Filing Deadlines in Tampa Sexual Harassment Cases: Sexual Assault vs Sexual Harassment
For Tampa workers who have faced sexual harassment at work, it is normal to wonder what the difference is between sexual harassment and sexual assault. In addition, some Tampa sexual assault victims may wonder how much time they have to bring a case for sexual harassment they have experienced at work, and how much time they have to take legal action against their employer. Many people have heard that victims of sexual assault in Tampa, and throughout the United States, have years to file a claim, but the reality is that workplace sexual harassment follows a very different set of rules. Indeed, importantly, the deadlines for reporting and filing sexual harassment cases can be surprisingly short, and missing this window can mean losing your right to pursue compensation or accountability altogether. Understanding the difference between these two types of cases is key to protecting your rights.
Sexual Harassment vs. Sexual Assault in Tampa: Which Laws Apply to Workplace Sexual Harassment Cases?
Sexual assault and sexual harassment both involve unwanted sexual conduct, but they are legally distinct. Sexual assault is a criminal offense under Florida law, involving unwanted physical contact or sexual acts without consent. These cases are handled through the criminal justice system and can also support a separate civil lawsuit for damages. Sexual harassment, by contrast, is a form of discrimination prohibited under both federal and state employment laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Florida Civil Rights Act. It involves unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile or abusive work environment. Harassment under Florida and federal laws can include comments, gestures, texts, or even persistent unwanted attention.
Filing Deadlines in Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Cases
Because these claims arise under different areas of law, Tampa workers need to know that the filing deadlines also differ. In sexual assault cases, brought under criminal law, Florida’s statute of limitations depends on the specific offense and the age of the victim. However, in workplace sexual harassment cases, the deadlines are much shorter. To preserve your rights under federal law, you typically must file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 300 days of the harassment. State law statute of limitations also may apply. After those deadlines pass, your claim may be permanently barred, even if you have a strong case. As such, it is always important to speak with an experienced Tampa sexual harassment lawyer as soon as possible if you are experiencing sexual harassment at work.
Finding Legal Help in Tampa
No Tampa worker should ever have to choose between their safety and their career. If you are in the Tampa area and you need legal help with your workplace sexual harassment case, do not wait to get legal advice. The experienced Tampa sexual harassment lawyers at the law firm Florin Gray are here to help Tampa workers get justice. Contact Florin Gray today and speak with a lawyer about your case now.
