With the #metoo movement, which has unfolded over social media during the last several months, many Florida residents have become more aware of sexual harassment than ever before. What some Florida residents may have realized — like the many Hollywood celebrities who have come forward — is that they too have been victimized by sexual harassment.
When keeping an eye out for instances of sexual harassment in your workplace — particularly when it’s directed at you — be sure to look for the following scenarios:
Unwelcome touching: Notice if a coworker touches you, and pay attention to how you feel. Really, no one should be touching you in any way at the office. However, in some cases, the act is entirely innocent. You will always know the difference. If, at any time, when a coworker touches you, there is any tinge of discomfort in you – or a feeling that you wish it would stop – then it’s time to consider whether you’re being sexually harassed. However, if you are charged with such a misdemeanour after doing something like reckless unlawful touching or pushing someone, you might need an experienced criminal attorney. Depending upon the degree of your offense, your attorney knows can persuade the prosecutor to lower or drop the charges against you. For unintentional mishaps, you can maximise the chances of a successful outcome.
Comments about your body: If your coworker makes comments about your body and your appearance, keep an eye out. Either ask the coworker to stop, or monitor the behavior to see if it ever makes you feel uncomfortable.
Quid pro quo requests: These are requests that you perform some kind of sexual favor, or maybe just to go out to dinner with someone, in exchange for some kind of benefit. Alternatively, you might simply be told that you will lose your job if you don’t do it. This is clear and unlawful sexual harassment.
The #metoo movement shows just how important it is for us to see and here examples of sexually inappropriate behavior. This way, we have a better chance of recognizing it immediately when it’s happening in our own lives. Indeed, due to the subtle ways that sexual harassment starts, it’s sometimes easy to dismiss the behavior as something innocent, or something that will stop when it’s ignored — nevertheless, in many cases it continues until it becomes unbearable. If you’re in a situation like this, the law is on your side. Be sure to investigate your legal rights and options.
