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Sexual harassment attorneys and assault counselors find spike in claims

Posted at 2:49 PM, Dec 08, 2017
and last updated 2017-12-08 15:49:19-05

TULSA, Okla. -- Employment lawyers like Bill Wilkinson say with faces like Harvey Weinstein and Al Franken accused of harassment in the media, their workload is growing.

"It's been 100 percent. A 100 percent increase. We've had lots and lots of calls that are still continuing to rise. There's no sign of it letting off," Wilkinson said.

The attorney tells 2 Works for You the biggest lesson is victims can't get fired for accusing a harasser. After decades, he continues to work because of the gratitude he receives from clients.

"I would do everything to keep from walking where his desk is. I've lived in hell. I've tip-toed through this type of situation. Thank god it's finally over now," Wilkinson said.

Counselors at locations like Domestic Violence Intervention Services are also seeing more walk-ins, with a recent rise over the last few weeks as accusations grow.

"We're beginning to see a little bit of consequences and accountability and perhaps justice in some of these situations which gives women courage," DVIS CEO Tracey Lyall said.

In the courtroom, harassment cases can last as long as three years. That's because criminal cases take priority over civil lawsuits. Attorneys say the try to move these claims through the system within a year if possible.

 

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