What is Sexual Harassment under Alaska Law?
Alaska law defines sexual harassment as any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, whether they are verbal advances or physical action. Some types of sexual harassment that are most commonly committed by an employer include exchanging favoritism for sexual favors, the creation of a hostile work environment of a sexual nature, and sexual advances.
How does Alaska Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, employers who are located in Unalaska can be required to create and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. Matters covered by such policies should include contact information used by employees to report incidents, handling procedures for claims, and corrective measures (in the event that a claim turns out to be true).
There are also federal and Alaska laws that have created agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Unalaska workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Employers are also prohibited under these laws from taking action in retaliation against an employee who has claimed sexual harassment, such as firing them or denying them a promotion.
How can a Alaska attorney help?
Investigating and proving a sexual harassment claim might be difficult without consulting someone with expertise in the relevant laws. Federal investigators are often very overworked. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Unalaska might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Alaska for sexual harassment matters.
