Even The Odds In Your Fight For Employee Rights
Photo of American flag for Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labour Day

Sexual Orientation Harassment Attorney

Last updated on November 29, 2023

Rainbow Flags

Although members of sexual minorities – gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender – are not explicitly protected from workplace discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation under state or federal law, both the Florida Commission on Human Relations and the federal courts have shown some willingness to protect people from harassment on the basis of sexual orientation in the workplace.

To learn about your rights if you have experienced this problem on the job, contact a knowledgeable workplace rights attorney at the Law Office of William M. Julien, P.A.

Do You Have Legal Recourse For Workplace Harassment Based On Sexual Orientation?

In a national survey presented at a conference in Orlando in 2002, 10% of gay and lesbian workers reported discriminatory treatment in hiring or termination, but 40% reported harassment at work. Florida law is unclear as to whether gay or lesbian employees are protected from workplace harassment, but depending on the circumstances, a claim for damages can be presented and won. The case would be strengthened if the company’s own policies prohibited harassment on the basis of sexual orientation and then failed to enforce or apply its own procedures for investigating or correcting the problem.

Presently, there are no explicit protections under federal law for individuals who experience harassment at work based on their sexual orientation. However, such individuals may be able to make a claim under a different category that is protected. There are local ordinances in Miami Beach, Palm Beach, Broward County and Orange County that may provide additional protection.

Sexual harassment cases involving same-sex predatory or exploitative conduct on the part of a supervisor, manager or co-worker are more likely to support a successful claim against the employer. When serious cases of sexual harassment cross the line into stalking, intimidation or workplace violence, courts can also be expected to support the rights of the victimized worker upon the presentation of strong evidence.

Don’t Quit Your Job Over Harassment

Employees in Florida often experience hostile working environments as a result of their race, gender or sexual orientation. They endure severe harassment or recurring or pervasive behavior that forces them to quit or suffer through the treatment to keep their job.

At the Law Office of William M. Julien, P.A., in Boynton Beach, we focus our practice on protecting the rights of all employees to fair treatment on the job. We also assist those who have faced employer retaliation, including wrongful termination or demotion, for reporting such harassment. With over 29 years of experience handling only employee claims, our attorneys know the law and can offer advice on your specific situation and the legal recourse options available.

Discuss Your Rights And Legal Options With An Attorney For Free

If you are suffering from workplace harassment as a result of your sexual orientation, our attorneys at the Law Office of William M. Julien, P.A., can help. Call 561-560-5597 or send us an email to schedule a free consultation with an experienced workplace rights lawyer.