What is Sexual Harassment under North Dakota Law?
Sexual harassment is defined under North Dakota 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 Dakota Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, Grand Forks 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. 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 North Dakota laws that have created agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Grand Forks 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 North Dakota 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 Grand Forks might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by North Dakota for sexual harassment matters.
