What is Sexual Harassment under Washington Law?
The law of the state of Washington 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 Washington Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, employers in Bellingham 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 Washington 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 Bellingham 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 Washington 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 fairly common for federal officials who investigate these matters to be overworked. Therefore, hiring an attorney in Bellingham can be the safest way to file your claim within the deadlines for sexual harassment claims that Washington has defined.
Find a a Bellingham Lawyer that Specializes in Your Area of Need:
There are 58 Civil Rights & Discrimination cases posted in Bellingham
Cases Posted to LegalMatch listed by ZIP Code:Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Other Washington Cities
Life in Bellingham
Bellingham is located in Whatcom County, Washington. Per the 2010 census, Washington has 80,885 residents. Bellingham is surrounded by Fairhaven, Whatcom, and Sehome.Bellingham is home to many wonderful attractions. Popular sites include the Whatcom Museum of History and Art, the Bellingham Railway Museum, the American Museum of Radio and Electricity, Whatcom Falls Park, Mount Baker Ski Area, Salish Sea, and North Lookout Mountain.
Although the city is known for its small-town charm, top employers include PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center, Haggen, Sodexo, Bellingham School District, Sterling Health Plans and Fred Meyer. The legal industry too has a presence in Bellingham via many small law firms and law offices. These entities provide legal services to residents in practically all areas of law, with competent attorneys overseeing each and every case.
Famous celebrities who have, at one time or another, called Bellingham home include Billy Burke, Hilary Swank, Ryan Stiles, Ken Stringfellow and Jon Auer.
