Verbal harassment is a form of abuse that results in emotional and psychological harm. Have you felt enraged or shaken after a heated argument, not because of the disagreement but because the words felt like a personal attack? It is considered verbal harassment if you have been called names, publicly humiliated, or threatened.
Whether it happens at work, in school, in public, or online, verbal harassment creates toxic environments. Some individuals subjected to such attacks experience reduced self-esteem, leading to depression or anxiety. In specific cases, verbal harassment also violates Minnesota state laws. Recognize that you have legal rights, and defined steps exist to stop verbal harassment.
This guide will help you understand how to identify verbal harassment and what legal protections are available.
Key Components of Verbal Harassment
Verbal harassment is a specific set of behaviors designed to harm individuals emotionally, psychologically, and even professionally.
What Does Verbal Harassment Mean?
Verbal harassment is defined as using speech or communication to intimidate, degrade, or threaten another person. It can range from offensive jokes to direct threats. Legally, verbal harassment protection is covered under anti-discrimination and workplace harassment laws. But, in everyday terms, verbal harassment includes insults, slurs, threats, or persistent criticism that makes you feel unsafe or disrespected.
Forms of Verbal Harassment
There are five main types of verbal harassment:
- Insults & Name-Calling – Personal attacks on your appearance, intelligence, or abilities.
- Threats & Intimidations – Statements that make you fear for your safety or well-being.
- Slurs & Discriminatory Language – Speech targeting your race, gender, religion, or other constitutionally protected characteristics.
- Gaslighting – Manipulative language that makes you doubt your perceptions or sanity.
- Workplace Verbal Abuse – Yelling, public humiliation, or constant criticism from your colleagues or supervisors.
Is Verbal Harassment Protected by Free Speech?
No, verbal harassment is not protected under free speech laws. Free speech is a constitutional right, but threats, discrimination, and workplace hostility are not protected legally. For example, a manager making offensive racial comments can be held accountable under anti-discrimination laws.
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Legal Aspects of Verbal Harassment
Understanding the legal frameworks around verbal harassment is essential for protecting your rights. Federal, state, and local laws provide avenues for addressing this behavior, especially in the workplace.
Verbal Harassment Laws: Things You Must Know
Three key federal laws protect individuals from verbal harassment.
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Prohibits workplace discrimination, including harassment based on race, gender, religion, and more.
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Protects employees from harassment and discrimination based on disability status.
- State and Local Anti-Discrimination Laws: Many states have additional protections beyond federal law, covering workplace harassment and public discrimination.
Is Verbal Harassment a Crime?
Verbal harassment is grounds for incurring legal consequences in three specific situations.
- Threats of Violence: When it involves threats of harm.
- Defamation: When false statements damage your reputation.
- Workplace Harassment: When it violates anti-discrimination laws.
Reporting Verbal Harassment: Steps to Take
Taking action against verbal harassment involves documenting incidents and following proper reporting procedures.
Document the Case
- Record the dates, times, and witnesses of each incident.
- Save emails, messages, or voicemails when legally permitted.
- Note emotional and professional impact.
Report the Behavior
- Workplace Cases: Report to HR or a supervisor in writing.
- School or Public Harassment: Notify school officials or law enforcement.
- Online Harassment: Use platform reporting tools or contact authorities if threats are involved.
File a Formal Complaint
- Workplace harassment cases can be reported to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
- State labor boards handle additional workplace protections.
- Criminal threats should be reported to law enforcement.
Seek Legal Advice
- An experienced attorney assesses your case and guides you through legal options.
- Law firms like Madia Law LLC specialize in workplace harassment cases.
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Verbal Harassment in the Workplace
Workplace verbal harassment harms mental health, reduces job performance, and limits career progression.
The Impact of Verbal Harassment on Employees
Verbal harassment often exacerbates adverse mental health conditions such as anxiety and PTSD. It can also harm job performance, leading to absenteeism, decreased productivity, and stalled career growth. Employees facing verbal abuse also often feel undervalued and fearful at work.
The Mental Health and Workplace Consequences of Verbal Harassment
Verbal harassment can cause:
- Anxiety & Depression – Constant verbal abuse can trigger mental health disorders.
- Absenteeism – Increased time off due to workplace stress.
- Job Performance Decline – Fear of retaliation can impact productivity.
Signs and Examples of Verbal Harassment in the Workplace
The red flags of verbal harassment include:
- Public humiliation or constant criticism.
- Yelling, intimidation, or belittling comments.
- Offensive jokes targeting an individual or group.
- Persistent negative remarks about race, gender, or disability.
