Mercer County Sexual Harassment Lawyer – Standing Up for Employees in Trenton, Princeton, Hamilton, and Ewing
Every employee in Mercer County has the right to go to work without fear of harassment or intimidation. Yet, for too many people, the workplace becomes unsafe because of unwanted advances, inappropriate comments, or abuse of power. Sexual harassment is not just unfair—it’s illegal.
If you have been subjected to harassment in Trenton, Princeton, Hamilton, Ewing, or anywhere in Mercer County, you don’t have to face it alone. Charles Z. Schalk, a dedicated New Jersey employment lawyer, helps workers assert their rights and demand accountability from employers who allow harassment to happen.
What Workplace Sexual Harassment Looks Like
Not all harassment is obvious. Sometimes it is subtle and disguised as “jokes” or “office culture.” Other times, it is blatant and aggressive. Both are unlawful.
Examples of sexual harassment include:
- Unwelcome physical contact such as touching, grabbing, or cornering someone.
- Sexual or offensive jokes, comments, or remarks about appearance or gender.
- Requests for dates or sexual favors from a supervisor or coworker.
- Threats of job loss, demotion, or denial of promotions if you refuse advances.
- Persistent messages, images, or texts of a sexual nature.
- Work environments where sexual behavior is normalized or tolerated.
Two Main Categories
- Quid Pro Quo Harassment
Occurs when job benefits—like raises, promotions, or even keeping your position—are tied to sexual compliance. One incident can be enough for a valid claim. - Hostile Work Environment
Happens when the harassment is ongoing or severe enough to interfere with your ability to do your job. This could involve constant jokes, intimidation, or offensive workplace conduct.
Strong Protections Under New Jersey Law
New Jersey has some of the nation’s strongest worker protection laws. The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) prohibits sexual harassment and applies to employers of all sizes in Mercer County.
The LAD:
- Covers full-time, part-time, and even contract workers.
- Allows victims to seek compensation for financial losses and emotional harm.
- Permits claims against both employers and individual harassers.
- Outlaws retaliation for filing a complaint or lawsuit.
- Provides for punitive damages in extreme cases.
In addition, federal laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act protect employees from sexual harassment and workplace discrimination.
Employer Responsibilities in Mercer County
Employers are not just encouraged to act against harassment—they are required to. Businesses in Mercer County must:
- Implement clear anti-harassment policies.
- Provide training for supervisors and staff.
- Respond promptly and thoroughly to complaints.
- Take meaningful corrective action when harassment occurs.
When employers fail to create a safe workplace, they can be held legally responsible.
The Cost of Harassment for Victims
Sexual harassment is not just about uncomfortable moments—it can derail careers and affect lives in lasting ways. Victims often struggle with:
- Stress, anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
- Job loss or stalled career advancement.
- Reduced income and financial instability.
- Loss of self-confidence and professional reputation.
Taking action isn’t just about protecting yourself—it’s about sending a message that harassment will not be tolerated in Mercer County workplaces.
Retaliation: Another Form of Illegal Conduct
Many employees stay silent out of fear of retaliation. But punishing someone for reporting harassment is also illegal. Retaliation can take the form of:
- Firing or demotion.
- Cutting hours or reducing pay.
- Reassigning to less desirable shifts or departments.
- Negative performance reviews not based on actual work.
If you have experienced retaliation in Mercer County after reporting harassment, you may be entitled to additional compensation.
Why Choose Charles Z. Schalk?
- Mercer County focus: Deep understanding of the courts, employers, and industries in Trenton, Princeton, Hamilton, and surrounding areas.
- Experience: Years of practice handling complex employment law cases in New Jersey.
- Compassionate approach: Treats every client with respect and provides clear guidance during a difficult time.
- Aggressive advocacy: Fearlessly stands up to employers, whether in negotiation or in court.
- Proven results: Track record of securing meaningful settlements and verdicts for workers.
Steps to Take if You’re Facing Harassment
- Write everything down – Keep a record of incidents, dates, times, and witnesses.
- Save evidence – Hold onto emails, texts, or messages that support your case.
- Report it internally (if safe) – Notify HR or a supervisor, and keep a copy of your complaint.
- Do not resign without advice – Leaving may affect your rights; consult an attorney first.
- Call a Mercer County sexual harassment lawyer – Early guidance helps protect your claim.
Your Legal Options in Mercer County
Victims of workplace harassment may pursue relief through:
- New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR)
- Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
- Mercer County Superior Court
Depending on your situation, you may recover:
- Lost wages and benefits.
- Compensation for emotional distress.
- Punitive damages against wrongdoers.
- Coverage of attorney’s fees and legal costs.
Free Consultation – Confidential & No Obligation
Speaking up takes courage, but you don’t have to do it alone. Charles Z. Schalk offers confidential, no-cost consultations to employees across Mercer County.
You’ll receive:
- A private space to share your experience.
- A clear explanation of your rights.
- Honest advice about your options under New Jersey and federal law.
- Step-by-step guidance on the best path forward.
Contact a Mercer County Sexual Harassment Attorney Today
If you’ve been harassed at work in Trenton, Princeton, Hamilton, Ewing, or anywhere in Mercer County, you deserve justice. Take the first step toward reclaiming your dignity and protecting your career.
Call (908) 526-0707 or fill out our online form to schedule your free, confidential consultation. Your workplace should be safe. Your rights matter. Charles Z. Schalk is ready to fight for you.
“Mr. Schalk obviously obtained a very successful verdict in a very very difficult case. This Court had an opportunity to observe Mr. Schalk throughout the trial. He certainly performed at an extremely high level . . . And to obtain the verdict that he did is a rare case . . . I feel very strongly that Mr. Schalk’s work in this case was at a very high level, a superior level and that if the 100 percent enhancement of the lodestar is in the rare case this would be the rare case in which Mr. Schalk would be entitled to that.”*”
