The law of the state of Washington defines sexual harassment as conduct that is unwelcome, and encompasses both physical and verbal advances. The forms 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 who are located in Spokane County can be required to formulate and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. Such policies should include items such as contact information for reporting harassment incidents, process for filing claims, and any corrective or preventative measures should a claim be proven.

Washington and federal laws established agencies that process claims involving sexual harassment. They have the authority to investigate Spokane County workplaces regarding the conduct alleged in the complaints that have been filed with them. Also, under these laws, employers may not fire or retaliate against any employee who has alleged sexual harassment in a claim.

How can a Washington attorney help?

Without expertise in the applicable laws, both investigating and proving a sexual harassment claim can be difficult. The federal officers who investigate claims of sexual harassment are, unfortunately, frequently too busy to give much attention to any one claim. So, hiring a Spokane County lawyer can be the surest way to file your sexual harassment claim within the deadlines specified by the state of Washington.