What Evidence Is Needed to File a Workplace Harassment Claim?

Workplace harassment is a serious thing, and the Ohio courts are on your side if you’ve suffered from harassment. But because it is so serious, it’s important that there be evidence to demonstrate what happened and the extent of the harassment. A harassment lawyer in Columbus, OH can help you compile all the evidence that needed to prove your case.

Read more: What Evidence Is Needed to File a Workplace Harassment Claim?

From a Harassment Lawyer: What Evidence Is Needed to File a Columbus, OH Workplace Harassment Claim?

Documentation

Documentation is very important here. Make a record of every incident of harassment that you have experienced and include the date, time, location, and a full description of what happened. Try to do this as soon as possible after each incident so that your memory is fresh. If possible, note the exact words that were used, the context of the conversation, and note down any witnesses who may have been present. 

It also will help if you note any impact that the harassment had on you, like causing you emotional distress or making it difficult for you to work. Make sure that you keep this log on your personal computer or device so that if you’re fired you don’t lose access to it.

Communications

The harassment itself could be written, and if it is, any emails or text messages you have, memos or even post notes with threatening or harassing language could be used as evidence in your case. You also want to keep a copy of any responses that you sent that might show that you warned the harasser that their behavior was unwanted. 

If you have any communication with your workplace on the matter, such as a discussion with HR, be sure to keep this, too. Just be certain that as you collect this evidence you don’t violate any workplace policies or any privacy laws.

Witness Testimony

If anyone else saw the harassment, their testimony as a third-party witness can greatly benefit your claim. Whether this is a coworker, a supervisor, or even a customer or client, if they’re able to provide statements or testify about what they saw or heard, you want to get access to this. As soon as harassment takes place, try to write down the information for these witnesses and then contact them or have your lawyer do so to find out if they would be willing to testify on your behalf. 

Be aware that some people, particularly other employees, may be reluctant to say anything out of fear of retaliation. If that’s the case, your lawyer may be able to help here by explaining to them that retaliation is illegal and the steps they can take to protect themselves.

Performance Records and Employment Documents

Sometimes harassment has an impact on job performance, and sometimes rejecting a harasser’s advances can cause the harasser to lash out with demotions, pay cuts, or even by firing you. Any performance records that you can access will be helpful here to establish a pattern of your performance as well as show how the harassment may have affected you.

If you need to bring a harassment case here in Ohio, reach out to Nilges Draher Law Attorneys in Columbus, Cleveland, or North Canton today.

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