Still a Common Threat to Any Workplace
Recent studies have revealed that workplace sexual harassment is just as common today as ever, even more so with the added threat of online harassment. Although state and federal statutes clearly define the rights of employees to be free of such instances, the occurrences are still shockingly frequent. In many cases, when supervisors and Human Resources are dismissive or unhelpful it may be necessary to consult the aid of an experienced Orlando personal injury lawyer to pursue a fair and just response.
Recognize Harassment
The largest setback in battling sexual harassment comes from a thorough lack of understanding of what constitutes such harassment and what your rights as an employee are. Many victims of sexual harassment are shamed into tolerating unacceptable treatment under the belief that their discomfort is unwarranted. However, any sexual or antagonizing behavior that causes you to feel unsafe or uncomfortable at work is a violation of your rights. Contact a qualified Orlando personal injury attorney if your employer fails to address any of these inappropriate behaviors.
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Any unwelcome physical contact
Even if other coworkers are comfortable with hugging, touching, or bumping, you do not have to tolerate any sort of unwanted physical contact. The simple fact is that No means No.
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Lewd comments, jokes, or pictures
You have a right to expect respectful conversation from your peers in any situation. If your coworkers are fond of dirty humor or illicit material, you should only have to tell them once to keep offensive topics to themselves. Whether the offensive material was shared directly with you or simply in your presence, you can object to this behavior to your supervisor and then to an Orlando personal injury lawyer.
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Inappropriate solicitations
Many businesses do allow consensual dating among employees, but you have the right to refuse such advances. Under no conditions should feel pressured to compromise to what makes you feel uncomfortable.
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Unlawful retaliation
Victims of sexual harassment often avoid seeking help because they fear retaliation, especially if the harasser is the supervisor or employer. Offering or refusing job perks, promotions raises, or anything else in regards to the inappropriate solicitation is unlawful and unacceptable. If you are forced out of your right to earn a fair wage because you were unwilling to tolerate sexual mistreatment, contact a personal injury attorney for Orlando immediately.
Do Not Be Afraid to Speak Up
Sexual harassment can cause lifelong mental anguish, and many victims that choose to quit their jobs instead of filing complaints are only part of a continuous line of victims. Harassment should never be tolerated by anyone in any work environment. Before involving an Orlando personal injury lawyer, the first step in preventing sexual harassment is stating directly and clearly that such behavior is offensive. Some coworkers are more comfortable with physical contact and questionable language, but you are well within your rights to explain clearly what your personal limits are. If the harassment continues, you should then voice your concerns to your immediate supervisor or HR department. Many companies have expressed policies for responding to such claims, and a fair investigation without fear of retaliation should follow. If you fear that your employer will not take reasonable steps to protect you from sexual harassment, and then document a detailed report of the treatment you have suffered and report these events to an Orlando personal injury attorney.
