Legal Question in Employment Law in Florida

Hostile Work Environment? Sexual harrassment only or does it include verbal and

I began working at a small veterinary clinic about 6 weeks ago. The veterinarian is extremely particular about the way he wants things to be done, and when one of us (there are 4 women in all that work with me at this clinic) does not do something they way he wants he becomes verbally and sometimes physically abusive. He curses and yells, and will insult your intelligence and often throw or hit something from a nearby countertop. That's on a good day. 2 weeks ago, after injecting a Rottweiler with a Rabies vaccine, he became frustrated with a toddler in the front waiting room and threw the used syringe at the other assistant. It bounced off the toe of her shoe. I have trouble restraining some of the animals we treat (I responded to an ad for a receptionist, they said they'd train me and I needed a job, so I have no experience with animals and they know that), and in order to correct my hold on the animal the vet will forcibly grab my arm and move it to the position in wants it in. I'm all for constructive criticism, but I currently have 4 finger and thumb print size bruises on my arms. I don't want to work with a man like this, but I can't afford to quit either. Do I have any rights? Should I take pics of the bruises?


Asked on 7/30/04, 7:32 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jeffrey Sheldon

Re: Hostile Work Environment? Sexual harrassment only or does it include verbal

This isn't a sexual harassment case, but rather a case of assault and battery and possibly intentional infliction of emotional distress. You could file criminal charges (though it's not serious yet) and also sue for civil damages, but your damages are fortunately not very extensive. So a lawsuit is probably too expensive and time-consuming.

It sounds like the doctor has a serious problem (psychological or otherwise). I doubt that even talking to him would help (unless there is a partner of his or someone else you could speak with). It sounds like you need to find another job asap and just get away from him. I suppose if all the employees were willing to band together and tell him he has to change or they will all quit or sue, perhaps that would help. Though I doubt it. It's a near impossible situation and he is likely to become defensive and even fire people rather than admit his problem.

In the very least, the next time he touches you, pull away and tell him that is inappropriate and unacceptable. Do not be a victim. You certainly have a right to stand up for yourself, even if it costs you your job. (You could collect unemployment if he fires you.)

Good luck.

Jeff Sheldon

Jeffrey L. Sheldon, Esquire

The Sheldon Law Firm

17804 St. Lucia Isle Drive

Tampa, FL 33647

813.986.7580

(f) 813.986.7489

(Admitted in Fl., MD, D.C., and Pa.)

[email protected]

http://www.SheldonLawFirm.com

Disclaimer: This posting does not and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It is not confidential, nor is it privileged, and it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please consult with an attorney for advice specific to the facts of your case.

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Answered on 7/30/04, 10:07 am


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