What is Sexual Harassment under West Virginia Law?
The law of the state of West Virginia defines sexual harassment as conduct that is unwelcome, and encompasses both physical and verbal advances. Some types of sexual harassment that are most commonly committed by an employer include exchanging favoritism for sexual favors, the creation of a hostile work environment of a sexual nature, and sexual advances.
How does West Virginia Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, South Charleston employers may be required to formulate company policies concerning sexual conduct and post them for employees to see. The policies should at least include: contact information for the reporting of sexual harassment incidents, an outline of procedures to be followed in filing a claim, and the remedies available when a claim successfully proven.
There are also agencies which are created by federal and West 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 South Charleston 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 West Virginia 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. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are often understaffed and overworked. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in South Charleston might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by West Virginia for sexual harassment matters.
