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, Minot 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).
Additionally, federal and North Dakota laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Minot to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. 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?
If you do not have any expertise in the applicable laws, it may be difficult to investigate and prove a claim involving sexual harassment. Federal investigators are often very overworked. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Minot might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by North Dakota for sexual harassment matters.
