Pennsylvania Hostile Workplace Attorney

Your Rights. Our Fight. Stand Up Against Workplace Hostility with Experienced Legal Support

Sweeney and Ryan

Ed Sweeney

Franny Ryan

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If you’re experiencing unfair treatment at work or employment discrimination, you don’t have to face it alone. At Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC, we specialize in representing employees who are affected by employer misconduct. Located in Exton, PA, we offer personalized legal services that can help you fight back and secure your rights.

Our seasoned attorneys understand the complexities of workplace hostility and are committed to protecting your rights under Pennsylvania law. We have a track record of success in handling cases involving harassment, unlawful discrimination, retaliation, and other forms of workplace misconduct. Whether it’s navigating the intricacies of employment law or representing you in court, our team is equipped with the knowledge and experience needed to achieve the best possible outcomes for your case.

At Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC, we take a client-focused approach, ensuring that your voice is heard and your concerns are addressed. We start with a comprehensive consultation to understand the nuances of your situation and craft a strategic plan tailored to your specific needs. Our goal is not just to resolve your current issues but to help you reclaim a workplace environment where you are respected and valued.

Don’t let workplace hostility undermine your well-being and professional life. Reach out to Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC, for compassionate and effective legal support. With our dedicated team by your side, you can confidently stand up against unfair treatment and work towards a solution that upholds your dignity and rights.

Why Choose Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC?

Choosing the right hostile work environment attorney to handle your case is crucial. At Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC, we offer a unique blend of legal experience and personalized attention that sets us apart from other law firms. Here are some reasons why you should consider us as your legal representation:

  • Locally-Based Experience: Situated in Chester County, PA, we understand the local laws and nuances that matter most to you.
  • Direct Partner Handling: Your case will be handled personally by either Ed Sweeney or Franny Ryan, both partners with prestigious educations and vast experience in employment law.
  • Unique Synergy: Our firm is unique because our partners, who are also married, bring a collaborative approach to each case, combining decades of plaintiffs’ work and corporate defense experience.

Our hostile work environment attorneys are not only skilled legal professionals but also compassionate individuals who care about your well-being. We take the time to listen and understand your concerns, providing you with personalized attention and support throughout the legal process.

Sweeney and Ryan

What is a Hostile Work Environment?

A hostile work environment is a workplace where an employee is subjected to discriminatory or harassing behavior that makes it difficult or impossible for them to perform their job duties. Such hostile behavior can come from a supervisor, co-worker, client, or even a customer. It often involves actions or comments that are based on the individual’s protected characteristics such as race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.

Some common examples of hostile work environments include:

  • Offensive language or jokes
  • Bullying and intimidation tactics
  • Unfair treatment or discrimination in terms of pay and promotions
  • Physical aggression or threats
  • Isolation and exclusion from social activities
  • Retaliation for reporting misconduct

If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe in your workplace due to these or any other actions, it’s important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible.

Federal Protections Against Hostile Work Environments

Federal laws exist to protect employees from discrimination and harassment in the workplace based on various protected characteristics. These include Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) also protects individuals over 40 years old from age discrimination.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life including employment. The Equal Pay Act (EPA) ensures that men and women receive equal pay for equal work performed under similar conditions.

Legal Protections against Hostile Work Environments in Pennsylvania

In addition to federal laws, Pennsylvania also has its own set of protections against workplace hostility. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, age over 40, disability, and other protected characteristics.

Pennsylvania also recognizes a cause of action for intentional infliction of emotional distress in the workplace. This means that if an employer engages in outrageous conduct or intentionally causes severe emotional distress to an employee, they can be held liable.

Under certain circumstances, employees may have a claim for constructive discharge in which they are forced to resign due to intolerable working conditions created by their employer.

Types of Harassment in the Workplace

Harassment in the workplace comes in many forms and can be perpetrated by anyone in a position of power or authority over an employee. It can include verbal, physical, or visual acts that create an uncomfortable or hostile environment for the victim.

Some common types of harassment include:

  • Verbal harassment: This includes insults, jokes, offensive remarks, and other derogatory language directed at an individual based on their protected characteristics.
  • Physical harassment: This involves any form of unwanted physical contact or intimidation tactics such as blocking someone’s path or invading their personal space.
  • Sexual harassment: This type of harassment can range from inappropriate comments to unwelcome sexual advances and requests for sexual favors. It also includes any type of unwanted physical contact or touching.

If you are experiencing any form of harassment in your workplace, it’s important to document the incidents and seek legal advice on how to address the situation.

Steps to Take if You’re Experiencing a Hostile Work Environment

If you believe that you are being subjected to a hostile work environment, it’s important to take the following steps:

  1. Document incidents: Keep a record of all incidents, including dates, times, and details of what occurred.
  2. Report the behavior: Inform your supervisor or Human Resources department about the issue and provide them with your documentation.
  3. Seek legal advice: Consult with an experienced lawyer who can assess your situation and advise you on the next steps.
  4. Follow through on any resolution efforts: If your employer takes corrective action, continue documenting any ongoing issues or improvements in the workplace.
  5. Consider filing a legal claim: If your employer fails to address the issue or retaliates against you for speaking up, consider filing a hostile work environment claim with the help of an experienced lawyer.
Your Rights.
Our Fight.

Get a Free Consultation with an Experienced Hostile Work Environment Lawyer

At Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC, we are committed to fighting for justice and fair treatment for all employees. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help protect your rights and dignity in the workplace. 

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