What is Sexual Harassment under Vermont Law?
The law of the state of Vermont defines sexual harassment as conduct that is unwelcome, and encompasses both physical and verbal advances. The types of sexual harassment that are most common when done by an employer are sexual advances, the exchange of workplace favoritism for sexual favors, and the creation of a hostile work environment that is overly sexual.
How does Vermont Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, employers in Barre are often required to implement company policies regarding sexual conduct, which must be posted and visible to employees. 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 Vermont laws that have created agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Barre workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Such laws also make it illegal for employers to fire an employee for filing a harassment claim or to take any other action based on retaliation against the employee.
How can a Vermont attorney help?
A claim for sexual harassment may be difficult to investigate and prove without the proper expertise in the relevant areas of law. It's fairly common for federal officials who investigate these matters to be overworked. Because of this, working with a Barre attorney might be the best way to make sure that your claim is processed in a timely manner.
