Sexual harassment is defined by North Dakota 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 Dakota Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, Fargo employers can be required to formulate company policies that specifically address sexual harassment in the workplace. These must be posted in a visible area such as a break room. 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 successful).

There are also federal and North Dakota laws that have established agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Fargo workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. These laws also prohibit employers from firing employees or taking any retaliatory action against workers who have complained of sexual harassment.

How can a North Dakota 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 frequently understaffed and overworked. Thus, hiring an attorney in Fargo can be the safest way to file your claim within the deadlines for sexual harassment claims that North Dakota has defined.