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Houston Sexual Abuse Lawyer
Supporting Victims of Harassment Across Texas
No one should have to endure sexual harassment at work or any other place. If you have been subjected to unwelcome sexual advances, inappropriate comments, or a hostile environment, a Houston sexual abuse lawyer can help you fight back and protect your rights. Joel A. Gordon & Associates is a law firm based in Houston that focuses on providing compassionate legal help for sexual harassment victims in Houston and throughout Texas.
We understand the trauma, stress, and embarrassment that sexual harassment causes. Our team is here to offer legal support for victims of sexual harassment and to guide you in seeking justice and compensation.
Supporting Victims of Harassment Across Texas Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination and it is against the law. It can happen to anyone, women, men, and people of all ages. This behavior includes any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that makes you feel unsafe, humiliated, or degraded. The impact on victims is profound. Many suffer emotional and psychological trauma such as anxiety, depression, and loss of self-esteem.
There is often a financial toll as well: some victims find their job performance suffers, they miss out on promotions, or they feel forced to leave a job to escape the harassment. We have seen how devastating these situations can be. Our firm is dedicated to supporting victims of harassment across Texas, from Houston to small towns, because everyone deserves a safe workplace and community.
You are not alone, thousands of people experience sexual harassment each year, but with the right legal help, you can hold the offenders accountable and reclaim your dignity.
Types of Sexual Harassment
Construction accidents can happen for many reasons, especially when safety rules are not followed or hazards are ignored. Some of the most common causes of construction site accidents include:
Quid Pro Quo Harassment
“Quid pro quo” is a Latin term meaning “something for something.” Quid pro quo sexual harassment happens when a person in authority demands sexual favors in exchange for job benefits or threatens punishment if you refuse. For example, a supervisor might promise you a promotion or raise only if you go on a date with them or tolerate their advances. Alternatively, they might imply you could be fired or given bad shifts if you don’t comply. This form of harassment is especially egregious because it ties your employment directly to submission to sexual demands. Quid pro quo harassment is explicitly illegal. You should never have to choose between your livelihood and your dignity. Our Houston Sexual Abuse Lawyers can help you hold perpetrators accountable for this kind of misconduct.
Unwanted Sexual Advances
Any unwanted sexual advances fall under sexual harassment. These advances are not “flattering” or “just flirting” when they are unwelcome. They are disrespectful and frightening. You have the right to have your “no” respected. Even if the harasser isn’t your boss, such conduct contributes to a hostile environment and is unlawful. Whether the person says they were “joking” or you’re “overreacting,” unwanted advances are serious and you have every right to object and take action.
Sexual Jokes or Materials
Sexual harassment is often verbal or visual. Many people experience harassment through inappropriate language or media in the workplace. This kind of behavior is often brushed off by harassers as “just joking” or teasing, but it is not acceptable in a professional or educational setting. It creates discomfort and humiliation. You should not have to be subjected to lewd content or conversations to keep your job or get your education. Such conduct is legally considered harassment when it’s severe or pervasive, and we can help you put a stop to it.
Retaliation for Reporting
Retaliation is a form of harassment that can occur after you’ve tried to do the right thing. It is illegal for an employer (or a school, or any authority figure) to punish you for reporting sexual harassment or for refusing sexual advances. Unfortunately, retaliation is common. Retaliation can be very frightening, it’s basically the harasser (or the employer) trying to silence you by harming your career or reputation. Know that the law in Texas and under federal statutes strictly forbids retaliation. If you experience any backlash for reporting harassment (or even for participating in someone else’s harassment investigation as a witness), you have grounds for a separate legal claim. Our Houston Sexual Abuse Lawyers will not only help you with the original harassment issue but also fight any retaliation aggressively. We work to protect your job and your rights when you have the courage to speak out.
Online Sexual Harassment
In the modern world, harassment isn’t limited to face-to-face interactions. Online sexual harassment has become more common. Even if online harassment occurs outside of work hours, it can create a hostile environment when it’s perpetrated by colleagues, superiors, fellow students, or others you have to interact with regularly. Cyber-harassment can be just as distressing as in-person harassment, and in some cases, it may violate specific policies or laws (for instance, explicit cyber-harassment can sometimes fall under stalking laws or other statutes). Our Houston Sexual Abuse Lawyers understand how to handle digital evidence we can preserve emails, texts, and social media posts to build your case. Don’t dismiss online misconduct as “not serious” if it contributes to your feeling of being unsafe or targeted, it matters. We will treat it seriously and include it in your harassment claim.
