Coral Springs Sexual Harassment Lawyer

Coral Springs Sexual Harassment Lawyer

Experiencing sexual harassment is one of the most frightening and traumatic experiences. While it may seem overwhelming, you do have the right to file a claim against your employer and uphold your rights to a safe workplace. A Coral Springs sexual harassment lawyer can represent you throughout the claims process, pursuing full compensation for your damages and holding your discriminatory employer accountable.

Why Choose the Law Offices of Gary A. Costales, P.A.?

At the Law Offices of Gary A. Costales, P.A., over 30 years of experience and an in-depth knowledge of sexual harassment laws are applied to every case. We understand how challenging it can be to stand up against your employer, which is why we seek to make this process easier by providing personalized attention and advocating on your behalf. Through working with our compassionate team, you can feel supported through each step of the claims process.

An Overview of Sexual Harassment Claims in Coral Springs

Unfortunately, many employees face sexual harassment. These cases are extremely serious, causing lasting negative impacts on employees’ well-being. A sexual harassment case is legally actionable, as sexual harassment is a form of workplace discrimination due to sex or gender.

While anyone can be a victim of sexual harassment, women are most commonly affected. 78.2% of sexual harassment claims filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) are filed by women. In general, 82% of women and 42% of men have suffered sexual harassment or assault.

If you are experiencing any unwanted conduct or discriminatory behavior due to your sex, you should hire a sexual harassment lawyer as soon as possible to begin building a claim. Common types of workplace sexual harassment include:

• Sexually suggestive comments or jokes
• Unwanted physical contact
• Requests for sexual favors
• Sending sexual messages or images at work or through work channels, such as email
• Sexual assault or rape

The Difference Between Quid Pro Quo and a Hostile Work Environment

While there are many ways sexual harassment can happen at work, they fall into two main categories of harassment. The difference between hostile work environments and quid pro quo cases depends on the circumstances and form of harassment. A Coral Springs sexual harassment attorney can create a claim tailored to your personal experience.

Quid pro quo claims involve requests for sexual favors in a “this for that” exchange for employment benefits or avoiding adverse actions. For example, a victim may face requests for sexual favors to get a raise or a promotion, or they may suffer demands for these favors to avoid being demoted, getting fired, or receiving a poor performance review.

A hostile work environment claim can be filed when sexual harassment is so severe or pervasive that it prevents you from working safely or comfortably. For example, if co-workers make repeated offensive comments relating to your sex or send you sexual images online, they can be creating a hostile work environment.

Damages You Can Recover in a Sexual Harassment Case

By filing a claim in a sexual harassment case, you can recover damages that the harassment caused. A lawyer can work with you to include a comprehensive list of your damages in your claim, and they can then negotiate for the full compensation you deserve. Compensation can address both economic and non-economic losses, such as:

• Lost wages and other benefits
• Back pay
• Emotional distress
• Reputational damage
• Punitive damages

Support for Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Victims in Coral Springs

Sexual harassment can be difficult to recover from. In Coral Springs, organizations and support groups exist to aid your recovery, such as the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence and Women in Distress of Broward County. These organizations can provide access to counseling and crisis lines if you need emotional support or guidance when creating a safe plan moving forward.

FAQs

What Should You Do If You Experience Sexual Harassment at Work?

If you are experiencing sexual harassment at work, document the exact dates, times, and details of the event. If available, keep a note of pertinent evidence, such as witnesses or emails between you and your employer. Then, report the harassment to HR or your supervisor. If an internal report fails to stop the harassment, speak with a Coral Springs sexual harassment lawyer about your next steps, which could be negotiating with your employer and filing a claim.

How Long Do You Have to File a Sexual Harassment Claim in Florida?

The specific deadlines for a Florida sexual harassment claim depend on whether your case is filed through a state or federal agency. Claims with the federal EEOC must be filed within 300 days of the harassment, while claims with the Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) must be filed within 365 days. A lawyer can explain which deadline applies to your case and work swiftly to prepare a claim before then.

What Evidence Is Needed for a Harassment Claim?

To file a sexual harassment claim, you must prove that you have experienced an adverse action and that it was due to a protected characteristic. This can be done by analyzing evidence such as:

• Personal logs
• Internal harassment reports
• Witness statements
• Records of communication between you and your employer
• Performance reviews

A lawyer can help you gather evidence to successfully prove a harassment case.

Why Should You Hire a Sexual Harassment Lawyer?

When you hire a sexual harassment lawyer, they can put forward a strong, evidence-based claim against your employer. Their knowledge of sexual harassment laws means you don’t need to worry about your claim meeting the legal requirements. A lawyer can work to prove your story by analyzing these laws and evidence from the workplace. A lawyer can also reduce your stress by offering support and advocating on your behalf to seek the full recovery you deserve.

Speak With a Coral Springs Sexual Harassment Lawyer Today

A sexual harassment case is not easy to prove, especially when opposing your own employer. These cases require careful analysis of evidence and knowledge of employee rights to craft a claim that proves discrimination. At the Law Offices of Gary A. Costales, P.A., we can work hard to build the claim you need to recover from sexual harassment. Contact us to speak with an experienced lawyer about your case.