What is Sexual Harassment under Arkansas Law?
Arkansas 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 Arkansas Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, West Memphis employers can be required to implement company policies that specifically address sexual harassment in the workplace. These must be posted in a visible area such as a break room. Company polices might include such matters as contact information to be used in reporting sexual harassment, filing procedures, and remedial measures in the event that a claim is proven to be true.
There are also federal and Arkansas laws that have created agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a West Memphis workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Such laws also make it illegal for employers to fire an employee for filing a harassment claim or to take any other action based on retaliation against the employee.
How can a Arkansas attorney help?
It can be difficult to both investigate and prove a sexual harassment claim without having any expertise in the applicable areas of law. Federal investigators are often very overworked. Because of this, working with a West Memphis attorney might be the best way to make sure that your claim is processed in a timely manner.
