What is Sexual Harassment under South Carolina Law?
The laws of South Carolina define sexual harassment as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including acts of either a verbal or physical nature. Some types of sexual harassment that are most commonly committed by an employer include exchanging favoritism for sexual favors, the creation of a hostile work environment of a sexual nature, and sexual advances.
How does South Carolina Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, employers who are located in Hilton Head Island can be required to create and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. 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 South Carolina laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Hilton Head Island 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 South Carolina 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 harrassment are, unfortunatly, often too busy to give much attention to any one claim. So, hiring a Hilton Head Island lawyer can be the surest way to file your sexual harassment claim within the deadlines specified by the state of South Carolina.
