The workplace can often be tense and the dynamics between employees and employers can even become volatile at times. A common concern for employees is if it is legal or illegal for their employer to yell at them. While shouting in the workplace can have a negative effect on the working environment, it is not inherently unlawful. Whether or not your boss breaks the law depends on several factors unique to the situation. An Atlanta hostile work environment attorney can help you understand your rights as an employee and guide you through any legal process resulting from an incident.
Is it Illegal For an Employer to Yell at their Employee?
Yelling is allowed in the workplace, legally speaking. Employers do not break the law when they raise their voice at an employee. However, it is important to note that if the yelling turns into harassment they can be held legally accountable.
What is Workplace Harassment?
It is important to distinguish between an isolated incident of your boss raising their voice at you out of frustration and a pattern of abusive behavior that constitutes harassment.
Harassment in the workplace is illegal under the Civil Rights Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and the Americans with Disability Act. Under these laws, you cannot be harassed at work based on:
- Race
- Color
- Ethnicity
- National origin
- Religion
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
- Pregnancy
- Age
- Disability
- Genetic information
The above and more are protected classes of people. You cannot be harassed based on any of these characteristics or as retaliation because of a report you made.
If your boss yells at you it may not feel very good and can be embarrassing. However, they are not doing anything illegal unless the yelling turns to comments about any of the above-listed characteristics, contains offensive language or threats, or creates such an environment that you cannot complete your work.
What Should I Do if I’m Facing Workplace Harassment?
If you are facing harassment in the workplace you have several options. You must file a report with the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) or the EED (Equal Employment Division). This must be completed before you are legally permitted to file a lawsuit against your employer. If you decide to take legal action you need the help of a skilled attorney.
Contact an employment attorney to discuss your situation. They will evaluate the details of the circumstances and help you understand whether or not you have a case. They can guide you through the process and ensure you understand your rights. There may also be deadlines to meet and your lawyer will make sure you do not miss out on any opportunities.
Reach out to a skilled attorney to discuss your case and obtain experienced legal representation. It is important to protect yourself and your rights in the workplace.
