Sexual harassment is defined by North Carolina law as unwelcome conduct that is of a sexual nature, which includes both verbal and physical actions. The forms 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, Polk County employers can be required to create company policies that specifically address sexual harassment in the workplace. These must be posted in a visible area such as a break room. Such policies should include items such as contact information for reporting harassment incidents, process for filing claims, and any corrective or preventative measures should a claim be proven.

There are also federal and North Carolina laws that have formed agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Polk County workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Such laws also make it illegal for employers to dismiss an employee for filing a harassment claim or to take any other action based on retaliation against the employee.

How can a North Carolina attorney help?

A claim for sexual harassment may be difficult to investigate and show without the proper expertise in the relevant areas of law. It's fairly common for federal officials who investigate these issues to be overworked. Therefore, hiring a Polk County lawyer can be the surest way to file your sexual harassment claim within the deadlines specified by the state of North Carolina.