Client Testimonial: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I was very pleased with the outcome of my case. Joel Gordon was never hard to reach and always had an answer to any question. He did a good job at keeping you updated with anything that went on. He goes out of his way to make sure his client is satisfied. I would definitely recommend him to anyone who has been in an accident.
– Kimberly Colindres
Where Sexual Harassment Occurs
Sexual harassment can happen anywhere. While it’s often associated with the workplace, our firm has helped clients deal with harassment in a variety of environments. Here are some of the most common settings for sexual harassment and how the law can protect you in each:
Workplace
Harassment on the job is unfortunately very common. It can occur in any industry from corporate offices and hospitals to restaurants, retail stores, factories, and construction sites. You might be harassed by a supervisor, a co-worker, or even a customer or client. Employers have a legal duty to keep the workplace free from harassment. In Texas, workplace sexual harassment is explicitly prohibited by both federal law (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act) and state law. If you are harassed at work in Houston or anywhere in Texas, you can take action by reporting it to your employer (such as HR or a manager). If the employer fails to address the issue, you have the right to file a complaint with agencies like the EEOC and potentially sue the employer. Houston workplace harassment attorneys at our firm specialize in holding employers accountable for not protecting their employees.
Schools and Universities
Sexual harassment is also a serious issue in educational settings. This can involve a teacher or professor harassing a student, a student harassing another student, or even school staff experiencing harassment. Schools, colleges, and universities in Texas are bound by a federal law called Title IX, which requires educational institutions to take action against sexual harassment and assault. If you or your child faced harassment at a school or college, the school is required to investigate and stop the behavior once it’s reported. Sadly, some schools do not live up to these obligations. Our Houston Sexual Abuse Lawyers can help you navigate the Title IX complaint process and, if necessary, pursue legal action against a school that failed to protect a student. Whether it’s bullying with sexual overtones in a high school or harassment in a university program, students have rights and can seek justice.
Rental Housing
Harassment can even occur where you live. Landlord sexual harassment is a real and terrible problem for some tenants. This could be a landlord or apartment manager who makes unwanted advances toward a tenant, or who implies that sexual favors are expected in exchange for repairs, maintenance, or rent concessions. It might also be a landlord who peeps on tenants or creates an uncomfortable environment in the property. Such conduct is illegal under the federal Fair Housing Act and Texas fair housing laws. Landlords and property managers are not allowed to sexually harass tenants or create a hostile living environment. If you experience harassment in your apartment complex or rental home, you can report it to authorities and take legal action. Our firm can assist renters in filing complaints (for example, with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) and in suing landlords who abuse their power. You deserve to feel safe in your own home.
Public Places and Businesses
Sexual harassment can occur in public or semi-public places like stores, bars, public transit, gyms, or parks. For instance, an employee at a store might harass a customer, or a supervisor might harass staff in front of customers. If you were harassed as a customer at a business, the business could potentially be held liable under premises liability or other theories if they allowed an unsafe environment. If you were harassed by a co-worker or manager while out on a job site or a business trip, it is still workplace harassment even though it wasn’t at the office. In some cases, harassment by a stranger in a public place (like groping on a bus or catcalling on the street) might be handled as a criminal matter (e.g., assault or disorderly conduct) rather than a civil case. However, whenever harassment happens in a context where a company, school, or other organization has some control (like on their premises or by their personnel), there may be a civil claim. Our Houston Sexual Abuse Lawyers will listen to the facts of where your harassment occurred and advise you on the best path forward. We have the knowledge to tackle cases from workplace boardrooms to college campuses and beyond.
In short, sexual harassment is not confined to one type of place. If you are harassed be it at work, school, home, or elsewhere there are legal protections available. Joel A. Gordon & Associates extends our services throughout Texas, so no matter where in Texas the harassment occurred, we are ready to assist. We are familiar with the various laws and agencies that handle harassment in different settings, and we will guide you through the right channels for your situation.
Give our team a call today at 877-213-5004
What to Do if You Are a Victim of Sexual Harassment
Experiencing sexual harassment can be overwhelming and frightening. It’s hard to know what to do in the moment, especially if you’re worried about your job or safety. If you find yourself in this situation, here are some important steps to take:
Ensure Your Safety
Your safety comes first. If at any point the harassment escalates to physical assault or you feel in immediate danger, get to a safe location. Don’t hesitate to call 911 or law enforcement if you believe you are at risk of harm. In many cases of workplace harassment, there isn’t an immediate physical threat, but trust your instincts. If you ever feel unsafe, remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible.
