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 common forms of sexual harassment amongst employers.

How does Florida Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, Manatee County employers can be required to formulate 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).

Furthermore, federal and Florida laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Manatee County to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. Also, these laws prohibit employers from firing an employee for alleging sexual harassment or taking any action in retaliation to a claim.

How can a Florida attorney help?

If you do not have any expertise in the applicable laws, it may be difficult to investigate and prove a claim involving sexual harassment. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are frequently understaffed and overworked. Thus, hiring an attorney in Manatee County can be the safest way to file your claim within the deadlines for sexual harassment claims that Florida has defined.