What is Sexual Harassment under Tennessee Law?
The laws of Tennessee 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 Tennessee Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, Bartlett 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 Tennessee laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Bartlett 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 Tennessee 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 not uncommon for federal investigators to be too busy to handle individual claims. Therefore, hiring an attorney in Bartlett can be the safest way to file your claim within the deadlines for sexual harassment claims that Tennessee has defined.
