What is Sexual Harassment under Oklahoma Law?
Sexual harassment is defined under Oklahoma law as unwelcome conduct that is of a sexual nature, which includes both verbal and physical actions. Common examples of sexual harassment done by employers include making sexual advances, creating an overtly sexual and offensive work environment, and making demands for sexual favors as a condition to promotion.
How does Oklahoma Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First of all, employers in the city of Bartlesville may be required to establish company policies with regards to sexual harassment and post these in a visible location so that employees may be informed. 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 Oklahoma laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Bartlesville 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 Oklahoma attorney help?
Without expertise in the applicable laws, both investigating and proving a sexual harassment claim can be difficult. It's not uncommon for federal investigators to be too busy to handle individual claims. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Bartlesville might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Oklahoma for sexual harassment matters.
