A hostile work environment claim requires showing conduct (based on a protected characteristic) that is severe or pervasive enough to alter the conditions of employment. We help clients across Pennsylvania and New Jersey document the pattern of conduct needed to meet that standard.
Lead attorney on every case we take, backed by a dedicated legal team you work with directly.
A single severe incident can sometimes be enough, but most hostile work environment claims are built on a pattern: repeated comments, a supervisor who looks the other way, or an HR process that goes nowhere. We help clients organize that pattern into a claim an employer's counsel can't dismiss as isolated incidents.
An employer's liability for a hostile work environment often depends on who created it. When a supervisor is responsible, the employer can generally be held liable unless it can show it exercised reasonable care to prevent and correct the conduct and the employee unreasonably failed to take advantage of that process. When the harassment comes from a coworker rather than a supervisor, liability typically requires showing the employer knew or should have known about the conduct and failed to respond appropriately. That distinction shapes what evidence matters most in building the claim.
Experienced Attorneys Fighting Harassment and Toxic Workplace Culture Across PA & NJ
At Freundlich & Littman, LLC, we understand that a hostile work environment can take a devastating toll on your mental health, job performance, and professional reputation. You should never have to endure constant harassment, intimidation, or discrimination in your workplace. If you are facing threats, slurs, or unfair treatment based on your race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or other protected characteristic, you may be entitled to compensation under both state and federal employment laws.
Our team has successfully represented thousands of workers in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Camden, Trenton, and beyond who were forced to navigate toxic workplaces. Whether your claim involves physical threats, racial hostility, sexual harassment, or targeted bullying, we are prepared to hold employers accountable and protect your rights.
Real-World Examples of Hostile Work Environment
- Racial slurs or epithets repeated by coworkers or supervisors
- Persistent sexual comments, unwanted touching, or explicit images
- Threatening or demeaning language directed at LGBTQ+ employees
- Repeated jokes, memes, or conversations that mock a religion
- Bullying or isolation based on disability, pregnancy, or national origin
- Retaliation or increased scrutiny after making a complaint
Legal Protections Against Workplace Harassment
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 – Covers discrimination and harassment based on race, religion, sex, and more
Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) – Covers all PA employers with 4+ employees
New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) – One of the broadest civil rights laws in the country
These laws make it illegal for employers to create or tolerate a hostile work environment. Employers are also prohibited from retaliating against you for reporting abuse or supporting another employee’s complaint.
Common Traits of Hostile Workplaces
From our case history and regional research, many valid claims involve:
- Repeated physical threats or implied violence
- Racial targeting , including graffiti, nicknames, and social exclusion
- Sexual harassment that’s normalized or ignored
- Disparate treatment for those in protected classes (e.g., only minorities written up for minor infractions)
- Failure by HR or management to take complaints seriously or take remedial action
What to Do If You’re in a Hostile Work Environment
- Document Everything – Save emails, screenshots, witness accounts, and record specific incidents.
- Report Internally – Use HR or management channels, preferably in writing.
- Seek Legal Help Quickly – Our attorneys can assess whether your case meets the legal standards and guide you through your options.
Our Legal Experience and Victories
We’ve recovered millions in compensation for clients facing:
- Racially abusive environments in corporate and industrial settings
- LGBTQ+ employees targeted by coworkers or management
- Victims of sexual assault or unwanted advances at work
- Retaliation for requesting accommodations or making internal complaints
Our attorneys have appeared in local and federal courts, representing employees from every background and level of employment. No matter the size or power of your employer, we are not afraid to fight for what’s right.
Potential Compensation
If your case is successful, you may be entitled to:
- Lost wages and benefits
- Reinstatement or front pay
- Emotional distress damages
- Punitive damages for willful misconduct
- Attorneys’ fees and court costs
Take the First Step Toward Justice
You shouldn’t have to suffer in silence. If you’re facing harassment, threats, or unfair treatment at work, reach out now. Your consultation is 100% confidential and free.
📞 Call Now: 215-545-8500 📨 Info@FandLLaw.com
We proudly serve clients in Philadelphia, Montgomery County, Bucks County, Camden, Trenton, Cherry Hill, and throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
