Confidential. Compassionate. Relentless.
For Victims Who Deserve Justice. For the Falsely Accused Who Deserve a Fighter.
Sexual harassment and sexual abuse cases are among the most sensitive, high-stakes, and life-altering legal matters that exist. They carry enormous emotional weight — for victims who have been violated and silenced, and for individuals who have been falsely accused and are watching their lives unravel around an allegation that is not true.
Sean Branigan has been featured in the Star-Ledger as a champion for victims' rights in sexual abuse and harassment matters. He has also defended the wrongfully accused with the same ferocity — because he understands that a false accusation can destroy a career, a family, and a reputation just as completely as the real thing.
Attorneys who can credibly, ethically, and effectively handle both sides of these cases are extraordinarily rare. The reason is simple: it requires a deep understanding of the law, the psychology of these cases, and the courage to follow the facts wherever they lead — regardless of which side you are on. Sean is one of the very few attorneys in New Jersey who has that credibility.
If you are a victim, you deserve an attorney who will fight for you without flinching — who will not let the power, money, or reputation of the accused intimidate the pursuit of justice. If you are falsely accused, you deserve an attorney who will dismantle the allegation with precision and protect everything you have built. Either way, the call is the same.
Reach Sean Directly
Direct Cell
973.519.3332
Office
973.744.2223
Free diagnosis & strategy session available.
Strategic consultation: $1,000.
True victims & the wrongfully accused are never turned away.
Bilingual — English & Spanish.
Scope of Representation
What Sean Handles in Sexual Harassment & Abuse
Workplace Sexual Harassment
Quid pro quo harassment, hostile work environment claims, and supervisor misconduct — Sean pursues these claims aggressively under the NJLAD and Title VII, and defends employers against false or exaggerated claims.
Sexual Abuse Civil Litigation
Civil claims for sexual abuse — including claims against institutions, employers, and individuals — require a lawyer who understands both the legal framework and the human reality. Sean handles these cases with the gravity they deserve.
Defense of the Falsely Accused
False accusations of sexual misconduct are devastating. Sean builds a rigorous, fact-based defense — challenging inconsistencies, investigating the accuser's history, and protecting the accused's rights at every stage.
Title IX Matters
Students and faculty facing Title IX investigations at New Jersey colleges and universities need experienced counsel immediately. Sean navigates these proceedings with the same precision he brings to court.
Workplace Investigations
When a sexual harassment complaint is filed, employers need an independent, legally defensible investigation. Sean conducts thorough investigations that protect the employer while ensuring procedural fairness.
Confidential Settlements & NDAs
Many sexual harassment and abuse matters are resolved through confidential settlements. Sean negotiates these agreements with precision — protecting his clients' interests, privacy, and future.
Who Calls Sean
This Practice Area Is Built for You If…
Handling sensitive sexual harassment and abuse matters throughout New Jersey with complete confidentiality. Serving Essex, Morris, Hudson, Ocean, Warren, Sussex, and Hunterdon Counties.
- You are a victim of sexual harassment or abuse in the workplace and you need an attorney who will fight — not just file paperwork.
- You were assaulted or abused and the institution that employed the perpetrator failed to protect you.
- You reported sexual harassment and were retaliated against — demoted, sidelined, or terminated.
- You have been falsely accused of sexual misconduct and your career, reputation, and family are at risk.
- You are facing a Title IX investigation at a New Jersey college or university.
- You are an employer who received a sexual harassment complaint and need to respond correctly and immediately.
- You signed an NDA and are unsure whether it prevents you from speaking about what happened to you.
- You were told your case was too old, too complicated, or not worth pursuing. Call Sean before you accept that answer.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between quid pro quo and hostile work environment harassment?
Quid pro quo harassment occurs when a supervisor conditions employment benefits on sexual favors. Hostile work environment harassment occurs when unwelcome sexual conduct is severe or pervasive enough to create an abusive work environment. Both are illegal under the NJLAD and Title VII — and both can support significant damages claims.
How long do I have to file a sexual harassment claim in New Jersey?
Under the NJLAD, you generally have two years from the last act of harassment to file a lawsuit. For EEOC charges, you have 300 days. However, the statute of limitations for certain sexual abuse claims was extended by the New Jersey Child Victims Act. Do not assume your claim is time-barred — call Sean for a confidential assessment.
Can I sue my employer even if the harasser was a coworker, not a supervisor?
Yes. Employers can be held liable for coworker harassment if they knew or should have known about it and failed to take prompt corrective action. Sean has successfully pursued claims against employers who ignored or minimized complaints about coworker misconduct.
What if I signed an NDA — can I still pursue a claim?
New Jersey law limits the enforceability of NDAs that prevent employees from reporting sexual harassment or abuse to law enforcement or government agencies. The enforceability of NDAs in civil litigation is more complex. Sean will review your NDA and advise you on your options — confidentially.
How does Sean handle cases where the accusation is false?
Sean approaches false accusation cases with the same rigor he brings to every matter. He investigates the facts, challenges inconsistencies in the accuser's account, examines the accuser's motivations, and builds a comprehensive defense. He has successfully defended clients against false accusations at every stage — from internal investigations to civil litigation to criminal proceedings.