Fort Lauderdale Sexual Harassment Attorney

Fighting Tirelessly to Protect the Rights of Workers in Florida, New York, Illinois, New Mexico & Colorado

Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, sexual harassment constitutes unlawful discrimination. Employees are protected from sexual harassment in the workplace and may take legal action against an employer if sexual harassment has occurred. By law, sexual harassment is defined as any physical or verbal sexual advances, requests, comments, or conduct that is unwelcome or unwanted.

If you are the victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, contact the team at USA Employment Lawyers to discuss your situation with one of our Fort Lauderdale sexual harassment lawyers. Harassment can be challenging to define, so you must speak to an experienced lawyer about the specifics of your circumstances. We can help you determine if you have a legal claim, and if so, we can take aggressive legal action against the liable parties. Our firm assists clients throughout Florida, as well as across Colorado, Illinois, New Mexico & New York.

Call USA Employment Lawyers today at (800) 483-0998 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our sexual harassment attorney in Fort Lauderdale!

What Is Workplace Sexual Harassment?

As previously mentioned, workplace harassment can be hard to pinpoint. There is often a fine line between what is legal and what is illegal. It is essential that you clearly understand your rights.

Generally speaking, there are two types of sexual harassment: quid pro quo harassment and harassment that leads to a hostile work environment.

Understanding the nuances of these two categories can offer greater insight into how unlawful behavior manifests in different work settings. Awareness ensures that individuals recognize inappropriate conduct early and act accordingly to protect themselves and their colleagues.

What Is Quid Pro Quo Harassment?

Quid pro quo translates to “this for that.” Quid pro quo harassment tends to be somewhat easier to define, as it usually involves some form of sexual request or behavior in exchange for employment-related gains, such as a promotion or raises. Unlike a hostile environment, a single instance is sufficient to be legally considered sexual harassment.

This form of harassment is particularly insidious as it often involves an abuse of power. Employees may feel pressured to comply with inappropriate requests out of fear of losing job security or missing out on career advancement opportunities. Workers must understand that this behavior is illegal and actionable under the law.

What Is a Hostile Work Environment?

Hostile work environment harassment is created when an employer, supervisor, coworker, or multiple coworkers make unwelcome comments or advances that result in any reasonable person feeling intimidated, uncomfortable, or threatened in a way that negatively affects his or her employment. Typically (though not always), this conduct is severe and pervasive.

The key element of a hostile work environment is its impact on the victim's ability to perform their job effectively. Constant exposure to such behavior can lead to significant emotional distress and lower productivity and might even force an individual to resign if the environment becomes unbearable. Addressing these issues promptly by consulting with legal professionals, such as a sexual harassment attorney in Fort Lauderdale, can lead to favorable outcomes for those affected.

It is important to note that simply feeling stressed or unhappy at your job does not necessarily mean you are the victim of a hostile work environment. It is not illegal for your boss to yell at you, but it is illegal for them to threaten to fire you unless you perform sexual favors. This is a complex and highly nuanced area of law; it is wise to discuss your situation with a sexual harassment lawyer who knows the ins and outs of these types of cases.

The Impact of Sexual Harassment in Fort Lauderdale

Sexual harassment not only affects individuals on a personal level but also has broader implications for the workplace and the Fort Lauderdale community. Victims may experience a range of emotional and psychological impacts, including anxiety, depression, and reduced self-esteem. These effects can extend to their work life, causing decreased productivity, absenteeism, and even a decision to leave their positions.

From an organizational perspective, sexual harassment can harm workplace morale and foster a culture of fear and intimidation. Employers may face high turnover rates and increased expenses for hiring and training new employees. Furthermore, an inadequate response to sexual harassment allegations can damage an organization's reputation and lead to costly legal battles. Addressing these issues proactively supports employees and strengthens the community and local economy by promoting a fair and respectful workplace environment.

Florida Laws & Resources For Victims of Sexual Harassment

Florida law, alongside federal legislation, offers various resources and protections for victims of sexual harassment. The Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) is a state agency that enforces laws against discrimination and harassment. Victims can file complaints with the FCHR and seek guidance from a sexual harassment lawyer in Fort Lauderdale on how to address workplace harassment.

Additionally, the Florida Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on factors including sex, ensuring that employees have legal grounds to combat harassment. Victims in Fort Lauderdale can also access local support services, such as the Women’s Center of Broward, which offers counseling and support for those affected. Utilizing these resources can empower victims to seek justice and regain control over their working and personal lives.

