Sexual Harassment Representation And Employer Defense In Columbus, Ohio
Schottenstein Legal Services Co., LPA, provides sexual harassment legal representation for employees and comprehensive defense services for business owners in Columbus and throughout Ohio. Our attorney, James Schottenstein, handles complex employment litigation and employer risk management directly, giving clients boutique-level service and direct access to counsel.
Understanding Sexual Harassment Under Ohio And Federal Law
Sexual harassment in the workplace violates federal law under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and Ohio law under Chapter 4112 of the Ohio Revised Code. Sexual harassment falls into two distinct legal categories:
- Quid pro quo harassment: Occurs when a supervisor or authority figure conditions employment benefits, hiring, promotions or continued employment on submission to unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors.
- Hostile work environment: Occurs when unwelcome sexual conduct, comments or physical contact creates an intimidating, offensive or hostile work environment that interferes with an employee’s work performance.
Both forms of workplace harassment give rise to formal legal action against responsible parties under state and federal statutes. Civil claims against an employer are typically heard in the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas. Claims lodged against the state of Ohio or a state agency are heard in the Ohio Court of Claims. If your claim is filed under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, your case will be heard in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, Eastern Division.
Protections Against Unlawful Employer Retaliation
Employees who report sexual harassment or participate in an employment investigation have protected rights under Ohio law. Unlawful retaliation occurs when an employer takes adverse action against a worker for asserting their rights. Prohibited retaliatory actions include:
- Unjustified firing or wrongful termination
- Demotions, suspension or reduction in pay
- Involuntary transfer to less desirable roles or shifts
- Negative performance evaluations issued in response to a harassment complaint
Our attorney can advise you of immediate steps you can take if you have encountered employer retaliation after reporting sexual harassment.
Sexual Harassment Defense Strategies For Ohio Businesses
A sexual harassment claim threatens a company’s financial stability and corporate reputation. Schottenstein Legal Services Co., LPA, assists small and mid-sized business owners facing formal administrative charges before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC). We help employers handle internal workplace investigations, evaluate liability exposure under existing insurance policies, and defend against employment litigation. Our proactive approach focuses on limiting business disruption and resolving legal disputes efficiently while protecting company interests.
Our Attorney’s Legal Qualifications And Practice Authority
When facing high-stakes workplace disputes, working directly with a proven litigator makes a difference. Attorney Schottenstein provides dedicated representation backed by decades of legal leadership:
- 50-plus years of legal experience: Over five decades of legal practice serving business owners and individual clients in Columbus
- Columbus Bar Association: Active member of the Employment Law Committee
- Advanced tax and legal education: Holds a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from The Ohio State University and a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in taxation from New York University
- State bar admissions: Admitted to practice law in Ohio and Florida, and a member of the American Bar Association and the Ohio State Bar Association
- Recognized professional ratings: Peer-review rated as Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished for 2026 and recipient of the Avvo Client Choice Award in 2020
These background credentials reflect our commitment to delivering informed, high-level advocacy for every client we serve.
Begin Building Your Case Today With Schottenstein Legal Services Co., LPA
Whether you need tenacious litigation representation to enforce your rights as an employee or legal protection for your business, contact our attorney directly. Call our Columbus office today at 614-321-1226 or reach out online to discuss your situation.