Derek Smith Law Group / Employment Law / Sexual Harassment / Sexual Harassment at Office Holiday Parties

Sexual Harassment at Office Holiday Parties

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Know Your Rights:
Types of Sexual Harassment Cases We Handle:

Office holiday parties or events are a time to celebrate accomplishments and connect with colleagues. However, the relaxed atmosphere, combined with alcohol, can sometimes lead to blurred boundaries and inappropriate behavior. Sexual harassment at these events is a serious issue and knowing your rights and options can help you stay prepared and protected.

Know Your Rights:

Sexual harassment is not limited to the office. It can occur at work-related events held offsite, such as restaurants, office holiday parties, hotels, corporate retreats, conventions, and virtual events. You are protected under federal and state laws against harassment and discrimination at all work events—whether they are on-site, off-site, or remote. Harassment based on race, gender, religion, or any protected class is illegal—even at holiday parties. You have the right to feel safe, respected, and valued in every workplace setting.

What Are Examples of Sexual Harassment at Workplace Events?

Sexual harassment includes any unwelcome sexual advances, comments, or actions that create an uncomfortable or hostile environment. When an employer, CEO, supervisor, manager, co-worker, or non-employee approaches an employee with unwanted physical contact or creates an uncomfortable and sexually charged environment at an office holiday party or high-profile corporate function, the employee has become a victim of sexual harassment at that event.

Whether the event is held at the office, a luxury venue, or another location, there is an expectation that no employee should be subject to such behavior.

Unfortunately, even in the age of the #MeToo movement, this fact is easily forgotten, and office holiday parties can quickly get out of hand. At holiday parties, corporate gatherings, high-profile office events, or company-sponsored celebrations, this could involve:

A supervisor attempting to kiss you under the mistletoe.
A co-worker making sexually suggestive jokes after being told to stop.
A manager offering you drinks to lower your defenses and then making unwanted advances.
A CEO threatening your job if you refuse to go on a date.
Co-workers showing explicit content and attempting to involve you.
Being touched without consent or assaulted by another attendee, including contractors.
Receiving inappropriate texts, photos, or emails during or after the event.

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During the time that I really needed a good counselor and I was approaching different attorneys unfortunately before they heard the problem they were demanding a retainer fee. A friend of mine introduced me to the Derek Smith Law Group and I was very fortunate to be answered by Matt Finkleberg who was very polite and understanding and gave me a lot of confidence without asking for any fees in f... Read Full Testimonial

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Matt Finkleberg is by far the best attorney I’ve ever hired!

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Matt Finkelberg is an outstanding attorney. It was a pleasure to have him represent me for my employment case. He was very easy to talk to. He was very supportive and knowledgeable throughout the whole process. He explained the entire process to me and kept me informed every step of the way. Matt fought diligently throughout my case to make sure my case was represented best. I am very gratef... Read Full Testimonial

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Matt Finkelberg is a top notch lawyer. He is very easy to talk to and truly cared about me as his client. He definitely earned my trust and confidence in his capabilities to represent me in the most professional respects. I give Matt and his firm the Derek Smith Law Group my highest recommendation to anyone who is seeking legal help for employee/employer related matters.

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It was a pleasure to have Casey represent and help me for my employment case. It was my first time needing an attorney, so I was a bit apprehensive at first – Casey took the time to answer all of my questions and fully explain everything to me, which really put me at ease. He was very attentive, supportive, and knowledgeable throughout the whole process – Casey would ask questions to ensure... Read Full Testimonial

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matt is an excellent attorney. he handled my case with the utmost care and highly exceeded all expectations. i could not recommend derek smith and esp. matt finkelberg enough

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Corey Kientz

You will be in great hands at this firm! Alyssa the managing paralegal is an absolute professional who excels at what she does. You can tell she truly cares about providing the best service possible, and is passionate about helping her clients. With Alyssa at the helm, this firm is a top-notch choice for anyone seeking assistance. Highly recommend!

Marissa Shander

Matt Finkelberg is Amazing and Devotional! It was a pleasure to have Matt represent me for my employment case. He was very attentive, supportive, and knowledgable throughout the whole process. Whenever I reached out he responded promptly which I greatly appreciated. Matt fought diligently and hard throughout my case to make sure my case was represented best. Thank you again Matt for everything.... Read Full Testimonial

jessica gonzalez

Olivia is absolutely outstanding! She understands the emotional side of your case while being able to find the legal aspects of holding the employer accountable for breaking the law! Made a really terrible situation a little easier by explaining everything and helping me get everything in order and in the right hands. I would not use anyone else! Call them for any sexual harassment case... You ... Read Full Testimonialwon't be disappointed! 10/10

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What to Do If You Were Harassed as an Employee at an Office Party—Your Legal Rights Explained

Experiencing harassment at a work event can be overwhelming, but you are not alone. Employees are protected under federal and state laws. Here are the steps to protect yourself and build your case:

Document the Incident: Write down the time, date, location, and specific details of what happened. Include the names of witnesses, if any.
Report It Promptly: Submit a written complaint to your HR department or management as soon as possible. However, if you feel HR is acting in favor of the company and not addressing your concerns, consult an attorney immediately to explore other legal options.
Preserve Evidence: Save emails, text messages, photos, or videos that can support your claim.
Consult an Attorney: Contact the experienced sexual harassment attorneys immediately to understand your rights and legal options before taking further action. Our attorneys can help you start the process and navigate the legal process for the best possible outcome.
Do Not Resign Immediately: Do not quit your job until you consult your attorney. Depending on the circumstances, quitting your job may harm your case.
Stand Up for Others: If you witnessed harassment, document the incident and offer support to the victim.

Important Deadlines:

Employees may have up to 300 days to file a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Under the New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL), employees have three years to take legal action.

