Workplace Physical Harassment Lawyer: Protecting Your Rights in Florida

Florida and Federal Laws That Protect Employees

Employees in Florida are protected from workplace physical harassment under both federal law and state law.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Title VII is a federal law that prohibits workplace discrimination and harassment based on protected characteristics, including sex, race, color, religion, and national origin. Physical harassment that targets an employee because of one of these characteristics — or that creates a hostile work environment — may violate Title VII.

Title VII applies to employers with 15 or more employees and protects workers from harassment by supervisors, coworkers, and, in some cases, third parties such as clients or customers.

Florida Civil Rights Act (FCRA)

The Florida Civil Rights Act mirrors many of the protections provided under federal law and applies to employers in Florida. It prohibits discrimination and harassment in employment based on protected characteristics, including sex, pregnancy, race, age, disability, and marital status.

In many cases, employees may have claims under both federal and Florida law. A workplace physical harassment lawyer can determine which laws apply to your situation and ensure that all deadlines and procedural requirements are met.

What Makes Physical Harassment Illegal?

Not every uncomfortable interaction rises to the level of illegal harassment. For conduct to be considered unlawful, it typically must meet one or more of the following standards:

• The conduct is unwelcome
• The conduct is severe or pervasive
• The conduct creates a hostile or abusive work environment
• The conduct is based on a protected characteristic

Physical harassment often meets the “severe” standard more quickly than verbal harassment, especially when it involves threats, force, or unwanted touching. Courts recognize that physical conduct is inherently more invasive and intimidating than words alone.

Who Can Be Responsible for Workplace Physical Harassment?

Physical harassment can be committed by:

• A supervisor or manager
• A coworker
• A company owner or executive
• A customer, client, or vendor

Employers can be held legally responsible if they knew or should have known about the harassment and failed to take appropriate action. Employers may also be automatically liable for harassment committed by supervisors in certain circumstances.

If the harasser is a supervisor, the employer’s legal exposure may be significantly greater. A workplace physical harassment lawyer can evaluate employer responsibility and help determine the best course of action.

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

Experiencing physical harassment can be overwhelming, but taking certain steps may help protect your rights.

First, if you feel unsafe, prioritize your immediate safety. Physical harassment can escalate, and no job is worth risking your well-being.

Second, document what happened. Write down dates, times, locations, what occurred, and who witnessed the behavior. Save emails, texts, or messages related to the incident. This documentation can become critical evidence later.

Third, review your employer’s harassment policy. Many companies require employees to report harassment through HR or a designated supervisor. While reporting is not always legally required, it can be an important step in preserving your claim.

Finally, consider speaking with a workplace physical harassment lawyer before or shortly after reporting. An attorney can help you avoid mistakes, prepare for retaliation risks, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.

What If You’re Afraid of Retaliation?

Fear of retaliation is one of the main reasons employees hesitate to report physical harassment. Retaliation can include termination, demotion, reduced hours, isolation, or negative performance reviews after reporting misconduct.

Both federal and Florida law prohibit retaliation against employees who report harassment or participate in an investigation. Even if the underlying harassment claim is ultimately disputed, retaliation itself can be a separate legal violation.

A workplace physical harassment lawyer can help you recognize retaliation, document it properly, and take action if your employer responds unlawfully.

How a Workplace Physical Harassment Lawyer Can Help

Navigating a workplace harassment claim is rarely straightforward. Employers often deny wrongdoing, minimize complaints, or attempt to shift blame onto the employee. Having an experienced attorney on your side can make a significant difference.

A workplace physical harassment lawyer can:

• Evaluate whether the conduct you experienced qualifies as illegal harassment
• Identify applicable federal and Florida laws
• Help you report the harassment strategically
• Communicate with your employer or HR on your behalf
• Protect you from retaliation
• Gather evidence and build a strong legal claim
• File complaints with the EEOC or Florida Commission on Human Relations
• Negotiate settlements or pursue litigation when necessary

Importantly, an attorney provides guidance and advocacy during a time when many employees feel isolated and unsure of their rights.

What Compensation May Be Available in a Physical Harassment Case?

Depending on the facts of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Lost wages or benefits
• Emotional distress
• Medical or counseling expenses
• Reinstatement or front pay
• Punitive damages in certain cases
• Attorney’s fees and costs

Every case is different, and outcomes depend on factors such as the severity of the conduct, the employer’s response, and the evidence available. A workplace physical harassment lawyer can help assess what damages may be available in your situation.

Time Limits for Filing a Claim in Florida

Workplace harassment claims are subject to strict deadlines. In many cases, employees must file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Florida Commission on Human Relations within a specific time frame.

Missing these deadlines can prevent you from pursuing your claim entirely. Speaking with a lawyer as early as possible helps ensure that your rights are preserved.

You Do Not Have to Handle This Alone

Physical harassment in the workplace is a serious violation of trust, safety, and dignity. No employee should be forced to endure unwanted physical conduct as the price of keeping a job. If you are questioning whether what you experienced was harassment, that uncertainty alone is a sign that it’s time to speak with someone who understands the law.

A workplace physical harassment lawyer can help you regain control, understand your options, and take informed steps forward — whether that means resolving the issue internally or pursuing formal legal action.

How Cruz Law Firm Can Help

Cruz Law Firm, P.A. represents employees throughout Florida in workplace harassment and employment law matters. Our firm understands how intimidating it can be to come forward, especially when your livelihood is at stake. We are committed to protecting employees who have been subjected to physical harassment, sexual harassment, retaliation, and other unlawful workplace conduct.

If you believe your rights have been violated, we can help you understand your options and advocate for the outcome you deserve.