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, St. Albans 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 St. Albans are true. 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 West Virginia attorney help?
Without expertise in the applicable laws, both investigating and proving a sexual harassment claim can be difficult. It's fairly common for federal officials who investigate these matters to be overworked. Because of this, working with a St. Albans attorney might be the best way to make sure that your claim is processed in a timely manner.
