If you are a teacher and you have been accused of sexual harassment, it is important that you take these allegations seriously. Sexual harassment claims can lead to legal and criminal penalties. There are federal, state and city laws that prohibit sexual harassment.
Examples Of Sexual Harassment
You may be accused by a student of expecting sexual favors in exchange for better grades. You may also be accused of creating a classroom environment in which students feel sexually harassed. Unwanted touching, comments or flirting can be a justification for a sexual harassment lawsuit. An example of a sexually charged comment is to refer to a student as a "slut."
Activities online can also be used as a reason for a harassment lawsuit. For example, teachers who rate students sexually online or who spread photos or videos of a student online are engaging in sexual harassment.
Whenever you engage in a behavior that you did not know was considered sexual harassment by someone else, be sure to apologize. Even if you believe you have done nothing wrong, apologizing can lead to the actions being less likely to be construed as sexual harassment.
Title IX Regulations
Since 1072, it has been illegal on the federal level to engage in sex discrimination in any educational institution that receives federal funding. Even when only one program receives assistance, sex discrimination is a federal offense. A school will typically have a Title IX officer who the student will coordinate to file a complaint with a relevant government agency.
Facing a Lawsuit
Another option your student has is to file a lawsuit against you or the school. If the student intends to sue the school, this will likely happen soon because there are time limits regarding when your student can sue. The limit can range from one to six years.
Why You Should Hire a Sexual Harassment Attorney
If you believe that you may be sued for sexual harassment, make sure to contact a sexual harassment attorney. If you have not done anything wrong, you will want to cooperate with the investigation. You will want your side of the story recorded. Also, you will need to gather a list of witnesses that can testify to the events as they actually occurred. Hiring an attorney is especially important if you believe that the investigation that is being conducted is flawed and won't clear you of false charges.
