Sexual harassment in any form, whether it be verbal or physical, has long-lasting ramifications for its victims. It’s prohibited under numerous laws, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Florida Civil Rights Acts of 1992. As a Floridian, understanding what constitutes sexual harassment in Florida can help you better understand your rights and take rapid action if the situation arises.
Read on for a complete legal overview of sexual harassment in Florida.
What Constitutes Sexual Harassment in Florida?
Florida law defines sexual harassment as any unwelcome sexual physical or verbal conduct. This encompasses an extensive range of comments and behaviors, including:
- Unwelcome physical contact of any kind
- Unwelcome sexual advances
- Quid pro quo, which means to:
- Offer a position or benefit in exchange for sexual favors, or
- Threatening termination or disciplinary action if the victim doesn’t provide sexual favors
- Requests for sexual favors
- Inappropriate comments or jokes
- Inappropriate gestures
- Threats intended to coerce an individual into sexual contact
- Inappropriate comments, jokes, or threats made online
Unwanted sexual comments and incidents are illegal in Florida when they create a hostile or offensive work environment, or if they lead to a termination, demotion, or disciplinary action.
What Types of Damages Can You Claim in a Florida Sexual Harassment Case?
Sexual harassment victims often suffer various losses, including emotional distress, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, loss of enjoyment of life, and feelings of loneliness, isolation, and despair. These losses may be claimed in a legal case.
In addition, if victims are terminated, demoted, or denied a promotion as a result of sexual harassment, they may also claim lost wages, bonuses, and benefits.
Navigating a Florida sexual harassment case can be stressful and emotionally taxing. At Weldon & Rothman, PL, our experienced attorneys will be by your side at every step, ensuring your rights are protected while fighting for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free sexual harassment case review.