Workplace sexual harassment is not “just the way things are.” It’s illegal. No one in Alabama should have to choose between a paycheck and personal dignity.
At Beckum Law, we represent employees only in sexual harassment and hostile work environment cases throughout Birmingham, Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Huntsville, Montgomery, Mobile, Tuscaloosa, the Wiregrass, the Tennessee Valley, and all of Alabama. This is a core focus of our employment practice—not an afterthought.
With over 20 years of experience in employment litigation, Beckum Law helps Alabama workers who’ve been harassed, intimidated, or pushed out of their jobs take back power and hold employers accountable.
If you’re dealing with sexual harassment at work, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Call (205) 588-0699 or fill out our confidential online form to speak with an Alabama sexual harassment lawyer for employees.
What Counts as Sexual Harassment Under Alabama & Federal Law?
Alabama does not have its own standalone sexual harassment statute. Most workplace sexual harassment claims here are brought under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related federal laws.
Under federal law, sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination. It includes any unwelcome sexual conduct that affects:
- Your job (hiring, firing, promotions, shifts, pay), or
- Your work environment (making it intimidating, hostile, or abusive).
Harassment can be:
- Verbal – Comments about your body, sexual jokes, propositions
- Physical – Unwanted touching, hugging, kissing, blocking your path
- Visual/digital – Sexual texts, emails, memes, images, social media DMs
- Environmental – Sexualized workplace culture or tolerance of misconduct
Two Main Types of Sexual Harassment in Alabama
1. Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment
A supervisor or person with authority ties job benefits to sexual cooperation.
2. Hostile Work Environment
Harassment is severe or pervasive enough that it creates an abusive workplace.
Common Signs of Sexual Harassment in Alabama Workplaces
- Anxiety about going to work
- Harasser targets you privately
- HR ignores complaints
- Retaliation after rejecting advances
- Sudden changes in schedule, discipline, or treatment
- Co-workers warn you about a supervisor
Alabama Employees’ Rights: Who Is Covered?
Title VII applies to employers with 15 or more employees. Workers in smaller workplaces may still have claims under:
- Section 1981
- Alabama tort law (invasion of privacy, assault/battery, outrage, negligent supervision)
What To Do If You Are Being Sexually Harassed
1. Document everything.
2. Review your employer’s reporting policy.
3. Don’t quit without legal advice.
4. Contact an attorney early.
The EEOC Process & Deadlines in Alabama
Employees generally must file an EEOC charge within 180 days of the last incident. The EEOC may mediate, investigate, or issue a Right to Sue letter. Beckum Law handles the entire EEOC process for clients.
Compensation Available for Sexual Harassment
- Back pay
- Front pay
- Emotional distress damages
- Punitive damages
- Attorney’s fees
- Injunctive relief
- State-law damages (assault, battery, invasion of privacy, outrage)
How Beckum Law Is Different
- Employee-only representation
- Over 20 years of experience
- Alabama-focused practice
- Strategic use of federal and state law
- Trauma-informed approach
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I still have a case without witnesses?
A: Yes. Many cases rely on messages, documents, and testimony.
Q: What if the harassment happened outside work?
A: Off-site harassment connected to work can still be illegal.
Q: Can I be fired for reporting harassment?
A: Retaliation is illegal.
Q: What if I quit because it was too bad?
A: You may still have a constructive discharge claim.
Q: How much is my case worth?
A: Value depends on severity, employer size, evidence, and damages.
Speak With an Alabama Sexual Harassment Lawyer for Employees
You are not powerless. Beckum Law is here to protect your rights and fight for justice.
Call (205) 588-0699 or submit our confidential form today.