Take Action Today: Harassment at workplace events is illegal, and employees deserve justice. Contact our experienced employment attorneys at 800-807-2209 for a free confidential consultation to protect your rights and hold your employer accountable. We represent clients nationwide, including in New York City, Philadelphia, Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and more.

Verdicts & Settlements

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$4.9 Million Settlement

Case Handled by The Derek Smith Law Group Attorney Catherine Lowry Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania The Derek Smith Law Group secured a $4.9 million settlement on behalf of multiple employees of Schuylkill County who came forward with allegations of sexual harassment,…

$1.5 Million Settlement

Case Handled by The Derek Smith Law Group Attorney Derek Smith Supreme Court of the State of New York, County…

$2.78 Million Jury Verdict

Case Handled by The Derek Smith Law Group Attorney Zachary Holzberg United States District Court, Eastern District of New York…

$4.050 Million Jury Verdict

Case Handled by The Derek Smith Law Group Attorney Derek Smith Supreme Court of the State of New York, County…

$1.6 Million Jury Verdict

Case Handled by The Derek Smith Law Group Attorney Derek Smith Supreme Court of the State of New York, Appellate…

Fired After Reporting Harassment at a Work Event? Employee Rights and Legal Options Explained!

Many employees wonder whether their jobs are at risk after speaking up about inappropriate behavior. If you are an employee who was fired after reporting harassment that occurred at a work event, you may be facing retaliation, which is illegal under federal and state laws.

Employers are prohibited from punishing employees for reporting harassment, whether it takes place in the office or at an off-site event like a holiday party, networking event, or team outing. Employees have the right to report inappropriate behavior without fear of losing their jobs or facing other forms of retaliation.

If you believe you were wrongfully terminated for speaking up, you may have grounds to take legal action. Do not wait to protect your rights. We provide a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and help you take the next steps. Call us today at 800-807-2209 to speak with an experienced employment attorney.

What Should Employers Do to Prevent Harassment at Office Parties?

Employers have a legal responsibility to create a safe and respectful environment at all work-sponsored events, including office parties. Employers must follow State’s mandatory sexual harassment training laws and clearly outline disciplinary actions for violations at company-sponsored events.

If you experienced harassment, it is important to know that employers are required to:

Establish and enforce clear guidelines for professional behavior and alcohol consumption before events.
Provide sexual harassment prevention training, as mandated by New York State law.
Actively monitor employee conduct during events to address inappropriate behavior immediately.
Communicate a transparent process for reporting complaints and ensure employees know how to seek help.
Send reminders about maintaining professionalism and respecting boundaries at all gatherings.
Take swift and appropriate disciplinary action against those who violate policies.

If your employer failed to meet these responsibilities and you faced harassment at office event, you may have grounds to take legal action. Speak with an experienced employment attorney to protect your rights.

Harassed at an Office Party? Call Derek Smith Law Group at (800) 807-2209 for a Free Consultation!

If you are an employee who experienced sexual harassment at an office party, you have legal rights and options. The experienced attorneys at Derek Smith Law Group, established in 1995, have recovered over $400 million for clients facing harassment and workplace discrimination. We proudly serve clients nationwide, including major cities like New York City, Philadelphia, Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and more, offering compassionate and effective legal representation.

We Offer:

Free, confidential consultations to discuss your case.
No upfront fees—you only pay if we win.
Extensive legal experience from attorneys focused on workplace harassment claims.
Take Action to Protect Your Rights

Sexual harassment at office parties should never be ignored. You deserve justice and a safe work environment. Call the Derek Smith Law Group today at (800) 807-2209 for a free consultation. Let us help you fight for your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does harassment at a holiday party count as workplace harassment?

Yes. Company-sponsored events are considered an extension of the workplace, and harassment during these events is covered under workplace harassment laws. Employers are responsible for maintaining a harassment-free environment even outside the physical office space.

Can I report harassment that occurred off-site?

Yes. Employers are still liable for harassment that occurs at work-related events, even if they are held off-site. This includes venues such as banquet halls, restaurants, or conference spaces.

How much time do I have to file a claim for harassment?

The amount of time you have to file a claim for harassment depends on both federal and state laws. Under federal law, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) generally requires you to file a charge within 180 days of the harassment incident. However, this deadline extends to 300 days if your state has its own anti-discrimination laws, such as in New York, Florida, Pennsylvania, California, and Washington D.C. State laws may also provide longer filing deadlines and additional protections. For example, in New York, employees have up to three years to file a claim under the New York State Human Rights Law. Given these variations, it’s crucial to act quickly and consult with an experienced employment harassment lawyer to ensure your claim is filed on time and to protect your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your specific case.

What Evidence Do I Need for Sexual Harassment at an Office Party?

Save any relevant messages, emails, photos, videos, or witness statements that support your claim. Record the date, time, and location of the incident, along with any details of conversations or actions that occurred. Keep a written timeline of events and interactions leading up to and following the incident to establish patterns of behavior. If there are security cameras at the event venue, request access to footage that may support your case. Additionally, save any text messages, social media posts, or digital communications related to the incident as further evidence.

What should I do if I see someone else being harassed?

Support the victim by offering to document the incident and report it to HR immediately. An attorney would also suggest assisting the victim in filing a formal complaint to HR in writing to create a record of the incident. Encourage the individual to take action and let them know you are available to act as a witness if needed. Additionally, advise the victim to consult an attorney as soon as possible to understand their legal rights and deadlines for filing claims with authorities such as the EEOC or local human rights agencies.

Our Attorneys

Are You Sexually Harassed? Take Legal Action Right Now.

If you experience any form of sexual harassment, our expert legal team is here to help you fight back immediately with strength. Please call us at 8800.807.2209 or email derek@dereksmithlaw.com.

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