I was assaulted at work. My boss did nothing.
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I was assaulted at work. My boss did nothing.
I was recently threatened bodily harm by a customer at my retail job. The
following day at work, a woman who bore a striking resemblance to the
woman from the prior day, cornered me with her shopping cart. She shoved
me, and then elbowed me twice in the ribs. Both incidents were reported to
management. Both times management did nothing. The second time the told
me to go back to work. I no longer feel safe at work or in the parking lot. Do I
have any legal rights?
Asked on May 25, 2019 under Employment Labor Law, Washington
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 5 years ago | Contributor
Your employer is not responsible for a criminal act committed against you just because you are at work. However, your "attacker" can be held liable for criminal assault and battery. If you had any injuries and related medical expenses, you can also sue her for personal injury in civil court.
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 5 years ago | Contributor
Your employer is neither your legal guardian nor the police: it has no legal obligation or duty to protect you from customers and you have no recourse against your employer. You can press charges against your attacker, and sue her for any injuries or costs she caused you.
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