In the realm of digital entertainment and reality TV employee rights are increasingly becoming blurred. Caroline Manzo of Bravo’s Real Housewives of New Jersey has enlisted legal representation by Derek Smith in her sexual assault case against Brandi Glanville & Bravo Media. Smith was interviewed by the NY Times to provide his expertise on the matter noting “Have fun, say crazy things…But outrageous, outlandish behavior should never ever include illegal behavior.”
Caroline Manzo claims that Bravo created an unsafe working environment, and she was sexually assaulted on set when Ms. Glanville “groped, grabbed, and forcibly fondled” Ms. Manzo’s breast and vagina.
What is Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault encompasses any form of sexual activity or contact that occurs without the explicit consent of the victim. It includes a range of behaviors such as rape, non-consensual sexual touching, forcing a victim to perform sexual acts, and sexual manipulation. The undeniable feelings of personal violation fueled by unwanted physical touch are not only physical; the embarrassment and anxiety can have lasting emotional and psychological effects leading to trauma and distress. Perpetrators aim to undermine and intimidate their victims, leaving them feeling disempowered and threatened.
Examples of Sexual Assault
- Rape or attempted rape
- Fondling or unwanted sexual touching
- Forcing a victim to perform sexual acts
- Unwanted vaginal, anal or oral sexual intercourse
- Being exposed to sexual behavior, such as forced nudity, sexual taunts, or pornography
- Child sexual abuse, such as pressuring, exposing, or contacting a child’s genitals, or using a child for pornography
Advocating For Victims of Sexual Harassment & Assault in the Workplace for Over 25 Years
Attorney Derek Smith is motivated by advocating for victims who have been personally violated by their employer or by other occurrences. Derek has recovered over $400 million in damages on behalf of clients.
His unique approach of personability, empathy, and knowledge gives a leverage that has awarded him recognition as the Labor and Employment Litigation Best Lawyer. Smith has also achieved the Largest Emotional Distress Award ever upheld in the USA, in an employment case, and receives a perfect 10.0 Avvo Lawyer Rating.
Attorney Smith states, “We believe this case is about the network’s selfishly sacrificing the wellbeing of their talent for ratings and profit. Brandi Glanville stated she was simply doing what the producers told her to do. Reality TV is leading to severe emotional and physical harm of its talent. This must stop.”
Attorney Smith has advocated for the rights of employees in New York City, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Miami, and Los Angeles for over 25 years!
Free Consultation with Experienced Employment Lawyers for Sexual Assault
Often, individuals may not fully recognize the injustices that they’ve experienced, or are unsure about what constitutes as Sexual Assault. Our trusted legal team is here to help, treating each case with knowledge and confidentiality.
The Derek Smith Law Firm offers free complementary consultations for sexual assault and all harassment, discrimination and employee related rights.
Call today to speak with an attorney at (800) 807-2209. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t pay unless we win your case.
