Miami Sexual Harassment Lawyers

Protecting the Rights of Employees in Florida

Sexual harassment at work is illegal. It can be devastating to be a victim of sexual harassment. Often, victims feel reluctant to come forward for fear of losing their jobs or even just the embarrassment among co-workers. Sexual harassment can have severe economic and emotional consequences. Many victims feel humiliated and despondent after being sexually harassed. If you were a victim of sexual harassment at your job, you should consult the Miami sexual harassment attorneys at Phillips & Associates, PLLC.

Sexual harassment doesn't just impact the individual but can create a toxic work environment, lowering morale and productivity across the workplace. Addressing such issues with a knowledgeable attorney can prevent further unlawful behavior and promote a respectful work culture. Understanding your rights and the legal avenues available is crucial in these situations.

Call us today at (866) 229-9441 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our sexual harassment attorney in Miami.

What Is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment is prohibited as a form of sex discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Florida Civil Rights Act (FCRA). Sexual harassment can include unwelcome sexual advances, pranks, memes, inappropriate remarks, innuendos, touching, groping, and requests for sexual favors. It can be committed by supervisors, coworkers, customers, clients, and managers. It can also be quid pro quo harassment or hostile work environment harassment. Under federal law, a hostile work environment is one in which the conduct is so severe or pervasive that it changes the terms and conditions of employment. A trivial, one-off event is unlikely to count as actionable sexual harassment, but a single egregious event probably would.

It's important to document any incidents of harassment, noting dates, times, witnesses, and any communications related to the event. This documentation can be vital during legal proceedings and significantly support the claims. Victims should also consider speaking to their human resources department as part of their documentation process. Those impacted should seek guidance from a well-versed legal professional to ensure their rights are protected every step of the way. An attorney can also help in navigating the often complex process of filing claims and gathering necessary evidence.

The Florida Civil Rights Act, the state law, is interpreted using the case law interpreting federal anti-discrimination laws enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This alignment between state and federal law ensures comprehensive protection for victims. It also allows individuals to pursue claims under multiple legal frameworks, potentially broadening the scope for remedies and resolutions available.

What Is Quid Pro Quo Harassment?

A supervisor or manager commits quid pro quo harassment when they condition continued employment, job benefits, or even getting a job on submitting to sexual advances or providing sexual favors. You are not required to establish that your supervisor explicitly conditioned benefits on your submission to sexual requests. Sexual harassment can occur based on implicit demands. A Miami sexual harassment attorney would need to show that a reasonable person in your position would have believed that a job-related benefit hinged on satisfying the sexual demand.

Claims Based on Miami-Dade County Ordinance

The Miami-Dade County Human Rights Ordinance prohibits sex discrimination, including sexual harassment, in the city of Miami. Sexual harassment can involve one extremely serious act or a pervasive pattern of acts. It generally interferes with the ability to do your job and can make workers less productive.

Miami-Dade's Ordinance provides an additional layer of protection and is tailored to address specific local concerns. Being aware of local legislation can empower victims to take appropriate actions promptly and effectively.

The harasser may be a man or a woman, and the victim does not need to be of the opposite sex. Sexual harassment does not only occur during work hours or within the workplace. It can happen at a conference, holiday party, or another job-related event. For example, if your supervisor repeatedly tries to embrace you at the holiday party and at social work events, and you report it to HR, but HR does nothing, a Miami sexual harassment lawyer can help you bring a claim.

The county ordinance is enforced by the Miami-Dade County Commission on Human Rights. You can file a claim of sexual harassment under the ordinance. If you are not satisfied with the Director’s recommended final order, you have 15 days to request a hearing before a panel of the Commission. Within 180 days of filing the claim, you can ask for a notice of right-to-sue, which would terminate the jurisdiction of the Board and its Director. You have 90 days following receipt of the notice to sue in court. The court can enter an injunction against sexual harassment. It can also award actual and punitive damages.

Filing a complaint under the ordinance follows a structured timeline and process. Victims must be proactive in adhering to these deadlines to preserve their rights and the ability to pursue legal action. 

Impact of Sexual Harassment in Miami Workplaces

Sexual harassment in Miami workplaces can lead to disruption not only for the victims but also for the company's culture. Victims may find it incredibly challenging to maintain their productivity levels, which can subsequently affect their career development and opportunities for advancement. This disruption often extends to their personal lives, where the emotional toll can lead to anxiety, depression, or other forms of psychological distress.

Moreover, the prevalence of sexual harassment in the workplace can damage a company's reputation, leading to higher turnover rates and difficulties in attracting new talent. Companies must acknowledge and address these issues to foster a positive work environment that emphasizes safety, accountability, and respect. Employers and employees alike should be aware of the impact of these behaviors to combat and prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.

The Role of Local Organizations in Addressing Sexual Harassment

Miami is home to various organizations dedicated to supporting victims of sexual harassment and creating safer, more equitable work environments. Entities such as the Miami-Dade Commission on Human Rights provide valuable resources, including educational programs and advocacy initiatives, to assist victims in navigating their rights and legal options. These organizations are essential for raising awareness and empowering employees with the tools and knowledge needed to address harassment in the workplace effectively.

Additionally, local advocacy groups often collaborate with businesses to implement training programs and workshops to educate employees about harassment and create policies that foster inclusivity and respect. Employers who actively engage with these resources take a significant step toward ensuring that their workplaces are free from discrimination and misconduct. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file a sexual harassment complaint if my employer is a small business?

Yes. Most Florida and federal laws apply to companies with at least 15 employees. Miami-Dade County’s local ordinance may cover even some smaller employers. Talking to a Miami sexual harassment lawyer helps you understand which laws protect your situation.

Do I have to report harassment to my company before seeking legal counsel?

No, but reporting the conduct to your employer or human resources can help support your claim and show that you tried to resolve the matter internally. If you fear retaliation or do not feel safe, an attorney can explain your rights and help you plan your next steps under Florida law.

What types of evidence strengthen my sexual harassment claim?

Strong evidence includes detailed notes, saved messages, emails, statements from witnesses, and copies of reports you made to management or HR. Keep clear records to support your claim if you pursue legal action or file a complaint with a local agency.

Contact Our Miami Sexual Harassment Lawyer Today

Sexual harassment in a Miami workplace can be economically and emotionally harmful. It is important to hold employers accountable for the harm employees have suffered. Holding an employer accountable can also stop further sexual harassment from being perpetrated. If you were harmed by sexual harassment at your workplace, you should call the sexual harassment lawyers at the Miami office of Phillips & Associates, PLLC at (866) 229-9441 or complete our online form. We represent clients on a contingency fee basis, which means that we do not get attorneys’ fees unless we successfully secure a settlement or verdict on your behalf.

Contact us today to get started with our Miami sexual harassment attorney.