Sexual harassment in the workplace is a serious violation of federal law, yet it remains common across South Texas industries. If you have experienced sexual harassment at work, understanding your rights is the first step. Anderson Alexander A2X Law handles employment law cases for workers throughout South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley.

What Is Sexual Harassment Under Federal Law?

Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination. Courts recognize two primary types. Quid pro quo harassment occurs when a supervisor conditions employment benefits — a promotion, continued employment, or a raise — on an employee's submission to sexual advances. Hostile work environment harassment occurs when unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature is so severe or pervasive that it creates an abusive working environment. This can include sexual jokes, unwanted touching, explicit images, or repeated inappropriate comments. Both types are illegal and can form the basis for a legal claim.

Employer Liability for Sexual Harassment

Under Title VII, employers are strictly liable for supervisor harassment that results in a tangible employment action such as termination or demotion. For supervisor harassment that does not result in a tangible action, employers can defend themselves by showing they had an effective anti-harassment policy and the employee unreasonably failed to use it. For coworker harassment, the employer is liable if it knew or should have known about the harassment and failed to take appropriate corrective action. The strength of your employer's actual HR practices matters significantly to your case.

How to Document Workplace Harassment

Documentation is critical in sexual harassment cases. Keep a private record — not on a work computer — of each incident: the date, time, location, what was said or done, who was present, and how the conduct affected you. Save any emails, texts, or messages containing harassing content. Report the conduct through your employer's established procedures and keep copies of all reports filed and all responses received. This paper trail is essential if you later file a charge with the EEOC or pursue litigation.

The EEOC Complaint Process and Critical Deadlines

Before filing a sexual harassment lawsuit in federal court, you must first file a charge of discrimination with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. In Texas, the deadline to file an EEOC charge is 300 days from the date of the discriminatory act. Missing this deadline can permanently bar your claim. After filing, the EEOC will investigate and may attempt to mediate. If the EEOC closes your charge, it issues a right-to-sue letter, and you then have 90 days to file suit in federal court. These deadlines are firm, making early legal consultation critical.

Retaliation Protection and Why Attorneys Matter

Many employees navigate the EEOC process alone, not realizing that how they frame their charge can affect their ability to bring certain claims in court. An experienced employment attorney helps you preserve all claims and frame your charge correctly. You are also legally protected against retaliation: your employer cannot fire, demote, or punish you for reporting harassment or filing a charge. If retaliation occurs, it becomes an additional legal claim. Early legal guidance makes a significant difference in outcome.

Anderson Alexander A2X Law — South Texas Employment Advocates

Both Austin Anderson and Clif Alexander are Super Lawyers rated attorneys handling employment law cases across South Texas. A2X Law handles sexual harassment claims on a contingency fee basis — you pay no fee unless we win. Our attorneys will evaluate your situation, explain your options clearly, and fight for the outcome you deserve.

Free Consultation — Call (361) 452-1279

If you have experienced sexual harassment in your South Texas workplace, contact Anderson Alexander A2X Law today. The consultation is free and confidential. Call (361) 452-1279. Anderson Alexander PLLC · 101 N Shoreline Blvd, Suite 420, Corpus Christi TX 78401 · (361) 452-1279.