Legal Question in Employment Law in Florida
Supervisor Being Mean to Co-Workers
There are a couple co-workers at work who are constantly ''badgered'' by our supervisor.
1) The one girl is slow at learning (but she is getting it) and the supervisor is constanly degrading her, joking and implying that she is ''retarded,'' ''stupid,'' and being just plain mean and laughing about it. It has to be humiliating and I have a feeling that my co-worker is going to snap and do something bad. I would love to give her some legal advice to use as ammo without using her fist!
2) The other co-worker is bi-lingual and she has trouble with her English sometimes, she is also a slow learner (but she's doing good) The supervisor constantly ''nit-picks'' at her about EVERY little thing she does and also degrades her about her English skills.
Any help with either of these ladies would help tremendously, I hate to see this happen to them, I am afraid to say something in their behalf for fear that she will start on me.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Supervisor Being Mean to Co-Workers
If the supervisor is a different race, sex or even age than the people being harassed, there may be a claim for a hostile environment and harassment based on those elements. (In other words, sexual harassment, hostile racial environment, etc.)
The people affected should check the company's policy on harassment and make a formal complaint to HR or whatever authority is listed. If there is no policy or authority listed, the problem should be brought to the attention of senior management. It should be done in a factual manner without accusations or belligerence. It should also be made clear that there should be no retaliation from the supervisor (which would be illegal) or legal action might ensue.
Also, if it is a race, sex or age discrimination issue, then the enployees can file a free complaint with the EEOC or a local human rights commission.
Once a complaint is made, though, you have to expect the worst - even discharge. Unfortunately, companies often become defensive and lash out rather than address the problem.
I hope that helps.
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.)
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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