Defending Yourself Against Sexual Harassment Charges

Issues concerning sexual harassment have been making headlines throughout the country over the past year, and Illinois is not immune. A recent controversy surrounding the state House of Representatives has prompted increased oversight and the resignation of a chief party official while having the potential to involve civil or criminal charges. Facing these types of allegations is a serious matter, and requires having an experienced, aggressive criminal defense attorneys on your side.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Rock Illinois House of Representatives

Sexual harassment allegations have resulted in the resignation of an aide to Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan and prompted an investigation by prosecutors into reported incidents involving others in the House of Representatives. According to a June 2018 report in the Chicago Tribune, investigators are focusing on allegations of sexism, harassment and bullying in the workplace perpetrated by Madigan’s long time chief of staff, Tim Mapes.

Maggie Hickey, a former federal prosecutor and inspector general under Republican Governor Bruce Rauner, is reviewing the case and also looking into how sexual harassment incidents among school students in the area have been responded to by district officials. This is among a series of controversies that continues to keep issues involving harassment and inappropriate behavior in the local and national spotlight.

Responding to Allegations of Sexual Harassment

While sexual harassment has long been a sensitive issue, the #MeToo movement, which originated in early 2018, seemed to open the floodgates regarding these types of allegations. Harassment may include making sexual jokes and innuendo, pressuring friends or coworkers for dates, or otherwise attempting to put pressure on another for sexual favors.

People of both genders are protected against sexual harassment by both state and federal law, and even the mere accusation of this type of behavior is likely to garner intense media attention, ruining your career, impacting your personal life, and potentially resulting in criminal charges and civil lawsuits. If you are facing accusations of sexual harassment, the following are ways in which you can protect yourself:

• Avoid discussing the matter with others, either in person or on social media.
• Do not attempt to contact or try to reason with your accuser.
• Keep records of all activities and conversations you have with others associated with your case.
• Make a list of people in your life who can act as character witnesses, such as friends, coworkers, and former employers.

Contact Our Will County Criminal Defense Attorneys Today

At Sabuco Beck, P.C.., we provide the aggressive legal representation you need when facing these types of serious charges. Contact our Will County criminal defense attorney immediately so we can begin strategizing the best course of action in your case.