In order to pursue a valid claim against an employer for a hostile work environment, a claimant will need to prove that intimidating, offensive, or abusive behavior occurred at a level that would be considered harassment or discrimination by a reasonable person. Anti-discrimination laws protect employees who are members of a protected class from discrimination at work based on race, gender, age, ethnicity, religion, disability, marital status, or sexual orientation.
Bullying in the workplace or creating a hostile work environment is not explicitly forbidden by any state or federal law; however, there are both state and federal laws in place that protect employees from harassment at work. Conduct or speech that is intentional, severe, recurrent, or which interferes with a person’s ability to perform his or her job could be considered intimidating and would constitute harassment.
If you are unsure whether or not your boss or coworkers’ behavior constitutes harassment, contact Philadelphia employment lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. for a free case evaluation. Our experienced discrimination lawyers can help you determine your best course of legal action. Call 215-569-1999 or contact us online today.
