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, Hendersonville 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. Matters covered by such policies should include contact information used by employees to report incidents, handling procedures for claims, and corrective measures (in the event that a claim turns out to be true).
There are also agencies which are created by federal and Tennessee 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 Hendersonville 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 Tennessee attorney help?
A claim for sexual harassment may be difficult to investigate and prove without the proper expertise in the relevant 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. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Hendersonville might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Tennessee for sexual harassment matters.
