Although sexual abuse primarily occurs in domestic settings such as someone’s home, a significant number of incidents occur in organizational or professional settings including one’s place of employment. Research suggests there has been a growing number of reports of sexual misconduct in the work place, specifically relating to sexual assault or abuse, leading to the realization that it is indeed a major social problem.
Despite this revelation, some cases of sexual misconduct in corporate settings are often disregarded, as some may not be viewed as criminal acts, or are believed to be “less severe,” as they can often be indirect and subtle. This may therefore cause confusion on the part of the victim, who may question the intent of the act, or how their concerns may be perceived by others despite their negative experience.
Here at the Fitch Law Firm, we understand that any form of sexual misconduct at work can have significant lasting effects on victims, both in and outside the walls of the workplace, regardless of how others view that misconduct. Our seasoned professionals recognize that some advances may be minimized by the perpetrator or even the organization to prevent you from speaking up. You don’t have to be silent. Our compassionate and experienced team has successfully handled sexual abuse and misconduct cases, and we are committed to seeking justice on your behalf.
If you have been a victim of sexual misconduct while at work, you may be entitled to compensation. We will review the facts of your case and see how we can help. Call 855-LAW-OHIO today to for a free consultation.
Workplace sexual misconduct victims need to take action
Some of the main reasons victims of workplace sexual misconduct are reluctant to take action are due to being intimidated, manipulated into thinking it was a misunderstanding, being told it is simply “not a big deal” or being unaware that they are being violated and it’s unlawful.
Our Columbus personal injury lawyers are experienced in this area and can provide the help and legal advice you need.
Sexual misconduct in the workplace may include:
- Sexual assault
- Sexual harassment
- Stalking
The most common form of sexual misconduct at work is sexual harassment. This involves:
- Any unwelcome or unwanted sexual touching of the victim (including fondling, rape or sexual assault)
- Any written, verbal or electronic form of communication that is sexual in nature, which may cause one to experience feelings of fear, intimidation, violation or concern for personal safety.
Some advances may include threats to terminate employment or withhold promotions if requests are not met, being called offensive names, asked inappropriate questions about body parts and sex life, or inappropriate and unwanted sexual suggestions. Research showing the pervasiveness of sexual harassment in the workplace, and its impact on victims, indicates that apart from the negative psychological effects, workplace harassment is also an infringement on the employee’s rights, creates a hostile work environment for the victims and may result in impaired work performance, or even termination.
Let the Fitch Law Firm fight for your rights
If you believe you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual abuse at work call us at 855-LAW-OHIO today or visit our website to find out how we can help. If we take your case, we will use our extensive experience and knowledge to help you get the compensation you need and deserve.
The Last Thing You Should Worry About Is How You’re Going To Pay For Your Medical Bills.
(614) 545-3930 Sexual Abuse by Professionals
Sexual misconduct and abuse in organizational settings is not limited to unwanted or unwelcome sexual advances from a boss or coworker. They can also come from the professionals we go to for help, such as therapists, psychiatrists or even a physician. At The Fitch Law Firm, we understand that such deliberate misuse of power and violation of trust by these professionals often results in negative emotional and psychological effects on the part of the victim. We also realize that this could impact the victim’s ability to seek or accept help from other professionals in the future, such as refusal to see a doctor or forfeiting treatment.
The experienced professionals at The Fitch Law Firm understand that victims are deeply impacted by such exploitation and violation of trust, and we will aggressively seek justice on your behalf. Our attorney John Fitch strongly believes in upholding integrity and justice, and he will aggressively fight to hold the perpetrators responsible.
If you have been sexually abused by a trusted professional whose job was to help, you may be entitled to compensation. You need an experienced attorney to investigate your case and fight for your rights.
Call us today at 855-LAW-OHIO today for a free consultation.
It’s not your fault
When we seek the help of professionals, we let our guards down and trust them to do just that — help. We expect they will provide the assistance we need, offer their expert advice and prevent harm. We don’t expect them to betray our trust, exploit our vulnerabilities, violate their professional boundaries, abuse their power and manipulate or cause us harm. Unfortunately, professionals who sexually abuse their clients or patients do just those things, which often results in psychological and emotional problems that can significantly impact the victim’s life.
Some of the most common instances of sexual abuse by professionals take place among healthcare providers, as there are a growing number of reports of healthcare professionals, including physicians, psychiatrists and therapists, sexually abusing patients. This, however, is not limited to healthcare providers, as there have been instances in several other areas. Unfortunately sexual abuse in such cases likely has been under-reported, as victims are often intimidated and may even fear the possibility no one will believe their story.
Professionals may commit or try to cover up sexual abuse in the following ways:
- Nonconsensual touching or rubbing
- Claim sexual acts as part of examination or treatment
- Sexual assault/rape
- May tell patients/clients their questions or concerns about the abusive behavior are simple misunderstandings
- Try to keep patient from reporting abuse by giving money, gifts or access to prescription drugs
- Try to convince patients loved ones that they are can be trusted
- Threaten to stop treatment or harm patient if they report abuse
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Don’t Be Silent!
At The Fitch Law Firm we understand that abuse from trusted professionals can often result in self-blame and shame. Unfortunately, these act as significant hurdles for survivors to take action and begin the healing process. With the help of our understanding and compassionate professionals, you can hold these perpetrators and the organizations that support them accountable. Our attorney John Fitch represents victims of sexual abuse throughout Ohio, and has successfully fought for justice on behalf of victims for three decades.
If you have been a victim of sexual abuse by a trusted professional, call us today at 855-LAW-OHIO for a free consultation.