Document Everything
Start keeping a detailed record of the harassment. Write down each incident as soon as you can. Note the date, time, location, and exactly what happened. Include the names of the harasser and any witnesses present. Save any evidence you have.
Report the Harassment
It’s important to report the harassment through the proper channels, especially in a workplace or school setting. Check your employee handbook or school policy to see who you should report to.
Seek Support and Take Care of Yourself
Going through sexual harassment is very stressful. It’s important to reach out for support so you don’t have to cope alone. Consider talking to a trusted friend or family member about what’s happening.
Consult an Experienced Houston Sexual Abuse Lawyer
As soon as you can, reach out to a qualified Houston Sexual Abuse Lawyer to discuss your situation. Navigating this alone is tough – an attorney will explain your rights and outline your options. When you speak with our Houston workplace harassment attorney, your consultation is confidential. We will listen to what happened, review your documentation, and advise you on the next steps. This might include filing a formal complaint with government agencies or preparing for a lawsuit.
Taking these steps can feel daunting, but they are crucial for your protection. By documenting what happened, officially reporting it, and then seeking legal guidance, you create a strong foundation for stopping the harassment and holding the wrongdoers accountable. We understand how difficult it is to take action in these situations. Our team will support you with care and professionalism through each step.
Reasons to choose us
How Our Houston Sexual Abuse Lawyers Can Help
Facing sexual harassment is daunting, but you do not have to face it alone. Our Houston sexual harassment attorneys are ready to stand in your corner. We combine legal expertise with genuine compassion for our clients. Here are several ways our team can assist you and why having Joel A. Gordon & Associates on your side makes a difference.
When you choose Joel A. Gordon & Associates, you are choosing a team that truly cares about clients. We treat you like family, fighting for you with the dedication and tenacity we would want for our own loved ones. Our firm has helped countless individuals in Houston and across Texas stand up to wrongdoing and secure justice. We are ready to do the same for you. Whether through settlement negotiations or a courtroom battle, we will use every tool at our disposal to achieve a positive outcome in your case.
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As Houston hostile work environment lawyers, we know what proof is needed to demonstrate a pattern of harassment or support a quid pro quo claim. Our legal team will conduct a comprehensive investigation into your case. We gather and preserve crucial evidence such as emails, text messages, internal HR reports, surveillance videos, and any other records that support your story. We will interview witnesses who saw or heard the harassment (co-workers, classmates, etc.), and we can obtain sworn statements if needed. By meticulously collecting evidence, we build a strong foundation for your case. Employers often have their own records (like prior complaints against the harasser or relevant HR files); we know how to obtain those through legal channels. Our goal is to uncover the truth and document it thoroughly, so when it’s time to negotiate or go to court, we have the facts firmly established.
We understand that discussing sexual harassment can be deeply personal and difficult. Our attorneys handle every case with the utmost confidentiality, sensitivity, and respect. When you come to us, you can feel safe sharing details that you might not have told anyone else. We create a supportive environment where your comfort is a priority. If you’re worried about privacy or retaliation, we take steps to protect your identity and information as much as possible during the legal process. For instance, in some situations, we might file certain motions to keep sensitive information sealed from public records. Rest assured, your case will be managed by caring professionals who truly understand what you’re going through. We’ve helped many clients in similar situations, so we know how to listen and how to address your concerns with empathy. Our firm’s culture is one of respect and dignity for our clients you will never be judged or blamed for what happened; we are here to support you.
The legal system can be intimidating if you’ve never dealt with it. One of our key roles is to guide you step-by-step and take the mystery out of the process. As experienced Houston sexual harassment attorneys, we will explain exactly what will happen when you file an EEOC charge, what to expect during an investigation, how a lawsuit works, and what outcomes are possible. We handle all the legal paperwork and communications on your behalf. This means drafting your complaints, responding to employer’s legal documents, and meeting all deadlines. If your case involves mediation or settlement discussions, we prepare you for those and speak for you, unless you want to speak for yourself (in which case, we stand by your side). In court, we are your voice making opening statements, questioning witnesses, and presenting evidence to the judge and jury. Every step of the way, we will keep you informed. You will know what’s happening in your case and can make informed decisions. We know that legal cases can take time, so we also give you realistic timelines and updates so you’re not left in the dark. Our goal is that you always feel empowered and aware of your rights and options. We are here to answer your questions whenever they arise. With our team by your side, you won’t have to guess what to do next we will lead the way.
