Florida law defines sexual harassment as any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, whether they are verbal advances or physical acts. Sexual advances, creating a hostile work environment that is blatantly sexual in nature, and sexual advances are some of the more prevalent forms of sexual harassment amongst employers.

How does Florida Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, Longboat Key employers can be required to create company policies that specifically address sexual harassment in the workplace. These must be posted in a visible area such as a break room. Matters covered by such policies should include contact information used by employees to report incidents, handling procedures for claims, and corrective measures (in the event that a claim turns out to be successful).

There are also federal and Florida laws that have formed agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Longboat Key workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Employers are also barred under these laws from taking action in retaliation against an employee who has claimed sexual harassment, such as firing them or denying them a promotion.

How can a Florida attorney help?

If you do not have any expertise in the applicable laws, it may be difficult to investigate and establish a claim involving sexual harassment. It's not uncommon for federal investigators to be too overworked to handle individual claims. Therefore, hiring a lawyer in Longboat Key may be the ideal way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Florida for sexual harassment matters.