You report a colleague for repeated inappropriate comments. Suddenly, your hours are cut, you're reassigned to a less desirable shift, or worse—you lose your job altogether. Or perhaps you spoke up about a manager's harassment, only to find yourself receiving negative performance reviews despite years of excellent feedback.
If you've been fired after reporting sexual harassment, you’re not alone. Retaliation for speaking out against misconduct is a violation of both federal and New York state laws. At Mizrahi Kroub LLP, we’ve helped clients recover over $1 billion while holding powerful corporations accountable. Our experienced New York employment lawyers are ready to fight for you and help you seek justice.
Know Your Rights: Laws Protecting Whistleblowers in New York
Several federal and state laws safeguard employees from retaliation after reporting sexual harassment or discrimination:
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Prohibits employers from punishing employees for reporting workplace harassment or participating in investigations.
- New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL): Provides strong protections against retaliation across New York State, ensuring employees can speak out without fear.
- New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL): Offers even broader protections for employees in NYC, prohibiting retaliation after reporting sexual harassment or other workplace violations.
- Whistleblower Protection Act: Shields employees who report violations of workplace rights, including harassment and discrimination claims.
If your employer retaliates against you after reporting harassment, these laws are designed to protect you—and a skilled employment lawyer can help you take action.
Why Documenting Your Case Matters
If you’ve been wrongfully terminated, documenting your experience can be the key to proving retaliation. Preserve:
- Details of the Harassment: Record dates, times, locations, and the behavior you experienced.
- Communication with HR or Management: Save copies of any complaints or reports made about the harassment.
- Employer’s Response: Keep records of any negative changes, such as demotions, pay reductions, or terminations that occurred after your report.
This documentation can serve as key evidence if your case escalates to legal action. An experienced New York employment lawyer can help you organize and present this information to strengthen your case.
Steps to Take After Being Fired for Reporting Sexual Harassment in New York
1. Seek Legal Guidance Immediately
The sooner you consult a New York employment lawyer, the stronger your case will be. Retaliation claims have strict legal deadlines, so acting quickly ensures you don’t miss the opportunity to hold your employer accountable.
2. Explore Your Legal Remedies
If you’ve been wrongfully terminated in New York, you may be entitled to:
- Reinstatement to Your Job
- Back Pay for Lost Wages
- Compensation for Emotional Distress
- Punitive Damages for Employer Misconduct
- An experienced lawyer can evaluate your situation and help you seek the maximum compensation you deserve.
3. File a Formal Complaint
Your attorney can assist you in filing a formal complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the New York State Division of Human Rights to ensure your case is properly documented and submitted on time.
4. Maintain Professionalism While Protecting Your Rights
Even after being wrongfully terminated, staying composed and documenting ongoing retaliation can further strengthen your case.
What Could Happen Without Skilled Legal Guidance?
Facing a retaliation case without experienced legal support can put your claim at risk. Employers often have legal teams dedicated to minimizing liability, making it harder to prove wrongful termination without proper representation. Without a knowledgeable employment lawyer:
- Evidence May Be Missed
- Filing Deadlines Could Be Missed
- You Might Settle for Less Compensation Than You Deserve
At Mizrahi Kroub LLP, we have the experience and resources to take on even the largest corporations. Our team has recovered over $1 billion for clients like you, and we’re committed to making sure your voice is heard.
Take the First Step Toward Justice – Call Mizrahi Kroub LLP Today
If you’ve been fired for reporting sexual harassment, you have the right to seek justice. Let our dedicated New York employment lawyers at Mizrahi Kroub LLP protect your rights and hold your employer accountable. We’re here to fight for you every step of the way, contact us today at (212) 595-6200 or fill out our online form.
