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Hostile Workplace Attorney in Texas: How to Fight Back Against a Toxic Work Environment

Work should be a place where you feel safe, respected, and valued—not one where you’re constantly anxious, belittled, or harassed. Unfortunately, not every workplace meets that standard. If your job is causing emotional distress due to ongoing mistreatment, you may be facing what the law calls a hostile work environment.

But what exactly qualifies as a hostile workplace in Texas? And when is it time to call a hostile workplace attorney?

In this blog, we break down what a hostile work environment is, your legal protections, and how an attorney can help you hold your employer accountable.

What Is a Hostile Work Environment?

A hostile work environment occurs when workplace behavior becomes so offensive, intimidating, or abusive that it interferes with an employee’s ability to do their job.

To qualify as illegal under state or federal law, the behavior must:

• Be severe or pervasive
  
  
• Be based on a protected characteristic (e.g., race, sex, religion, age, disability)
  
  
• Create a work environment that a reasonable person would find hostile or abusive
  
  
• Be ignored or condoned by the employer
  
  

💡 It’s not just about having a mean boss or annoying coworkers—it’s about persistent behavior tied to discrimination or harassment.

Examples of Hostile Work Environment Behavior

Some examples that may justify legal action include:

• Racial or sexual slurs
  
  
• Inappropriate jokes, comments, or gestures
  
  
• Unwanted physical contact
  
  
• Sexual harassment or propositioning
  
  
• Threats or intimidation
  
  
• Retaliation for reporting misconduct
  
  
• Disparaging comments about your religion, disability, or gender
  
  
• Isolation, exclusion, or sabotage tied to bias
  
  

📌 If this conduct is happening regularly and your employer won’t stop it, you may have a case.

Protected Characteristics Under the Law

You’re protected by both federal law (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act) and Texas Labor Code Chapter 21 if you’re being harassed or targeted because of:

• Race or ethnicity
  
  
• Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation
  
  
• Religion or religious dress
  
  
• Age (40 or older)
  
  
• Disability or medical condition
  
  
• National origin
  
  
• Pregnancy
  
  

Even one-time events can lead to a hostile workplace claim if they’re extreme enough (e.g., physical assault or sexual coercion).

What Employers Are Legally Required to Do

Employers have a legal obligation to:

• Prevent harassment and discrimination
  
  
• Respond promptly to complaints
  
  
• Investigate claims in good faith
  
  
• Take corrective action if wrongdoing occurs
  
  

If your employer fails to act—or retaliates against you for speaking up—they may be liable for creating or allowing a hostile work environment.

What to Do If You’re in a Hostile Workplace

1. Document Everything

• Keep detailed notes of each incident (who, what, where, when)
  
  
• Save emails, texts, photos, or recordings if legally permitted
  
  
• Identify witnesses if possible
  
  

2. Report Internally

• Follow your company’s harassment reporting policy
  
  
• File a complaint with HR or your supervisor
  
  
• Always do it in writing and keep a copy
  
  

3. File a Formal Complaint

• If the problem persists or your complaint is ignored, you can file with:
  
  
  • EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission)
    
    
  • Texas Workforce Commission (TWC)
    
    

4. Contact a Hostile Workplace Attorney

An attorney can help you navigate the process, protect your job, and file a lawsuit if needed.

Can You Be Fired for Reporting a Hostile Workplace?

No. Retaliation is illegal.

If you’re fired, demoted, isolated, or harassed for reporting a hostile work environment, you may also have a retaliation claim—which can increase the damages available to you.

A hostile workplace attorney will protect you from further mistreatment and help you take legal action if necessary.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If your hostile workplace case is successful, you may be entitled to:

Some settlements or jury verdicts for hostile work environment claims reach six figures or more, depending on the severity.

How a Hostile Workplace Attorney Can Help

A hostile work environment lawyer will:

• Review your case and identify legal violations
  
  
• Help you gather evidence and document abuse
  
  
• File complaints with the EEOC or TWC
  
  
• Negotiate with your employer for a fair settlement
  
  
• Represent you in court if necessary
  
  
• Protect you from retaliation throughout the process
  
  

📞 The sooner you act, the stronger your case. Time limits apply—typically 180–300 days to file a claim.

How The Lange Firm Helps Victims in Texas

At The Lange Firm, we stand up for employees across Texas who are facing:

• Racial or sexual harassment
  
  
• Retaliation after reporting misconduct
  
  
• Hostile environments tied to disability, gender, or age
  
  
• Intimidation or bullying at work
  
  

We’ll help you file your complaint, protect your job, and pursue compensation if your employer won’t take responsibility.

📞 Contact us today for a confidential consultation with a hostile workplace attorney who will fight for your rights.

Final Thoughts

A toxic work environment is more than unpleasant—it’s potentially illegal. If your employer refuses to stop harassment or mistreatment, a hostile workplace attorney can help you hold them accountable and get the justice you deserve.

✅ Speak up. Take action. And don’t settle for less than a safe, respectful workplace.