What is Sexual Harassment under North Carolina Law?
Sexual harassment is defined under North Carolina law as unwelcome conduct that is of a sexual nature, which includes both verbal and physical actions. The types of sexual harassment that are most common when done by an employer are sexual advances, the exchange of workplace favoritism for sexual favors, and the creation of a hostile work environment that is overly sexual.
How does North Carolina Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First of all, employers in the city of Durham may be required to establish company policies with regards to sexual harassment and post these in a visible location so that employees may be informed. 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.
Additionally, federal and North Carolina laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Durham to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. Also, these laws prohibit employers from firing an employee for alleging sexual harassment or taking any action in retaliation to a claim.
How can a North Carolina attorney help?
If you do not have any expertise in the applicable laws, it may be difficult to investigate and prove a claim involving sexual harassment. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are often understaffed and overworked. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Durham might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by North Carolina for sexual harassment matters.
