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 Bennington 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 Bennington workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. 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 Vermont attorney help?
It can be difficult to both investigate and prove a sexual harassment claim without having any expertise in the applicable areas of law. It's not uncommon for federal investigators to be too busy to handle individual claims. Because of this, working with a Bennington attorney might be the best way to make sure that your claim is processed in a timely manner.