One of the reasons victims seek legal help is to ensure that those responsible for the harassment face consequences. We are passionate about holding harassers and negligent employers accountable. What does this mean? If your employer ignored your complaints or failed to enforce anti-harassment policies, we will shine a light on that failure. We will use the evidence we gather to show that the company knew (or should have known) about the harassment and didn’t take proper action. By doing so, we strengthen your case and push the employer to do right by you. Sometimes simply getting a letter from an attorney causes an employer to finally address a situation – we consider that a win because your work environment might improve as a result of our involvement. If not, we proceed to formal legal actions. Accountability also means seeking outcomes beyond just money: we often demand that the employer implement better training, or discipline the harasser, or even institute new policies as part of a resolution. In cases involving individuals (like a landlord or a school official), holding them accountable could also include reporting them to professional boards or higher authorities. Our effort is not only to get justice for you but also to create changes that protect others in the future. We take harassment very seriously, and we won’t let employers sweep it under the rug. Through tough negotiation and, if needed, litigation, we make sure your voice is heard and that the wrongdoers answer for their actions.
While stopping the harassment and righting the wrong is the moral victory, we also aim to secure the financial compensation you deserve. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and litigators who know how to value a case and fight for the maximum compensation. We will calculate all your damages lost wages, emotional distress, etc. to come up with a fair demand. When dealing with employers or insurance companies, we don’t let them downplay your experience. If they try to claim “it was just a joke” or minimize your pain, we counter with evidence and legal arguments that underscore the seriousness of what you endured. Our team has a track record of successfully resolving cases with significant settlements that help our clients move forward with their lives. If your case goes to trial, we will present a compelling narrative to the jury about why you deserve full compensation. We often use expert witnesses to corroborate the extent of your losses. Every client’s case is unique, but our commitment to fighting for the best possible financial outcome is unwavering. Remember, obtaining compensation isn’t about getting a windfall it’s about justice and making up for the harm you suffered. Many clients use their compensation for things like counseling, career retraining, or simply to replace the income they lost. We want to make sure you have the resources you need to heal and rebuild.
We believe that cost should not be a barrier for victims seeking justice. Joel A. Gordon & Associates operates on a contingency fee basis for sexual harassment cases. This means you pay nothing upfront. Our firm only gets paid if we win your case or obtain a settlement for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing in attorney’s fees. This arrangement allows anyone, regardless of financial status, to access quality legal representation. We also offer a free initial consultation, so you can talk to us about your case at no cost. During that consultation, we will give you an honest evaluation of your case. If we take your case, it means we truly believe in it and are prepared to invest our time and resources to advocate for you. Our contingency model aligns our interests with yours we are motivated to get the best possible result because that’s the only way we get compensated for our work. More importantly, it takes the financial stress off of you during an already stressful time. You can focus on your well-being and let us handle the legal fight without worrying about hourly legal bills.
Sexual Harassment FAQs

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Under Texas law (and federal law), sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual conduct or behavior that either results in a hostile environment or is used as a condition of employment. This includes obvious actions like groping, inappropriate touching, or explicit sexual propositions. But it also includes verbal and non-physical actions: unwelcome sexual jokes, comments about someone’s body, requests for sexual favors, or sharing sexual images that make someone uncomfortable. The key is that the behavior is unwanted and either severe or pervasive enough that a reasonable person would find the environment intimidating, hostile, or abusive. Texas law specifically defines that employers commit an unlawful practice if they know (or should know) about harassment and fail to take immediate action to stop it. Importantly, harassment doesn’t have to cause a tangible injury or economic loss to be illegal even if you still have your job and haven’t lost pay, you can have a valid claim if the environment is hostile or if you had to endure harassment to keep your position. Additionally, anyone can be a victim of sexual harassment regardless of gender, and the harasser can be of the same or opposite sex. Texas recently strengthened its laws to ensure that even small businesses (with just one employee) are covered by harassment laws. In summary, if you are experiencing unwelcome sexual conduct in a work or academic setting that affects your well-being or employment, it likely qualifies as sexual harassment under the law.
