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Q: Accused of sexual harassment at work and seeking advice.
I have been wrongfully accused of sexual harassment at work and have been sent home with pay today without knowing the specifics of the accusations. I'm seeking advice on what actions to take next.
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James L. Arrasmith
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A:
Being accused of something as serious as sexual harassment can feel overwhelming, especially when you don’t even know the details of the allegations. The first thing to do is remain calm and avoid reacting defensively toward your employer or coworkers. Since you’ve been placed on leave with pay, use this time to carefully prepare rather than rushing to explain yourself without knowing what is being claimed.
You should request clarification from your employer about the process and when you will have the opportunity to respond. While you wait, gather any evidence that may help, such as emails, messages, or witness accounts that reflect your professional behavior. Avoid contacting the accuser or discussing the situation with coworkers, as this could be misinterpreted or used against you.
It’s also wise to keep notes about everything that happens from this point forward, including dates of conversations and instructions from your employer. If you feel the investigation is unfair, you may later need to raise those concerns formally. For now, focusing on cooperation and documentation gives you the best chance to defend yourself and protect your reputation.
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