexual assault attorney at Rissmiller PLLC will guide you through which legal paths make sense for your specific situation.

What to Expect When You Hire Our NYC Sexual Assault Attorneys

Starting a legal case can feel overwhelming. Here is a clear, step-by-step look at what to expect when you hire our firm:

Step 1 — Free, confidential consultation

You share what happened. We listen without judgment. Everything you tell us stays private and protected by attorney-client privilege.

Step 2 — Case evaluation

We review the facts, identify who may be liable (including your employer), and explain your legal options clearly.

Step 3 — Filing your claim

Your workplace sexual assault attorney will handle all investigations, paperwork, deadlines, and legal filings so you can focus on your wellbeing and recovery.

Step 4 — Negotiation and litigation

Many cases resolve in a confidential settlement. When the other side refuses to offer fair compensation, we take it further. We are fully prepared to go to trial to secure the verdict you deserve.

Statute of Limitations for Workplace Sexual Assault in NY

New York has strict deadlines — called statutes of limitations — for filing workplace sexual assault claims. For recent assaults, you typically have three years from the date of the incident to file a civil lawsuit in New York under the New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL). Under CPLR 213-c, victims of certain severe sex offenses may have up to 20 years to file a claim against their attacker. Waiting too long can cost you your right to sue.

The sooner you speak with an employment lawyer, the stronger your case will be. Evidence fades. Witnesses move on. Acting promptly protects your rights.

Why Choose Rissmiller PLLC?

Our law firm takes a strategic, thorough approach to every case we handle. We never treat survivors like case numbers. We know that trust is earned, and we fiercely protect our clients.

We bring decades of experience, deep knowledge of NY employment law, and clear communication to your case. We explain your options in plain English so you are never left in the dark. As your workplace sexual assault lawyer, we fight for maximum financial accountability — from the individual who harmed you and any employer who failed to protect you.

Contact a NYC Workplace Sexual Assault Attorney Today

You do not have to face this alone. If you are ready to speak with a workplace sexual assault lawyer who will fight for you, contact Rissmiller PLLC today. Your consultation is confidential and comes with zero obligation. Get answers, compassionate representation, and a clear path forward.

Reach out now to schedule your confidential consultation.