No one should have to endure a toxic work environment, yet workplace bullying is a growing issue that affects employees across industries. From verbal abuse to exclusion and retaliation, workplace bullying can make it impossible to do your job effectively.
If you are experiencing mistreatment, intimidation, or harassment at work, it is crucial to understand your legal rights. While not all bullying is illegal, certain behaviors violate corporate bullying laws and may qualify as workplace discrimination under employment law. Speaking with an attorney for workplace bullying can help you determine if you have a case and what steps you should take next.
What Is Workplace Bullying?
Workplace bullying includes repeated harmful actions by a coworker, manager, or even company policies that create an unfair, toxic, or hostile work environment. While some forms of bullying may not be explicitly illegal, certain actions cross the line into discrimination or retaliation, which are covered under state laws and employment law.
Common Forms of Workplace Bullying
- Verbal abuse – Insults, threats, or degrading comments
- Exclusion – Being left out of meetings or workplace activities
- Unreasonable workloads – Setting employees up for failure
- Retaliation – Punishing employees for reporting misconduct
- Public humiliation – Shaming or belittling an employee in front of others
- Micromanagement and sabotage – Undermining an employee’s success deliberately
If bullying is based on race, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, or another protected characteristic, it could be considered illegal harassment or discrimination.
When Does Workplace Bullying Become Illegal?
While workplace bullying is not always illegal, certain forms of mistreatment violate discrimination laws and employment protections. If your mistreatment is linked to a protected class, you may have grounds to file a complaint against your employer.
Laws That May Protect You
| Law | What It Covers |
| Title VII of the Civil Rights Act | Protects employees from discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or national origin |
| Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) | Protects workers with disabilities from workplace mistreatment |
| Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Guidelines | Outlines employer responsibilities for preventing harassment |
| State Laws | Some states have stronger protections against workplace bullying |
If bullying results in a hostile work environment, affects your employment opportunities, or leads to wrongful termination, you may need legal assistance from attorneys for bullying at workplace cases.
For more information on workplace harassment, visit the EEOC’s official guide.
Steps to Take If You’re Facing Workplace Bullying
If you believe you are experiencing workplace bullying, taking the following steps can help protect your rights and build your case.
1. Document the Bullying
Keeping detailed records is one of the most important steps. Your documentation should include:
Dates, times, and locations of incidents
Names of individuals involved
Details of what was said or done
Witness statements
Copies of emails, text messages, or performance reviews
2. Report the Issue to HR
Your human resources department should be the first place you turn to when facing workplace bullying. Submit a formal complaint in writing, clearly explaining:
- What has been happening
- How the bullying has impacted your work
- Any previous complaints or concerns raised
- Any requests for HR intervention
3. File a Complaint with the EEOC
If your employer fails to act or if your situation involves workplace discrimination, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC investigates workplace violations related to discrimination and retaliation.
File an official complaint here: EEOC.gov
4. Consult a Workplace Abuse Attorney
If internal complaints do not resolve the issue, contacting a workplace abuse attorney or employment lawyers can help you understand your rights and legal options. A lawyer for mistreatment at work can:
Help you file a complaint with HR, the EEOC, or state agencies
Assess whether you have grounds for legal action
Negotiate settlements or pursue a lawsuit against your employer
Need legal advice? Schedule a consultation.
How an Attorney for Workplace Bullying Can Help
An experienced attorney for workplace bullying understands the complexities of corporate bullying laws and can help you take the right steps to protect yourself.
Why You Need Legal Support
- Employment lawyers can determine whether your bullying qualifies as illegal harassment
- A law firm can help you file a complaint and collect evidence
- A workplace abuse attorney can negotiate with your employer on your behalf
- The best attorney for workplace bullying will help you understand your rights under state laws
At Hammons Law, we specialize in defending employees facing workplace mistreatment. If you’re unsure about your next steps, speaking with attorneys for workplace bullying can provide clarity.
See how we’ve helped others: Success stories
Can You Sue for Workplace Bullying?
Yes, in certain situations, you may be able to take legal action against your employer. You may have a case if:
The bullying is based on race, sexual orientation, or another protected class
The behavior creates a hostile work environment
You have been wrongfully terminated, demoted, or retaliated against
Your employer failed to address the bullying after you reported it
Potential Compensation in Workplace Bullying Cases
| Compensation Type | What It Covers |
| Lost Wages | Income lost due to wrongful termination or demotion |
| Emotional Distress | Compensation for mental health impacts caused by bullying |
| Punitive Damages | Compensation for severe employer negligence |
Not sure if you have a case? Talk to an employment lawyer today.
Take Action Against Workplace Bullying Today
You don’t have to suffer through workplace bullying alone. If you are experiencing ongoing mistreatment, discrimination, or retaliation, there are legal protections available to help you fight back.
At Hammons Law, we offer:
Experienced attorneys for workplace bullying
Personalized legal strategies
Proven success in employment law cases
Take the first step toward justice—schedule a consultation today.