Sex & Gender Discrimination (Sexual Harassment)

Ottawa Employment Lawyers assisting with Workplace Sexual Harassment Claims including Sex & Gender Discrimination

Sex and gender-based discrimination at work not only has an adverse impact on a person’s career progression, but it is also a demoralizing experience, turning the workplace into an inhospitable and unsafe environment. In recent years, a brighter light has been shone on the issue of sexual harassment at work, however, people continue to face these issues every day. To make matters worse, there is often an imbalance of power between the parties involved, making a victim of discrimination or harassment feel as though they have few options for recourse.

The employment law team at Champ & Associates has been providing effective and sympathetic representation to employees facing workplace sexual harassment and discrimination for a number of years. They have in-depth familiarity with the ways in which employees, particularly employees in precarious roles, face mistreatment from individuals in positions of authority. They are fierce advocates for their clients, seeking the best path for resolution to ensure each client obtains the remedies they deserve.

What Forms Can Sexual Harassment Take at Work?

Sexual harassment can affect anyone, no matter their gender identity, age or role. Harassment can take many forms, from subtle to overt, including:

  • Unwanted physical touch;
  • Gender-based comments;
  • Sexual intimidation;
  • Sharing sexually provocative material or images; and
  • Behaviour or comments intended to reinforce traditional gender roles.

Associated Claims: Reprisal and Constructive Dismissal

In addition to a claim for sexual discrimination or harassment, employees may have other claims available to them depending on the circumstances. For example, an employer might take adverse action against an employee who makes a discrimination or harassment complaint, such as demotion or termination. This is called reprisal, and an employer can be held liable for this type of behaviour. An employer may even attempt to disguise the disciplinary action as an administrative matter, in an attempt to limit the employee’s options to challenge the action.

If an employer fails to take action to investigate or otherwise manage a complaint of harassment or discrimination, they may be contributing to the creation of a toxic workplace for the employee. This could potentially lead to a valid claim for constructive dismissal, which can occur in situations where an employer allows a work environment to become untenable, leaving the employee with little option other than to resign.

Champ & Associates: Ottawa Employment Lawyers for Effective and Empathetic Representation in Sexual Discrimination & Harassment Claims

The lawyers at Champ & Associates are exceptionally experienced in assisting clients at all levels of employment in both the public and private sector with claims of sex or gender discrimination, including sexual harassment. They are veterans in navigating both the provincial and federal human rights complaint systems, as well as litigating claims in civil court when necessary. They provide clients with an honest assessment of their matter and then develop a plan to secure the necessary remedies under the circumstances. To discuss your matter in confidence, please contact the firm by telephone at 613-237-4740 or reach out online.