What to Do If You Experience Sexual Assault at Work in Florida

If you work in Florida and have experienced workplace sexual assault, you have legal rights and options. Sexual assault in the workplace can happen both on the job and at work-related events such as trade shows or networking events. Workplace sexual assault can include fondling, groping, rape, attempted rape, or any other form of non-consensual physical contact, and can be perpetrated by a boss, a co-worker, a customer, or even a vendor.

Experiencing this type of violation in the professional setting can be especially traumatic given the inherent trust we have in professional relationships. The first step in protecting and pursuing your legal rights and options if this happens to you is to report the assault to your manager or your HR department. It’s important to document this process and keep a copy of all related communications, whether in audio or written format.

While this should prompt an internal investigation within the company, many employers fail to take appropriate action. If your employer neglects to investigate, retaliates against you—such as placing you on leave—or does nothing to address the situation, you may have further legal options, including filing a civil lawsuit. You also have the option to report the incident to law enforcement, which can help establish an official record. Even if criminal charges are not pursued, having a filed police report can help support future legal action for you or others.

Workplace sexual assault lawsuits are typically filed against employers who fail to provide a safe working environment. These legal actions can seek financial compensation for medical expenses, emotional distress, and lost wages. Because these cases can be incredibly complex, it’s essential to seek guidance from an experienced workplace sexual assault attorney in Florida as soon as possible.

Acting quickly is critically important, as Florida’s civil statute of limitations imposes a time limit on filing a claim. While it may seem like there is plenty of time, important steps must be taken beforehand, which can take longer than expected in many cases.

If you have been a victim of workplace sexual assault in Florida, reaching out to a qualified attorney can help you understand your legal rights and the next best steps you can take. Helping Survivors can connect you with an experienced attorney for free who can help you understand your rights and options and represent you should they believe you have a case.

Please get in touch with us today if you think we can help.