Help After Sexual Harassment At Work

What Constitutes Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
Any unwelcome physical contact or advances Unwelcome sexual remarks, jokes or gestures	Displaying pornography or offensive images or items “Quid pro quo” suggestions

Employers know that there are laws against maintaining a persistently hostile work environment, or making quid pro quo demands (“Engage in sexual activity if you want to keep working here.”).

It is logical to ask, why does sexual harassment still happen? One leading theory is that some men resent the presence of women in the workplace — that they don’t belong there, so they deserve whatever they get. Some say that this is how some men are — they are predatory hunters who can’t control their impulses. Others see it as a “power trip” — a way for men to stay in control.

These are all interesting theories. But not all sexual harassment is directed against women, and why it happens doesn’t really matter. It’s against the law, and those who are subjected to this kind of treatment have legal recourse.

When Is a Sexually Hostile Work Environment Significant Enough to Act?

• The harassment must be severe or pervasive.

• The harassment must either result in a tangible adverse action (reduction in hours or pay, demotion, termination, etc.) or continue to impact your work experience even after bringing the matter to the attention of management or human resources.

Assertive Representation for Wronged Employees

At Gallup Auerbach, we represent clients in administrative complaints of sexual harassment, and in civil suits when necessary. We counsel employees as to whether and how to raise concerns about sexual harassment to the employer. In cases where the employer fails to take appropriate remedial action, we assist the employee in filing a Charge of Discrimination with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) or the local fair employment practices agency.

After satisfying all administrative requirements, if a claim cannot be resolved, we file civil actions to recover compensation for damages suffered.

If you need help determining whether your employee rights have been violated and think you need legal representation, fill out the Case Evaluation (“How Can We Help You?”) form on the left side of this page. We will contact you and provide more information about how Gallup Auerbach can help.

Our Broward County offices are conveniently located between Miami and Palm Beach in Hollywood and Coral Springs, Florida.