Unwanted Sexual Advances and the Law
When does sexual harassment become a legal issue? Can an off-handed joke create a civil court lawsuit? When it comes to forms of harassment such as unwanted sexual harassment, the lines are a little clearer when it comes to what is acceptable and what is not. Every person should be aware of the legal implications of unwanted sexual advances so they can identify and stop harassment.
What Are Unwanted Sexual Advances?
Generally, unwanted sexual advances are forms of contact where an aggressor persistently requests sexual favors from a victim. The advances can come in many forms ranging from subtle innuendo up to direct requests. The advances become unwanted when the victim makes it clear that consent is not going to be given.
Are Unwanted Sexual Advances Against The Law?
Unwanted sexual advances are a form of sexual harassment that is identified as unlawful in the Civil Rights Act of 1964. While advances are generally not considered criminal, they can be considered a violation of the victim’s civil rights.
When an aggressor makes an unwanted sexual advances but then backs off when he is told that consent will not be given, then most courts would not find any violations in those actions. But persistent unwanted advances generally can lead to legal problems for the aggressor.
How Are Unwanted Sexual Advances Handled?
Most companies have clearly defined policies regarding sexual harassment and ways for employees to make complaints against aggressors. When your sexual harassment event occurs in the workplace, you are encouraged to collect as much information as you can and file a complaint with your human resources department. You, your supervisor, and your company’s human resources department should then work together to find a solution.
When The Company Will Not Help
If your company will not follow up on your complaint, then you can choose to seek legal solutions in civil court. You should hire an experienced attorney and follow your attorney’s advice for bringing closure to your case. Generally, the end result will be a financial settlement with the company and possibly the aggressor.
Our firm can help you to pursue legal action if you are the victim of unwanted sexual advances. Our experienced sexual harassment lawyers can answer all of your questions and put together a case that will represent your side of the story. We will also work hard to get you the maximum available compensation for your situation.