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, Watertown 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.
Additionally, federal and South Dakota laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Watertown to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. Also, these laws prohibit employers from firing an employee for alleging sexual harassment or taking any action in retaliation to a claim.
How can a South Dakota attorney help?
If you do not have any expertise in the applicable laws, it may be difficult to investigate and prove a claim involving sexual harassment. It's fairly common for federal officials who investigate these matters to be overworked. Therefore, hiring an attorney in Watertown can be the safest way to file your claim within the deadlines for sexual harassment claims that South Dakota has defined.
