Time Is Critical: How Long Do You Have to File a Sexual Harassment Claim in NJ?

Experiencing sexual harassment at work can be emotionally devastating and professionally disruptive. While the trauma itself can take time to process, it’s important to understand that legal time limits apply to filing a claim. In New Jersey, the clock starts ticking the moment the harassment occurs or is discovered. Knowing your deadlines and rights is essential if you want to hold your employer accountable and protect your future.

At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we guide employees through the legal maze of filing sexual harassment claims—ensuring deadlines are met and your case is as strong as possible.

What Counts as Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment can take many forms, including:

• Unwanted sexual advances or touching

• Lewd comments, jokes, or emails

• Sexually explicit images displayed in the workplace

• Pressure for dates or sexual favors in exchange for promotions

• Retaliation for rejecting advances or reporting harassment

This behavior becomes illegal when it is unwelcome, severe, or pervasive enough to create a hostile or abusive work environment—or when enduring it becomes a condition of continued employment.

Deadlines to File a Sexual Harassment Claim in NJ

There are two primary legal avenues available in New Jersey to address sexual harassment: filing under state law or federal law. Each comes with its own set of deadlines.

• Under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD): You generally have two years from the date of the last harassing incident to file a lawsuit in state court.

• Under Federal Law (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act): You must first file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 300 days of the last act of harassment before proceeding with a federal lawsuit.

Missing these deadlines can mean permanently losing your right to take legal action. That’s why early consultation with an employment attorney is vital.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Time isn’t just a legal issue—it’s also a practical one. The sooner you seek legal counsel, the more likely you are to preserve crucial evidence such as emails, witness testimony, security footage, or internal complaint documents. Delays can weaken your case or allow employers to dispose of helpful records.

Additionally, quick action helps reduce ongoing harm to you and others in the workplace. Addressing harassment promptly can result in workplace policy changes or even the removal of the perpetrator.

How NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC Can Help

We understand how difficult it is to come forward with a sexual harassment claim. Our experienced team at NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC provides confidential, compassionate, and strategic legal support every step of the way. We help clients evaluate the strength of their claim, calculate filing deadlines, compile evidence, and navigate the legal system with clarity and confidence.

Whether your goal is a confidential settlement or public accountability, we will pursue the outcome that best serves your needs and protects your rights.

Your Voice Deserves to Be Heard

If you’ve experienced harassment, know this: you are not alone, and you are protected under the law. But your ability to act is governed by time-sensitive rules. Don’t wait until it’s too late to make your stand.

To learn more about deadlines, evidence, and legal strategy, visit our dedicated page on how long you have to file a sexual harassment claim in New Jersey.

Conclusion

Sexual harassment in the workplace is never acceptable—and you have the power to take action. By understanding the legal timelines and acting swiftly, you can protect your rights and help build safer work environments for others. NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC is here to help you every step of the way.

Contact Information

NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC

101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300

Roseland, NJ 07068

(973) 358-7027