What is Sexual Harassment under South Dakota Law?
The laws of South Dakota 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 Dakota Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, Huron 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. 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.
There are also agencies which are created by federal and South Dakota law for the specific purpose of handling sexual harassment cases. Such agencies have the authority to investigate work sites to determine if the complaints they receive in Huron 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 Dakota 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 Huron might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by South Dakota for sexual harassment matters.
