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Helping Sexual Assault Survivors Take Back Control
For many sexual assault survivors, time is divided in two: the Before and the After. Before, perhaps you were a trusted colleague who tackled projects head on. Now, you may feel isolated and alone, and betrayed not only by your attacker, but by your coworkers who aren’t sure where to look when you speak to them, or whose conversations grind to a halt when you walk by.
Sexual assault at work can rob you of your safety and security, and it can make you feel small. HarassmentHelp.org is here to help you take back control. While we primarily focus on sexual harassment at work, we want you to know that we also support survivors of workplace sexual assault. Let us help you find the resources and guidance you need, when you’re ready.
Who We Are – HarassmentHelp.org
HarassmentHelp.org is a project of Phillips & Associates PLLC, a law firm focused on workplace sexual harassment and employee rights. Created by award-winning sexual harassment lawyers, we provide confidential support and safeguard employees from retaliation to end harassment, recover compensation, and protect their careers.
What is Sexual Assault in the Workplace?
Workplace sexual assault involves unwanted or forced sexual contact that occurs within a work environment. This can include acts such as touching, grabbing, or, in the most severe cases, rape. Sexual assault can be perpetrated by anyone an individual interacts with at work, such as a coworker, supervisor, client, or customer.
How Workplace Sexual Assault Differs from Harassment
Both sexual harassment and sexual assault are unacceptable behaviors that warrant taking immediate action. Understanding the key differences between these behaviors will help you ensure you take the appropriate steps to address the situation.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment can take different forms, ranging from verbal to non-verbal to physical. Physical harassment may involve unwelcome touching, brushing up against someone, and is usually a repeated incident that creates a hostile or uncomfortable work environment. These incidents are generally handled through civil or workplace channels rather than the criminal justice system.
Sexual Assault
Sexual assault involves non-consensual physical acts that are forceful or violent. It may take the form of groping, grabbing, or, in severe cases, a sexual act. Sexual assault can result in criminal charges, prosecution, and jail time for the perpetrator. Survivors can also pursue civil lawsuits to seek compensation for the harm caused by the assault.
Examples of Sexual Assault at Work
Real-world examples include:
- Being groped or grabbed in a workspace, breakroom, or during a work meeting
- Being forced into a kiss or other sexual contact by a supervisor, coworker, or client
- Being physically cornered in hallways, elevators, or parking areas to initiate sexual activity
- Being restrained or touched inappropriately during work-related travel or events
Even one incident is a violation of your rights and can have lasting emotional impact. You deserve support, safety, and the option to take action to protect yourself.
Your Rights and Legal Protections If You Were Sexually Assaulted at Work
Sexual assault in the workplace is a serious violation, but you have rights. There are systems in place that are meant to help protect you and address the harm you’ve suffered. There are federal and state laws which protect you.
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits sexual assault in the workplace.
- Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requires employers to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards, including sexual assault.
- State and federal laws say sexual assault is a crime, regardless of where it happens. Employees have the right to report workplace assaults to law enforcement.
HarassmentHelp.org was founded by award-winning attorneys. We can direct you to an advocate who can help you take your next steps.
Get Trusted Support When You’re Ready to Take Action
The Impact of Sexual Assault in the Workplace
Sexual assault in the workplace can have wide-ranging and deeply personal effects, ranging from emotional to physical.
- Emotional Distress: anxiety, depression, fear, or feelings of isolation
- Disruption to Work Life: difficulty focusing, performance changes, or extended time off
- Physical Symptoms: sleep problems, fatigue, or panic responses
- Strained Relationships: difficulty maintaining relationships with others
- Career Setbacks: lost opportunities, demotions, or choosing to leave a job
- Loss of Trust: erosion of trust in colleagues, supervisors, or workplace systems
Whether you’re still processing what happened, trying to stay afloat throughout your day to day, or considering what steps to take next—support is available when and if you’re ready.
What To Do If You Experienced Sexual Assault at Work
If you were assaulted at work or during a work event, your safety and health come first. Consider seeking medical care as soon as possible. A trusted doctor can help you understand your options, including whether a forensic exam is right for you. You deserve care and support, whatever you decide.
After that, here are some steps you may find helpful:
Document What Happened
Write down what you remember as soon as you can—date, time, place, who was involved, and anything that happened before or after. Save texts, emails, or voicemails connected to the incident. Even if you’re not ready to take action, this record can help later.
Prioritize Your Safety
You are never required to confront the person who assaulted you. Protecting yourself is what matters. If you feel unsafe at work, consider whether a schedule change, a trusted ally, or another protective step could help you in the short term. If you’re unsure of what those next steps could be, the team at HarassmentHelp.org can help you understand your options.
Decide How (or If) You Want to Report
Some survivors choose to file a police report right away. Others don’t. Both choices are valid. You can also file a workplace report or an external complaint with an agency if the assault was tied to your employment. We can help you think through these options privately, at your pace.
Get Confidential Support
Even if you don’t plan to take legal action, you don’t have to carry this burden alone. Talking with a trauma-informed advocate can help you process what happened and plan your next steps safely.
Whatever you decide to do, you deserve to be heard and supported. HarassmentHelp.org is here if and when you’re ready to discuss your options.
The HarassmentHelp.org RGA Approach
We guide you through RGA — Rights, Guidance, and Action, a safe and supportive process designed to help you protect yourself, preserve your career, and stop the harassment.
- Rights – Know Your Protections
You deserve to feel safe at work. We’ll help you understand what behaviors cross the line, what your legal protections are, and how the law addresses sexual assault, harassment, and retaliation. - Guidance – Explore Your Options Safely
You don’t have to decide anything alone. We provide confidential, judgment-free support so you can think through medical, emotional, and legal options at your own pace. - Action – Take Steps With Full Support
We can help you create a plan that feels safe and manageable, and connect you with trusted sexual assault attorneys who can draft complaints, handle communication for you, or work toward a private resolution.
