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, Pierre 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. Company polices might include such matters as contact information to be used in reporting sexual harassment, filing procedures, and remedial measures in the event that a claim is proven to be true.
There are also federal and South Dakota laws that have created agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Pierre workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. These laws also prohibit employers from firing workers or taking any retaliatory action against workers who have complained of sexual harassment.
How can a South Dakota attorney help?
It can be difficult to both investigate and prove a sexual harassment claim without having any expertise in the applicable areas of law. The federal officers who investigate claims of sexual harrassment are, unfortunatly, often too busy to give much attention to any one claim. With that in mind, you should consider speaking with an attorney in Pierre, as this might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed before the deadlines set by the laws of South Dakota.
