The laws of South Dakota define sexual harassment as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including actions of either a verbal or physical nature. Some forms 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, Mitchell employers can be required to create 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 process for handling such claims, and the corrective measures for when a claim is proven.

The laws of the state of South Dakota and federal law have both established agencies with the authority to investigate sexual harassment claims. These agencies conduct investigations at a given Mitchell work site in order to verify if a complaint that they have received is true or not. Furthermore, under these laws, employers may not fire or retaliate against any employee who has alleged sexual harassment in a claim.

How can a South Dakota attorney help?

Investigating and showing a sexual harassment claim might be difficult without consulting someone with expertise in the relevant laws. Federal investigators are often extremely overworked. With that in mind, you should consider speaking with an attorney in Mitchell, as this may be the ideal way to ensure that your claim is filed before the deadlines set by the laws of South Dakota.