02/11/2026
The 5th element of a sexual harassment claim is often where cases are won or lost: proving the employer knew (or should have known) about the harassment and failed to take prompt, corrective action.
You’ve probably heard the phrase “HR is not your friend.” I understand where that comes from. HR works for the company. But here’s the reality: if harassment is never reported internally, it becomes much harder to prove the employer had notice. And without notice, it becomes much harder to hold the employer legally responsible.
In many cases, reporting the harassment isn’t about trusting HR — it’s about creating documentation, creating notice, and protecting your legal claim. If the company knows and does nothing, or takes weak action that doesn’t stop the harassment, that’s when liability becomes much stronger.
Not reporting may feel safer in the moment, but legally, it can destroy an otherwise strong case.
If you’re dealing with sexual harassment at work, protect yourself and protect your claim.
If you’re in this situation, DM me. And as always, follow for more workplace tips!