Sexual harassment is defined under New York law as unwelcome conduct that is of a sexual nature, which includes both verbal and physical actions. Employers are most often involved in the following types of sexual harassment acts: demanding sexual favors in exchange for promotions, creating a sexually offensive work environment, and making sexual advances.

How does New York Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, Niagara County employers can be required to establish company policies that specifically address sexual harassment in the workplace. These must be posted in a visible area such as a break room. These policies may include contact information for an employee to report sexual harassment, the procedure for handling such claims, and the corrective measures for when a claim is proven.

Additionally, federal and New York laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Niagara County to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. Also, under these laws, employers may not fire or retaliate against any employee who has alleged sexual harassment in a claim.

How can a New York attorney help?

Without expertise in the applicable laws, both investigating and proving a sexual harassment claim can be difficult. The federal officers who investigate claims of sexual harassment are, unfortunately, often too busy to give much attention to any one claim. So, hiring a Niagara County lawyer can be the surest way to file your sexual harassment claim within the deadlines specified by the state of New York.