Sexual Harassment Attorneys in D.C.

Every employee deserves a workplace that is safe, respectful, and free from sexual harassment. Unfortunately, far too many workers in Washington, D.C. experience unwanted sexual conduct, inappropriate comments, and retaliation for speaking up.

At The Mundaca Law Firm, we represent employees who have faced sexual harassment at work—from inappropriate jokes to coercive behavior by supervisors. We understand the emotional and professional toll this conduct takes, and we are here to help you assert your rights, protect your reputation, and seek justice under the law.

What Is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment is a form of unlawful discrimination based on sex. It can involve unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature or gender-based hostility, whether from supervisors, coworkers, clients, or others in the workplace.

There are two main types of sexual harassment:

1. Quid Pro Quo Harassment

This occurs when job benefits (like promotions or continued employment) are conditioned on sexual favors. For example:

  • A manager suggests that advancement depends on going on a date
  • An employee is threatened with termination after rejecting sexual advances

2. Hostile Work Environment

This arises when pervasive, unwelcome behavior creates an intimidating, offensive, or abusive atmosphere. Examples include:

  • Lewd comments or jokes
  • Unwanted touching
  • Display of sexual images
  • Repeated, inappropriate advances or messages
  • Gender-based slurs or offensive remarks

Sexual harassment can happen to anyone—regardless of gender or sexual orientation—and does not always involve physical contact.

Your Legal Protections in D.C.

Washington, D.C. provides strong protections for employees under both local and federal law:

D.C. Human Rights Act (DCHRA)

This law prohibits sexual harassment in the workplace and applies to employers of all sizes. It also bans retaliation against anyone who reports or opposes harassment.

Federal Civil Rights Law – Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Title VII also prohibits sexual harassment and protects workers from retaliation. It applies to employers with 15 or more employees and is enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Other potentially relevant federal protections include:

  • Equal Pay Act – in cases involving sex-based wage disparities
  • Title IX – for workers in educational institutions
  • LGBTQ+ protections – under federal law, sex discrimination includes discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity

Recognizing Workplace Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment can be subtle or overt, and often includes:

  • Suggestive or explicit jokes and language
  • Comments about appearance or body
  • Repeated invitations for dates or romantic contact
  • Staring, leering, or gestures
  • Physical contact without consent
  • Sharing inappropriate images or videos
  • Favoritism based on sexual relationships
  • Threats or punishment for resisting sexual advances

If this conduct is unwelcome, severe or pervasive, and affects your ability to do your job, it may violate the law.

What to Do If You’ve Been Harassed

If you’re experiencing sexual harassment at work, here are important steps to consider:

  1. Document Everything
     Save emails, messages, or notes about incidents. Keep a timeline of events and witnesses if possible.
  2. Report the Harassment (if safe)
     Use your employer’s internal complaint process or report the behavior to HR. If reporting feels unsafe or leads to retaliation, seek legal advice immediately.
  3. Don’t Ignore Retaliation
     If you’re demoted, disciplined, excluded, or fired after reporting harassment, you may have a separate legal claim for retaliation.
  4. Contact an Employment Lawyer
     A knowledgeable attorney can help you understand your options and protect your rights at every step.

At The Mundaca Law Firm, we guide clients through this process with discretion, compassion, and clarity.

How We Help Victims of Sexual Harassment

When you work with The Mundaca Law Firm, you get an experienced advocate who will stand by you. We help clients by:

  • Evaluating whether unlawful harassment has occurred
  • Filing administrative complaints with the EEOC or D.C. Office of Human Rights
  • Negotiating severance packages or settlements
  • Representing you in mediation or litigation
  • Protecting you from ongoing retaliation or mistreatment

We represent employees at all levels—from hourly workers to professionals and executives—and handle each case with the care and attention it deserves.

What You Can Recover

If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to:

  • Compensation for emotional distress and reputational harm
  • Lost wages or front pay
  • Reinstatement (if appropriate)
  • Attorneys’ fees and costs
  • Punitive damages (in particularly egregious cases)

Every case is different, and we tailor our strategy to your needs and goals—whether that means pursuing a quiet resolution or fighting for justice in court.

Take Back Your Power. Speak With a D.C. Harassment Attorney Today.

No one should feel unsafe or degraded at work. Whether you’re currently experiencing harassment or were forced out of a job because of it, you don’t have to navigate this alone.

At The Mundaca Law Firm, we stand with workers who have been silenced, mistreated, or retaliated against for asserting their dignity. We’re ready to help you explore your options and pursue accountability.

Contact Us Today for a Confidential Consultation

  • Phone: (202) 474-8500
  • Website: www.mundacalaw.com
  • Office: Washington, D.C.
  • Serving: Workers across all industries in the District of Columbia and surrounding areas

Let’s work together to protect your rights and your future.