Employer Responsibilities to Prevent Verbal Harassment
Employers are legally obligated to provide a harassment-free workplace. This includes:
- Implementing clear anti-harassment policies.
- Establishing proper confidential reporting procedures for complaints.
- Providing training programs to prevent workplace hostility.
Can Employers Be Held Liable for Verbal Harassment?
Yes, employers can be held legally responsible if they fail to address harassment complaints. The company can face lawsuits if HR dismisses complaints or retaliates against the victim.
Best Practices for Preventing Verbal Harassment in the Workplace
Effective proactive strategies for preventing verbal harassment in the workplace include:
- Conducting regular anti-harassment training.
- Establishing clear disciplinary actions for offenders.
- Encouraging open communication between employees and management.
Report Verbal Harassment Without Facing Retaliation
Retaliation for reporting verbal harassment is illegal. The EEOC protects employees from being fired, demoted, or mistreated after filing complaints. If retaliation occurs:
- Document incidents of retaliation.
- Report directly to legal authorities.
- Consult an attorney for further action.
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What Damages Could I Receive for Verbal Harassment at Work?
You are entitled to compensation for lost wages, medical costs, and even punitive damages if your case meets certain legal criteria.
Pay Back & Benefits
If you can prove your employer’s failure to address the harassment cost you wages, bonuses, or career advancement, you will recover:
- Lost wages from wrongful termination or forced resignation.
- Unpaid bonuses or commissions you were denied due to harassment.
- Reinstatement, if you were unfairly let go or forced to leave.
Medical & Counseling Fees
If you’ve needed therapy, medication, or other treatments due to workplace harassment, you will be eligible for compensation covering:
- Therapy and counseling costs to address emotional distress.
- Medical expenses related to stress-induced health conditions.
- Psychiatric treatment if the harassment led to severe anxiety or depression.
Punitive Damages
In severe cases, you will receive punitive damages if:
- Your employer knowingly allowed a hostile work environment.
- HR ignored or dismissed multiple complaints.
- The harassment was extreme and had serious consequences.
How Can Madia Law LLC’s Lawyer Help You
If you have been subjected to verbal harassment, qualified legal support is available to assist you in crafting a case. Our experienced attorneys at Madia Law LLC offer:
Expert Legal Guidance and Advice
Our attorneys provide strategic, case-specific legal guidance to help you understand your options and the best course of action. We will:
- Assess whether your case qualifies under Minnesota workplace harassment laws.
- Explain your rights in clear, simple terms.
- Advise you on the best legal steps to take, whether that’s negotiating with your employer, filing an EEOC complaint, or pursuing a lawsuit.
Empathetic Support Throughout the Process
We prioritize compassionate, client-centered representation, ensuring that you feel catered to and supported along every step of the way. Our team will:
- Listen to your experience and concerns with care and respect.
- Guide you through each stage of the legal process so you never feel lost.
- Offer reassurance and advocacy to stand up against your employer or harasser.
Maximizing Compensation and Handling Negotiations
Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who fight to get you the best possible outcome, whether through settlement or litigation. We work to:
- Recover lost wages, missed promotions, and job reinstatement.
- Secure compensation for emotional distress and medical expenses.
- Hold employers accountable through punitive damages when appropriate.
FAQs for Verbal Harassment
Can I sue for verbal harassment at work?
Yes, you can sue for verbal harassment at work if it violates workplace harassment laws.
What should I do if my employer ignores my verbal harassment complaint?
File a complaint with the EEOC or a state labor board if your employer ignores your verbal harassment complaint.
Can I be fired for reporting verbal harassment?
No, you cannot be fired for reporting verbal harassment, as retaliation is illegal under federal law.
What should I do if I’ve experienced verbal harassment in public?
You should report the incident to local authorities and seek legal advice if you have experienced verbal harassment in public.
Does verbal harassment have to be repeated to be illegal?
No, verbal harassment does not always have to be repeated to be illegal. One severe incident can be enough if it creates a hostile environment.
What’s the difference between verbal harassment and workplace bullying?
Verbal harassment is legally defined, often involving protected characterstics (race, gender, disability), while bullying is not always illegal.
Take Action Against Verbal Harassment – Get a Case Review with Madia Law LLC Today
Verbal harassment is not something you have to endure. Whether it’s happening at work, in public, or online, you deserve to be heard and protected. If your employer has ignored your complaint or if harassment has affected your career and well-being, take action today.
Contact Madia Law LLC for case evaluation and fight for your rights.
Call 612-349-2729 or complete a Case Evaluation form