Yes. If you reported sexual harassment to your employer for example, to a supervisor or the HR department and they ignored you or didn’t fix the problem, you absolutely have the right to take legal action. Employers have a legal obligation to address harassment once it’s reported. “Ignoring” a complaint could mean they did a sham investigation, or they did nothing at all, or they brushed it under the rug. When you bring a lawsuit, the fact that HR ignored your complaint actually can strengthen your case. It shows the employer was negligent or even willful in allowing a hostile environment to persist. Typically, the process would be: you file a charge with the EEOC or Texas Workforce Commission saying you were harassed and that the company failed to act. After that, you can sue the employer for the underlying harassment and for their failure to address it (which is basically a form of negligence or non-compliance with the law). In legal terms, if harassment by a co-worker was reported and the company ignored it, the company becomes liable for the harassment because they “knew or should have known” and didn’t intervene. If the harasser was your supervisor, and HR ignored you, the company can be directly liable under something called vicarious liability (employers are generally responsible for supervisor harassment, especially if it results in a negative job action against you). Our lawyers will make sure to document that you did report it (this is where your emails or notes about telling HR will be useful). We will then demonstrate how the company’s lack of action caused you further harm (continued harassment or the loss of your trust and comfort at work). Bottom line: You did the right thing by reporting. If the company failed you, the legal system provides a way to hold them accountable. We can sue for compensation for you and sometimes compel the company to change its HR practices as part of a resolution.
Retaliation is illegal. If you were retaliated against for complaining about sexual harassment (or even just for being a witness or supporting another victim’s complaint), you have strong legal protections. Retaliation can take many forms the most obvious is being fired. But even subtler punishments like demotion, pay cuts, hostile treatment by your supervisor, unwarranted negative evaluations, or being transferred to a less desirable position can count as retaliation. Under both federal law (Title VII) and Texas law, it is unlawful for employers to retaliate when an employee engages in what’s called “protected activity” (and reporting sexual harassment is protected activity).
Contact a Houston Sexual Abuse Lawyer Today
Joel A. Gordon & Associates will help you understand your rights and what alternatives you have in proceeding with a case
You don’t have to tolerate sexual harassment or wonder what to do next help is available. If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual harassment in Houston or anywhere in Texas, contact Joel A. Gordon & Associates today. Our team is ready to provide the legal support and guidance you need during this difficult time.
Take Action and Protect Your Rights: The sooner you speak with a knowledgeable Houston Sexual Abuse Lawyer, the sooner we can begin working on your behalf. Evidence can fade and deadlines can pass, so don’t delay in seeking advice. We offer a free, confidential consultation to evaluate your case. This initial meeting comes with no obligation. It’s an opportunity for you to understand your options and for us to hear your story. We will answer your questions and outline a plan to move forward. Even if you’re unsure about pursuing a case, talking with us can help you make an informed decision.
Compassionate Legal Help Across Texas: Sexual harassment is a deeply personal issue, and we approach every case with compassion and respect. When you contact us, you’ll find a caring listener on the other end. We know how hard it can be to make that first call or send that first email – but rest assured, we have handled many cases like yours and are sensitive to what you’re going through. Whether you’re in Houston, a surrounding community, or elsewhere in Texas, our firm is equipped to help. We proudly serve clients statewide, and our Houston Sexual Abuse Lawyers are familiar with Texas laws and local courts across the region.
Call or Message Us Today: Joel A. Gordon & Associates is here to fight for you. Reach out to a Houston sexual abuse lawyer who will put your interests first. Call us at 281-943-5555 to speak directly with our team. You can also contact us through our website or email – whichever method is most comfortable for you. Let us know that you need help with a sexual harassment issue, and we will promptly schedule your free consultation. We maintain strict confidentiality, so your information will be safe with us.
When you choose us, you gain a dedicated advocate who will stand up to harassers, employers, or any opposition on your behalf. We are committed to obtaining justice and fair compensation for every client. Our legal team will not rest until we have done everything possible to resolve your case in the best way for you.
You do not have to face this fight alone. With Joel A. Gordon & Associates by your side, you will have experienced, compassionate Houston Sexual Abuse Lawyers working to protect your rights and restore your peace of mind. Sexual harassment can derail your life, but with the right help, you can take back control. Contact our Houston sexual abuse lawyers today and take the first step towards healing and justice. We are ready to listen, ready to help, and ready to fight for you.