In Pennsylvania, there are a number of laws that guard against harassment in public spaces along with the workplace. Not one law protects against harassment but many. Most noteworthy, however, is the fact that these laws are actually criminal law statutes. Therefore, all crimes must be reported to the police and dealt with in the criminal court. Pennsylvania’s commonwealth believes in protecting the rights of the people, to interact in daily living activities without fear of harassment.
Harassment Law
A few laws criminalize different types of harassment. Most importantly, if you have experienced harassment in your workplace, contact a lawyer.
Disorderly Conduct (Title 18, Chapter 55 § 5503)
Often considered verbal harassment, disorderly conduct is illegal. If someone is doing anything of the following, you can request legal action against them.
unreasonable noise
obscene language or gestures
threatening violent behavior or being violent
creating a hazard by an action with no legitimate purpose
Harassment (Title 18, Chapter 27 § 2709)
Workplace harassment or workplace bullying are uncomfortably common. These actions are inappropriate and should be subject to law.
stalking someone in a public place
attempting violent physical content or threatening to do so
committing actions that have no reason
communicating any threatening or obscene words or drawings
Indecent Assault (Title 18, Chapter 31 § 3126)
Sexual assault, whether in public or in the workplace, should never be overlooked. Forcing anyone to do an action that they did not consent to is indecent and illegal.
indecent contact
force someone to have indecent contact
intentionally making someone come in contact with seminal fluid, feces, or urine
any type of sexual touch (grabbing butt, breasts, or crotch) in a public place
What Does Harassment Law Do For Victims Of Harassment?
In the court of law, harassment cases are judged on a scale of summary offense to misdemeanor to felony charges. Generally, first time offenders receive a summary offense or misdemeanor charge. However, if someone accused of harassment has previous charges of harassment, he or she usually is charged with a felony.
In some cases, you can request restraining orders. The restraining order demands that the accused harasser keeps a certain physical distance away from you as well as not contact you. A broken restraining order can end with criminal charges.
If you want to explore your options for suing for harassment, contact a lawyer.
Types of Harassment
Unfortunately, harassment is not an isolated action. Often times, harassment comes in many forms before becoming the most violent of physical abuse. Therefore, it’s important to recognize harassment in the beginning and speak out against it.
If you come in contact with any of the following types of harassment, contact a lawyer.
Domestic Violence
physically causing bodily harm
sexual assault
threats
stalking, disturbing the peace, harassing
Elder of Dependent Adult Abuse
neglect or financial abuse of an elder
physical violence
deprivation of care for physical or mental needs
Civil Harassment
violence, assault or stalking
threats of future violence
threats or violence for no reason
Workplace Violence
harassment or physical abuse that happens at work
threat of violence in the workplace
Dealing with harassment in the workplace or in public is not only frustrating but a violation of your feeling of safety. Any type of action that threatens or makes you feel intimidated can be considered harassment. If you have experienced harassment, speak up, not only for you but for every other victim of harassment.
If you have experienced workplace harassment, contact us.
Don’t hesitate, talk to an attorney: (412) 626-5626 or lawyer@lawkm.com.
