What is Sexual Harassment under Virginia Law?
The laws of Virginia define sexual harassment as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including acts of either a verbal or physical nature. Common examples of sexual harassment done by employers include making sexual advances, creating an overtly sexual and offensive work environment, and making demands for sexual favors as a condition to promotion.
How does Virginia Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, employers in Chesapeake are often required to implement company policies regarding sexual conduct, which must be posted and visible to employees. 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 Virginia 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 Chesapeake are true. These laws also prohibit employers from firing workers or taking any retaliatory action against workers who have complained of sexual harassment.
How can a Virginia attorney help?
Without expertise in the applicable laws, both investigating and proving a sexual harassment claim can be difficult. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are often understaffed and overworked. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Chesapeake might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Virginia for sexual harassment matters.
