What To Expect During A Sexual Harassment Trial?

Once you’ve decided to file a sexual harassment case and hire a local Philadelphia sexual harassment attorney, it’s important to know what to expect during a trial. This way, you’ll be well-prepared to face the harasser, increasing the odds of bringing justice. 

Read on to know what to expect during a sexual harassment trial. 

The People Who You’ll Be Talking To

During a trial, you’ll be asked to honestly answer any questions made by a lawyer. This can be intimidating for some, especially since lying under oath is considered perjury. To increase your confidence, it’s best to know the role of each person you’ll be talking to, particularly the prosecuting and defense attorney.

Prosecuting Attorney

A prosecuting attorney is responsible for convincing the jury why they should convict the alleged perpetrator, also known as the “defendant.” Hence, they are not just on your side per se, but they have a duty to uphold and protect the public as well as any laws that the defendant violated. 

A prosecutor will ask you some questions during “direct examination.” Fortunately, they’ll review some of the questions they plan to ask you before the trial, helping you become more prepared. 

Defense Attorney

A defense attorney represents the alleged perpetrator. The perpetrator’s attorney will ask you questions during “cross-examination,” which is a part of the trial that comes after the direct examination.

During the cross-examination, you may feel that the defense attorney is “against” you, but keep in mind that they’re simply doing their job. So, try not to take their tone or words personally. 

Your Role

As mentioned above, you should never lie during a sexual harassment trial, so, always try to answer every question the lawyers and judge might ask. 

Unfortunately, even if the truth is on your side, truthfully answering questions can be limiting and intimidating. In this case, consider the following tips when you’re taking the stand: 

• Give yourself brief pauses, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed with the questions. You can always ask the judge for a short break. 
• Pause if you’re feeling frustrated or angry
• Give direct answers to the questions. Don’t provide any additional information unless you’re asked.
• There are cases when you may not understand a particular question. If this happens, ask the lawyer or judge to rephrase or even repeat the question. 

Final Words

Any type of unwanted contact, like intentionally touching, pinching, caressing, kissing, or hugging, is already a form of sexual harassment. So, if you find that someone sexually approaches you, never tolerate such acts. In this case, call a professional from the Law Offices of Richard J. Fuschino Jr. immediately. 

These criminal lawyers have years of experience bringing justice to perpetrators, allowing you to feel assured and safe in the workplace, home, or anywhere that you’re being sexually harassed.