Unwanted Sexual Favors in the Workplace

When a manager, executive, or supervisor offers a promotion, raise, or better assignments in exchange for sexual acts—or threatens your job for refusing—they are violating both federal and Florida law.

At Kaplan Employment Law, our sexual harassment lawyers in Weston, FL fight for employees who have faced unwanted sexual demands at work and hold employers accountable when they fail to stop this abuse. We take on big corporations — and win.

If you’ve been pressured for sexual favors or punished for refusing, let’s talk.

What Is Harassment for Unwanted Sexual Favors in the Workplace?

Being asked for sexual favors in exchange for job benefits is illegal workplace harassment. It’s a serious abuse of power that can leave employees feeling trapped, humiliated, and fearful of retaliation.

Kaplan Employment Law holds corporations accountable when:

• A boss or manager demands sexual favors for a promotion, raise, or better assignments.
• A supervisor threatens termination, demotion, or retaliation for refusing advances.
• Employees who comply receive unfair advantages over those who don’t.

Under Florida law, employers are legally required to prevent and stop workplace harassment. If they fail to act, they can be held responsible with the help of a Florida sexual harassment attorney.

Examples of Sexual Harassment Involving Unwanted Favors

Sexual harassment tied to exchanges for favors often involves situations where an employee feels pressured to comply with inappropriate demands to secure or maintain their position. Here are some common examples:

Demanding Sexual Favors for Career Advancement

• A manager promises a raise or promotion in return for a sexual relationship.
• A boss offers better assignments or work conditions in exchange for intimate favors.

Threats of Retaliation for Refusing Sexual Advances

• An executive warns that refusing will hurt your job security or career.
• A supervisor cuts your hours, gives you a bad performance review, or isolates you at work after you say no.

Creating a Culture of Tolerance for Harassment

• Employees who comply with advances get promoted, while those who refuse face retaliation.
• Complaints are ignored or dismissed by HR and upper management.

If any of these situations sound familiar, you may have a case. Kaplan Employment Law fights to hold employers accountable for sexual harassment and hostile work environments.

How to Prove Sexual Harassment Involving Unwanted Favors

Proving that sexual favors were demanded in exchange for job benefits or avoiding punishment requires collecting evidence that demonstrates inappropriate behavior and its connection to your employment situation.

Evidence You Need to Build a Claim for Sexual Harassment in Florida

Key evidence to support a sexual harassment claim includes:

• Emails or Messages: Save texts, emails, or notes that document inappropriate requests or conversations.
• Performance Records: Keep reviews or feedback that show sudden negative treatment after refusing advances.
• Witness Statements: Testimony from coworkers who observed the harassment or experienced similar treatment.
• Incident Notes: Document dates, times, and details of any interactions involving harassment.

In addition, coworkers who observed inappropriate behavior or noticed patterns of favoritism can provide valuable testimony to corroborate your claims and strengthen your case.

Establishing a Link Between Harassment and Employment Actions

To build a strong case, it’s crucial to show that job benefits or consequences were directly tied to compliance or refusal. This might involve proving a pattern where only employees who complied with inappropriate requests received promotions or favorable treatment.

What Compensation Can You Recover in a Sexual Harassment Case?

Victims of workplace harassment have the right to seek compensation for the harm they’ve suffered.

Emotional Distress Damages

Sexual harassment can cause significant emotional harm, including anxiety, depression, and humiliation. Compensation for these psychological impacts is often available.

Back Pay and Lost Wages

If harassment led to demotion, termination, or forced resignation, you may recover lost wages, including back pay and future earnings.

Punitive Damages

Employers who engage in or enable harassment may be ordered to pay punitive damages as a penalty for their behavior.

Legal Fees

Successful claims often include reimbursement for legal expenses, ensuring victims are not financially burdened for pursuing justice.

At Kaplan Employment Law, we work tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation available and hold employers accountable for their actions.