If you are facing sexual harassment in the workplace, then you need to be aware of your full legal rights and how you can assert them. Contact USA Employment Lawyers today for a free case evaluation. 

Signs of Sexual Harassment

There are countless ways in which workplace harassment can occur. Some examples include:

• Any Request For or Solicitation Of Sexual Favors
• Unwelcome Physical Contact, such as hugging, touching, patting, pinching, etc.
• “Gawking” or Staring at a person in a sexual or suggestive manner
• Sexually Suggestive, Vulgar, or Lewd Jokes, comments, or remarks
• Rude or Unwanted Comments about someone’s body, clothing, and/or appearance
• Sending, Forwarding, or Distributing Emails, flyers, or other materials that are sexual
• Repeated Requests For Dates or non-work-related meetings
• Using Derogatory Sexual Slurs or Epithets
• Threatening Employment-Related Punishment to coerce sexual favors or activities

Recognizing these behaviors in the workplace is crucial for taking timely action. Many employees endure harassment silently, hoping it will stop on its own. However, acknowledging and reporting any of the above signs can initiate the necessary steps toward resolution and ensure a safer work environment for everyone involved.

Workplace harassment can also occur even if the behavior is not necessarily sexual. For example, using racial slurs, remarking on someone’s ethnicity or appearance, making derogatory comments about a person’s religion or sexual orientation, or making fun of someone’s age are all forms of harassment.

What to Do If You Are Being Harassed in the Workplace

Though it can be challenging, it is essential that you first inform the harasser or harasser that their behavior is unwelcome and ask them to stop. You should also report the harassment to your HR department. If the unwelcome conduct does not stop, or if your employer insists that the behavior is not harassment, you should contact a sexual harassment attorney in Fort Lauderdale who can help you determine which steps to take next. Remember, it is illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for filing a harassment claim.

Upon seeking legal consultation, it's beneficial to have documented evidence of the harassment. Maintain a record of incidents, including dates, times, locations, and any witnesses. This documentation can strengthen your legal position and facilitate the judicial process when legally confronting the offender. Additionally, having a clear understanding of your company’s internal policies regarding harassment can guide you in adhering to appropriate channels when reporting.

Our Fort Lauderdale sexual harassment attorneys at USA Employment Lawyers understand the emotional and long-lasting consequences of workplace harassment. With this in mind, we work quickly to compile a strong case on your behalf while providing you with compassionate, personalized legal counsel. Our goal is to help you achieve a swift resolution so that you can move forward with your life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Harassment

How Does Sexual Harassment Differ From Workplace Bullying?

Sexual harassment involves explicitly unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature. In contrast, workplace bullying may involve repeated negative actions intended to harm or isolate a particular employee, regardless of its nature. Both can create hostile work environments but are legally distinct, with sexual harassment often meeting more serious legal criteria for action under specific laws.

What Should I Document If I Want to Report Harassment?

Documenting incidents of harassment is crucial when filing a report. Keep a detailed record of each incident's dates, times, locations, and individuals involved. Note any witnesses present and save any related communications, such as emails or text messages. This information substantiates your claims and provides a clearer picture of the harassment you face.

Can Men Be Victims of Sexual Harassment Too?

Yes, men can also be victims of sexual harassment. While the majority of reported incidents involve female victims, men may also experience similar unwelcome advances or behavior in the workplace. Everyone, regardless of gender, has the right to a safe workplace. Legal support is available to all who face harassment, emphasizing that anyone can seek justice and protection under the law.

What Are My Rights If I Face Retaliation After Reporting?

If you face retaliation after reporting harassment, you have the right to take legal action against that retaliation. Retaliation can include demotions, unfounded performance reviews, or even termination. Federal and Florida state laws protect employees from retaliatory actions, ensuring that workers can report harassment without fear of repercussion. Consulting with a sexual harassment attorney in Fort Lauderdale can help you understand your rights and course of action.

What Are Some Steps Employers Can Take to Prevent Sexual Harassment?

Employers can play a pivotal role in preventing sexual harassment by implementing clear policies that outline acceptable behavior and the consequences of misconduct. Regular training on discrimination and harassment can increase employee awareness and understanding. Encouraging open communication and promptly addressing complaints helps create a supportive workplace culture where employees feel safe and valued.

Contact USA Employment Lawyers today to meet with our sexual harassment lawyer in Fort Lauderdale!