Being targeted by a boss or coworker with intimidation, insults, or manipulation isn’t just stressful — it can damage your mental health, career, and livelihood. Unfortunately, workplace bullying remains a serious problem for many employees across New Jersey. But is it illegal? And what rights do you have to push back?
At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we help employees navigate these complex and emotionally charged issues. While not all forms of bullying are technically unlawful, certain behaviors may violate state or federal laws — particularly when they create a hostile work environment or involve discrimination or retaliation.
What Qualifies as Workplace Bullying?
Workplace bullying is a pattern of repeated, unreasonable behavior directed toward an employee or group of employees. It can come from supervisors, peers, or even subordinates and may include:
- Verbal abuse or insults
- Threats or intimidation
- Excessive criticism or micromanagement
- Intentional exclusion from meetings or opportunities
- Spreading rumors or false information
While bullying doesn’t always stem from unlawful discrimination, it may be actionable if tied to a protected class (like gender, race, religion, age, or disability) or if it leads to a hostile work environment.
When Bullying Becomes Illegal
In New Jersey, bullying crosses into illegal territory when it involves:
- Discrimination or harassment based on a protected characteristic (under NJLAD)
- Retaliation for reporting misconduct or asserting legal rights
- Constructive discharge — being forced to resign due to unbearable working conditions
- Whistleblower retaliation under CEPA (Conscientious Employee Protection Act)
If bullying falls into one of these categories, you may have legal grounds to pursue compensation and corrective action.
What to Do If You’re Being Bullied at Work
If you’re the target of persistent bullying, take these steps to protect yourself:
- Document every incident — including dates, times, what was said or done, and any witnesses
- Review your employee handbook or HR policies for complaint procedures
- Report the behavior to your HR department or a trusted supervisor in writing
- Seek legal advice from an experienced employment law attorney
Even if you’re unsure whether the bullying is legally actionable, a consultation can clarify your options and help prevent escalation.
Legal Support for a Better Work Environment
You deserve a workplace free from fear, hostility, and manipulation. NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC stands with New Jersey workers who are subjected to bullying or abusive conduct. Whether it’s tied to discrimination or workplace retaliation, we’ll help you evaluate your situation and take steps to reclaim your professional environment.
To learn more about what to do if you’re being bullied at work, contact our firm today for a confidential consultation.
Contact Information
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland, NJ 07068
Phone: (973) 358-7027
About NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC:
Our Employment Lawyers represent individuals and employees throughout the state of New Jersey. Our firm handles cases in both State and Federal Court involving allegations of discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, misclassification of independent contractors, whistleblower violations, pregnancy leave, and all other lawsuits involving NJ Employment laws.
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC aims to be the first call that you make when you are presented with a legal issue. Our firm will assess your potential claim and determine whether it is a matter that we can handle on your behalf. In the event that it is something we cannot handle, we will provide you with references to make sure that you receive the best possible legal representation.