Is There A Harassment Law?

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.